««| Tips for Investing in Imo State

Top Tips on Imo Business Culture

Tip 1
Although many endemic problems remain when trying to develop business in Imo State, many steps have been taken to tackle institutional and corporate corruption - things seem to be moving in the right direction.

Tip 2
Try to do some research on the company you intend to visit before you arrive. Are you dealing with an internationally influenced subsidiary of a global MNC or a locally owned and managed business?

Tip 3
Most local companies will be very hierarchical. Try to get to know the hierarchy of the company at an early stage.

Tip 4
Don't try to get decisions out of middle-managers - they usually can't make them.

Tip 5
Age is worthy of respect in Imo - should your delegation reflect this fact?

Tip 6
Although organisations are hierarchically structured with decisions made at the top, do not ignore lower ranking officials - they may still be highly influential.

Tip 7
Managers are expected to manage. They make decisions and give instructions. A more consensus-style approach might be bewildering.

Tip 8
Managers expect loyalty and compliance in return for which they offer support and help in both business and non-business areas.

Tip 9
It is important to develop good, long-term relationships in Imo. If meetings seem a little informal and non-business focussed, do not worry - the more time spent on relationship-building, the better.

Tip 10
Although punctuality can be very patchy, it is probably best if you show up on time. Be careful to allow enough time to negotiate the traffic.

Tip 11
Try to be patient at all times in Imo - the more you push, the further away the decision might become.

Tip 12
English is very widely spoken in Imo and you are unlikely to meet any internationally-oriented business people or government officials who are not fairly fluent.

Tip 13
Try to address Imolites using their titles (if they have one) as this shows respect to the status of the person.

Tip 14
Remember to shake hands with everybody when you enter a room and go through the obligatory, fairly lengthy introductions with warmth and good grace.

Tip 15
Be aware that Imo people are likely to stand quite close to you. This should not be seen as threatening.

Tip 16
You are unlikely to meet women in senior positions within commercial organisations.

Tip 17
Dress smartly when you go to Imo. Your relative importance may be very largely judged on your appearance.

Tip 18
Try to avoid using your left hand when handing things to people, eating food etc.

Tip 19
A large part of the Imo population are christians.

Tip 20
Take care at all times and never go anywhere with people you do not trust or know quite well.