Learning about the Ecuadorian business environment requires plenty of business experience and the assistance of a trusted local partner. If you are unsure of how to navigate the local business environment in Ecuador, then check out our shortcut on business etiquette in Ecuador below. We outline the 9 key takeaways on how to do business in Ecuador.
Table of Contents
1. Take on an Ecuadorian Partner
Deciding to partner with an Ecuadorian can teach you a lot about Ecuadorian culture. The Ecuadorian perspective can help tremendously when making decisions for your business.
2. Don’t Rush Hiring
Hiring employees in Ecuador can be tough. You might hire people that make strong first impressions but then find out their work ethic and abilities didn’t live up to expectations. To find the right employees, ensure you have a well-planned recruitment strategy.
3. Patience is Key
Meetings will start late and deadlines will be missed. Your Ecuadorian partner can provide invaluable counsel on time-related issues, which falls under the broader heading of “cultural differences.”
4. Prepare to Get Paid at The Last Minute
In Ecuador, it is common for people not to pay their internet bill until their service gets cut off. This is perfectly normal behaviour and shows you how financial obligations are viewed in Ecuador.
5. Expect the Unexpected
Prepare for anything that could go wrong when doing business in Ecuador. Be patient, roll with the punches to the extent that you can, and have someone you trust to deal with the bureaucratic headaches along the way.
6. Get a Legal Representative With Cedula
If you don’t have a ‘cedula’ (identity card), find someone who does as all companies in Ecuador require a legal representative. This person will be the ‘legal face’ of the company, and as such be accountable for things such as paperwork and tax liabilities.
7. Find an Attorney That Speaks English
It is strongly recommended that you hire an attorney who speaks English if you do not speak Spanish. In all things legal, it is critical that you understand the issues that affect your business.
8. Choose the right legal structure
9. Understand responsibilities towards employees
Make the Most of Business Opportunities in Ecuador
Although doing business in Ecuador might be different from doing business in your home country, you shouldn’t let it keep you from taking advantage of all the business opportunities available in Ecuador.
If you would like to pull the trigger on your Ecuadorian business goals, Biz Latin Hub has a group of experts that can offer you tailored and personalized services to help execute your business plan in Ecuador. Contact us now to get the professional expertise you need to start and grow a successful business in Ecuador.
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