Bahamas

Acceptable Public Behavior

  • Most hotels and casinos require jackets for men in the evening, especially in Nassau and Freeport/Lucaya.
  • Beach clothing is inappropriate on the streets. Away from the beach or pool area you are expected to cover your bathing suit with shorts or a long shirt. In the more laid-back remote areas, the dress code is more flexible.
  • Bahamians greet people with a proper British “good morning, good afternoon, or good evening”.
  • When approaching an islander to ask directions or information, preface your request with a greeting such as, “how are you?” smile, and don’t rush into conversation.
  • Humor is a wonderful way to relate to the islanders, but don’t force it.
  • Don’t try to talk their dialect unless you are adept at it. (This takes long exposure to the culture).

Business Attire

  • Islanders wear suits and typical business attire for work and meetings, so don’t be tempted to wear resort dress to an office atmosphere.

Conversations and Networking

  • Handshakes, business card swapping, and other protocol is the same as in the US.

Meetings, Presentations, and Negotiation Tactics

  • Business in the Bahamas is conducted very much like it is in the United States.

  • Meetings are usually held in office conference rooms, and occasionally at a local restaurant for lunch.

Dinner Etiquette

  • The Bahamian refresher of choice is coconut water blended with sweet milk and gin.
  • Most restaurants require jackets for the men in the evening, beach clothing is not acceptable.
  • If you’re out for a business lunch, the person who does the inviting pays or everyone pays their own tab.
  • Tip according to quality of service, usually 15%, many restaurants include gratuity on the bill

Other

  • Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas.

Sources

A summary of this information can be found at Bahama Host.
For more information go to:
http://workabroad.monster.com