In Algeria, it is important in business to build trust and rapport in personal relationships. One thing that stands out is the fact that Algerians do not put a lot of personal space between them when they are speaking. Visitors to Algeria should never back away if someone stands close to them or holds onto their arms.
Keeping an honorable reputation is important to Algerians. They will even go so far as to tell people what they think the others want to hear even when it is not the truth as they feel this protects their good names. Always keep this in mind during communication with Algerians. You do not want to be the cause of them losing face. There is no other place on earth that the saying “You scratch my back and I will scratch yours” is truer than Algeria. Doing favors for each other is a popular concept.
When it comes to business meetings, it is necessary to make appointments and make them as far ahead of time as possible. Also, confirm any scheduled meetings a day or 2 prior. Do not schedule meetings during Ramadan, and keep in mind that Fridays are the Muslim holiday so most companies are not in operation then. Do your best to arrive for the meetings on time and be ready to wait. Algerian businesses that are used to international companies will try to be on time. However, it is sometimes hard for them to do this.
Generally speaking, Algerians practice an open door policy that does not exclude meetings. So you need to be ready for frequent interruptions. Other people may even come in and start talking about something different in the middle of your meeting. You are free to participate but do not change the topic back to your business until that person leaves.
