Business practices:
There are cultural differences between indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians or Fiji-Indians (ie. Fiji citizens of Indian origin). Most business people are Indo-Fijians, although there is a growing presence of Indigenous Fijians in business.
Business dress is informal. Normal attire for men is long trousers with an open-neck, short sleeve shirt. For more formal business meetings, for example with a Government Minister, a tie might be worn, normally with a short sleeve shirt. Suits and jackets are seldom required.
Mannerisms of which you need to be aware include:
Standing with hands on hips is seen as an expression of anger or arrogance.
Indigenous Fijians do not like to be touched on the head - it is a traditional taboo.
Pointing to a person while talking to them is generally considered rude.
Most business people prefer to be called by their first name, rather then using Mr/Mrs (surname). It is a normal practice to use titles in formal correspondence. Certain indigenous Fijians have the title Ratu (for men) or Adi (pronounced ÎAn-deeÌ, for women), meaning that they are of chiefly status. The title should always be used with their first name when addressing them.
Culturally, the Fijian people are very polite and respectful. You will find that they are hesitant to ask for clarifications or ask questions, thinking they could be seen as being rude or offensive. Therefore, it is important to develop a good rapport and discuss issues thoroughly to ensure that both parties interpret each other correctly. When discussing business with Fijian people note that ÎyesÌ doesn't always mean, ÎI agree with youÌ - it could mean ÎI understand youÌ.
Fiji Indians can be quite direct and want to know the ÎdealÌ fairly quickly, ie. ÎWhatÌs the price?Ì They are traders by instinct and often base their evaluation on price. So if other aspects of your product are important, such as quality or service, then it pays to emphasise, and if possible, quantify them.
Part of the culture is Fiji time. Timeliness is not strictly observed, however, in recent years, this has become less apparent. Meetings and appointments may not start on time - delays of 10-15 minutes are quite normal. Guests invited to trade displays or seminars often arrive up to half an hour late.
It is not unusual to be offered a bowl of yagona or kava. Kava is often referred to as the national drink and is offered to visitors on special occasions. We suggest that you accept the first bowl offered so as not to cause offence and then politely decline should you not wish to drink anymore.
Alcohol is consumed in the business community and red wine seems to be becoming more common. Spirits are commonly consumed at business gatherings.
The exchange of gifts is not a widely accepted Fijian business practice. On occasions as a gesture of friendship, one may be presented with gift but it does not necessarily mean that you have to respond likewise.
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me!!! says: | 2010-02-19 00:01:17 |
| hello good work | ||
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8====D~ says: | 2011-02-25 20:04:06 |
| good | ||
Comments: 2