A number of professional customs in Trinidad are similar to those in the U.S.
The Trinidadian economy continues to advance in the areas of telecommunications and natural gas, which means that professionals from other countries often express interest in doing business with individuals in Trinidad. To ensure that your company makes a great first impression and builds a lasting relationship with Trinidadian professionals, employ some basic rules of business etiquette.
Business Attire
When doing business in Trinidad, it's appropriate for a man to wear a conservative business suit. For more casual meetings, or in warmer weather, wearing a shirt and tie with tailored pants is acceptable. Women can also wear business suits, but should make sure that the outfit is especially conservative, i.e. skirts that are just at the knee or below, or suits that are not form-fitting.
Business Cards and Professional Titles
Similar to U.S. professionals, businesspeople in Trinidad do not have a specific method for handing out business cards in a meeting. However, treat the card from a Trinidadian with respect; refrain from turning the card, shoving it in your pocket, or writing on the printed side of the card.
As far as professional titles go, Trinidadian professionals prefer that you refer to them as Mr., Mrs., or Ms. Once a business relationship is established, Trinidadians may invite you to use first names.
Business Meetings
Businesspeople in Trinidad follow an American or English standard for business meetings. They exchange pleasantries for a short period of time, but prefer to 'get down to business' right away. Show up on time for business meetings in Trinidad; when running late or experiencing a scheduling conflict, proper etiquette suggests you notify the coordinator of the meeting immediately to reschedule.
Negotiations
The final decision for negotiations usually does not take long in Trinidad. In most cases, there is no time in the meeting for bargaining, and negotiation terms will be determined based on the information presented in the meeting. However, it is not considered rude to request time for additional bargaining. International colleagues may continue 'shopping around' for an acceptable offer, but this should be done with discretion.
Giving Gifts
While it is not a requirement to give gifts to Trinidadian professionals, presents are welcomed--as long as they are not too personal. Gifts that contain company emblems are appropriate, and in some cases, it is acceptable to give items such as a quality bottle of wine if attending a business dinner. Gifts are opened in private--international professionals should adhere to this custom if given a present in Trinidad.
