Santiago City Guide - Business Etiquette

Financial life in Santiago remains formal both in dress code and conduct. In a business environment, usted, the polite Spanish form of address, should be used instead of the more familiar tu. Failure to observe this linguistic etiquette could be construed as disrespectful or even arrogant. Some Chilean executives speak reasonably competent English but any attempt to use Spanish, however faltering, will be greatly appreciated.

Like their counterparts in North America and Europe, members of Chile's business community make good use of the working lunch. Meanwhile, Santiago's international hotels have benefited in recent years from the increased popularity of the ‘business breakfast'. Chileans are generally very hospitable and it is not unknown for foreign business travellers to be invited to dinner at home.

Chile generally follows the North American model of the working day, from 0900-1800 Monday to Friday, although Chilean business workers are known for working long hours.