Ghana business etiquette

Ghanaians tend to stick to tradition in both their personal and business lives. Making a good first impression is important to building relationships in the African country's business environment, and showing respect and consideration is highly valued by Ghanaians.

Hierarchy

Hierarchy is important in Ghana, with the richest or most experienced at the top, as well as those in more senior or senior positions.

The oldest member is usually shown the most respect and may receive special treatment. Such people also usually make important decisions. Therefore, when doing business with Ghana, it is advisable to contact someone who has the authority to make decisions for their company. Once a decision has been made, you will be redirected to the department/person with whom you will continue to communicate.

Meetings

Meetings should always begin with a handshake with the senior participant. After this, you should shake hands with those sitting to your right and walk to those on your left. Handshakes are always done with the right hand.

Before the meeting officially begins, your business partners may want to exchange pleasantries with you to get to know you better. These questions are usually about your health and family, and so as not to seem rude, you should also ask about their health and family.

Business cards play an important role in Ghana, so when meeting potential business partners, make sure you have enough of them. As with shaking hands, always receive and give business cards with your right hand.

Make sure you are punctual in meetings to make a good impression, although your Ghanaian business partners are often late.

Once the meeting begins, allow the oldest and most senior employees to sit first and, if possible, politely offer them a seat.

Communication rules

Keep in mind that Ghanaians do not like a direct approach to business and may find it difficult to say no to business. at meetings. If your business partners don't agree with what you say, they may try to avoid answering directly, or they may try to backtrack with a more polite and sensitive approach. They may also remain silent because Ghanaians believe that during business meetings it is better to remain silent than to disagree in order to save face. Therefore, do not be offended if your questions are not answered, continue the conversation so as not to make a bad impression or cause embarrassment. Also keep in mind that "yes" doesn't always mean they agree with you.

Several meetings may be required before you fully discuss your business plans as Ghanaian business people prefer to do business with those they know and trust, so the first meetings will be about getting to know you. After the meeting is over, be sure to document any agreements or discussions you had to prevent any misunderstandings in the future.

Personal contact is the preferred method of doing business in Ghana. Although Ghanaians are accustomed to communicating via email, telephone or fax, personal contact is the most effective way to build long-term business relationships. Although personal visits to potential business partners may seem like an ineffective way to conduct business, in the long run such courtesies can reap rewards in the form of loyal business contacts.

Clothing

Business attire in Ghana is quite formal. Most Ghanaian businessmen wear business suits/dresses during working hours. Traditional Ghanaian clothing is often worn after work for social events, and some Ghanaian business people wear traditional clothing during the work day, especially on Fridays. Light clothing (whether for business or leisure) is appropriate in Ghana all year round due to the very warm climate and high humidity.

Opening hours

Opening hours in Ghana are usually from 8:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday. At the same time, the working week is generally up to 40 hours with a break of half an hour to an hour during each working day. Any work performed after the normal eight hours per day is considered overtime.