Greetings and Social Etiquette

Do: Use Formal Titles
Ecuadorians place great importance on respect and formality in their social interactions. When meeting someone for the first time, it’s crucial to address them using appropriate titles such as “Señor” or “Señora” followed by their surname. This formality is particularly appreciated among the older generation.

Don’t: Be Too Casual Initially
Avoid using first names until the individual invites you to. Jumping too quickly to a first-name basis can be seen as a lack of respect. Observing how they introduce themselves can often provide a clue about how they prefer to be addressed.

Do: Engage in Light Physical Contact
When greeting someone, it is common to engage in a light kiss on the cheek (usually one kiss on the right cheek). This applies predominantly between women and from men to women. Handshakes are also widely used, especially between men, accompanied by direct eye contact, which conveys trust and sincerity.

Don’t: Shy Away from Small Talk
Ecuadorians are generally friendly and expect a certain level of cordiality during interactions. It’s polite to engage in small talk before diving into business or more serious topics. Asking about family, the weather, or local events can help in building rapport.

Dining Etiquette

Do: Follow the Host’s Lead
When invited to an Ecuadorian home, observe and follow the host’s actions. For instance, it is customary to wait for the host to indicate where you should sit and to not start eating until the host does.

Don’t: Refuse Food
Refusing food can sometimes be considered rude, as meals are a significant aspect of Ecuadorian hospitality. If you have dietary restrictions, it’s polite to explain them, but always try to accept small portions to acknowledge the effort made by the host.

Do: Offer to Help with the Meal
Offering assistance with setting or clearing the table is appreciated and can be seen as a gesture of gratitude towards your host for their hospitality.

Don’t: Rush the Meal
Meals are social occasions and are often prolonged. Rushing through your food or appearing hurried can be perceived as impolite. Enjoy the conversation and the company.

Dress Code and Appearance

Do: Dress Conservatively
In general, Ecuadorians take pride in their appearance and dress relatively conservatively, especially in the highlands. For business and formal events, suits and formal wear are advisable. In coastal areas, while the dress code might be more relaxed, neatness is always key.

Don’t: Overlook Local Sensitivities
It’s important to respect religious and cultural sensitivities, particularly in smaller, more traditional towns. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing as it can be frowned upon.

Business Etiquette

Do: Be Punctual
Time is valued in business settings. Being punctual shows respect for your Ecuadorian counterparts. However, be prepared for meetings to start a bit later than scheduled, as local practices may slightly differ.

Don’t: Hard Sell
In Ecuador, business relationships are often built on trust and personal connections over time. Hard selling can be seen as aggressive and might be counterproductive. Focus on building relationships and understanding your counterparts’ needs.

Do: Exchange Business Cards
Exchanging business cards is a common practice and should be done with both hands if possible. Take a moment to look at the card before putting it away as a sign of respect for the information given.

Don’t: Expect Immediate Decisions
Business decisions in Ecuador can take time. Patience is vital, and pushing too hard for an immediate decision can be seen as disrespectful.

Understanding and Respecting Cultural Norms

Do: Learn the Language
While many Ecuadorians speak English, particularly in business circles, learning some Spanish can go a long way in showing respect and willingness to integrate into the local culture.

Don’t: Ignore Local Traditions and Holidays
Ecuador has a rich tapestry of traditions and celebrations. Participating in or acknowledging these cultural activities can enhance your experience and acceptance as an expat.

Do: Be Aware of Political Sensitivities
Politics can be a sensitive subject in Ecuador. It’s wise to avoid political discussions unless you are very familiar with the person and their views.

Don’t: Overlook Environmental Considerations
Ecuadorians are proud of their country’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Being environmentally conscious and respecting local regulations regarding wildlife and nature preserves is crucial.

Living in Ecuador as an expat can be a rewarding and enriching experience. By understanding and respecting the local customs and etiquette, expats can better integrate into the community and enjoy a harmonious life in this beautiful South American country.