Egyptian Culture Vs American Culture

756 Words4 Pages

The Egyptian culture is vastly different from American culture. While there are similarities between business practices in both the United States and Egypt, understanding the key differences in how to conduct oneself when negotiating business can be the difference between closing a sale and leaving empty-handed. With this report, the sales and marketing teams of Chevrolet will better understand how to negotiate with Egyptian executives in order get more automobiles into Egyptian dealerships. The report focuses on: (a) how meetings are conducted in Egypt; (b) meeting times; (c) proper Egyptian greetings; (d) group behavior in a meeting; (e) common business hierarchy; (f) proper business attire; and (g) important business communication tips. …show more content…

Egyptians enjoy having a cup of tea and participating in a small talk in order to catch up with old business partners or to get to know a new one. In addition, it is important to remember to respect the Muslim culture. Offending an Egyptian executive is sure fire way to lose business in Egypt.
Another key fact to know and practice when in Egypt is good hygiene. Egyptians typically are clean people and prefer to be around people who are also the same way. Therefore, being clean cut and smelling nice sends a message to an Egyptian that you take pride in your …show more content…

English is a second language to most Egyptians, but they would like to see that someone is attempting to put in the same efforts that they have in order to communicate.
When in a meeting the sale team has to greet the top executive first. There is a hierarchy that Egyptians follow, and it is extremely rude to not follow it. Moreover, never cross your legs during a meeting; it is a sign of disinterest in what is happening around you. In addition, make sure that the sale team is not showing the bottom of their feet because this is seen as highly disrespectful. In Egyptian culture, it is represented that the person is dirty and unwelcome.
Dressing in Egyptians is important, therefore be sure to wear the best suit. As stated above, appearance is big to an Egyptian. How you present yourself is how they view you as a person. However, putting in maximum effort to look your best goes a long way. It can also open doors to future business deals with the same or other businesses.