Introduction: Doing Business in Chile (01:10)

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Chile is an isolated country. This video will use eight sections to examine doing business in Chile—orientation, history, economy, etiquette, business relationships, communicating, negotiating, and management.

Orientation: Small Town Life at Earth's End (03:47)

People in Chile have a unique set of rules for conducting business. The world's longest country has diverse topography and a population of 14 million, largely of European or European/Native Indian descent. Santiago is the focal point of commerce, government, and the arts.

History: Colonists to Communists, Dictators to Entrepreneurs (04:33)

Chile has experienced a variety of governmental rule. Historical facts to remember include the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan, Spanish claim in 1536, the fight for independence, the redistribution of power and wealth, Marxist rule, the governing of Augusto Pinochet, and the return of democracy.

Economy: Rising Star of South America (05:09)

Chile's economy averages a yearly growth of 6%. The country has a high per capita GNP, a large middle class, but a low per capita income. Key industries including mining, agriculture, fishing, light manufacturing, minerals, and metal and wood products; copper accounts for nearly half of all exports.

Etiquette: Politeness, Please (05:26)

Business is more formal than in the U.S. and emphasizes respect and politeness. Image is important; attire should be of high quality and conservative. Learn tips for greeting associates, using titles, using hand gestures, and meetings; bribery is a severe insult.

Business Relationships: Guard Your Reputation (05:52)

Building relationships with the right people is essential for success; bad reputations travel quickly. Learn tips for making contacts, building rapport with associates, and engaging in casual conversation; sensitive topics include religion, politics, and neighboring countries.

Communicating: More Than Words (05:33)

Speaking Spanish is essential for effective business conversations. Ask before speaking English and translate important documents into Spanish. Communication tends to be physical, diplomatic, and based on context. Business women should project a professional image while attempting to accept cultural differences.

Negotiating: Straight as an Arrow (04:02)

Negotiations in Chile can take a long time and be less direct than in the U.S.; intuition and emotion are important. Negotiation teams should include onsite executives; maintain contact with the lead decision maker, and be polite and honest.

Management: Lonely at the Top (05:20)

Chile has a strong labor pool and high literacy rate. Create a sense of family in the workplace to increase loyalty; nepotism is common. Chilean business has an authoritarian management style. Accurate feedback can be a challenge for managers; avoid public criticism.

Credits: Doing Business in Chile (00:56)

Credits: Doing Business in Chile