Initial business meeting with Egyptians are often very formal affairs. They usually begin with coffee and small talk, even in situations where the time is very limited. Eventually, the subject of your meeting will come up, but Egyptians business people are just as hospitable as tourists find other Egyptians. In fact, if the meeting is not limited in time, this can cause some real problems.
When the subject of your specific business does come up, if you have an Egyptian representative with you, a go-between, allow him to explain the major points of your business in Arabic if possible. While Egyptians are renowned linguists and many educated Egyptians speak multiple languages, in a short meeting, your points will be made much more concisely by someone who understands your business and can explain it to an official in his native tongue. Don't be surprised if at some point, voices are somewhat raised, or there even appears to be an argument developing. This is not uncommon when Egyptians discuss matters.
At the conclusion of a successful business meeting, where future business must be discussed or acted upon, make specific arrangements. The old "lets get your people and my people together" is not enough. Very specific appointments, schedules and contact personnel should be arranged, or what seems like a successful meeting may end up drifting into oblivion. In other words, tie the specific progression of events that must take place down to people, places and times. Otherwise, there it is likely that once out of sight, your business might be out of mind...forever.
The Go-Between - Get an Egyptian Representative
How Meetings Work
Social Talk
Appearance
Mannerisms
Titles
Gifts
Business Cards
Tipping
Learn at Least a Few Words of Egyptian Arabic
On Being Patient and Understanding Egyptian Time |
