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GOOD MANNERS

Although Latin-Americans are very friendly, there are certain rules to consider. Here are some tips that will help you feel more comfortable when you are with friends, strangers or in a business meeting.

 

Personal Relationships.

     Generally, the vital space area (that imaginary bubble that surrounds you), is smaller with Latin Americans. In fact, people stand so close to each other when talking that you may feel uncomfortable. Try not to back away.

    Personal contact in the shoulder, arm or lapel is also common so don’t be alarmed.

     Deals are regularly done with an individual, not with a corporation. Business is developed through good individual relationships. Think twice before changing your team because you may need to re-build the relationship from scratch.

     The interest in a business is shown through repeated visits to the company or to your business contact. Plan a lot of follow up and repeated visits.

. Latin Americans are conservatives and proud of their education and they expect you to behave properly based on their standards. If you are in a business meeting, because relationships are done with persons, not companies, your personal image and the impression you cause is extremely important.

It is impolite to yawn, to put the feet on the table or chair (it does not matter that it is your own office), to take off your shoes, to spit or burp (please don’t!!) and to chew gum. 

It is also considered impolite to point at others and to allow a woman to pay the check. It is very rude to throw stuff at the table (for example, documents) instead of giving it on the hand and please,  do not offend or criticize anybody in public. Don't blame when explaining a situation. 

Always ask for things saying "por favor" (please) and thank someone when the task you requested has been completed saying "gracias" (thank you).

Most Latin Americans are not punctual, and some are not just to show their rank and status, but they expect you to be. Don't feel offended. Culturally, time does not have the same value, and time is not always money for them.

Don't wear clothes that are proper for the indians or natives. Definitively it is not the way to be "in". You just need to be honest, kind and respectful of others

Try to keep business conversations out of the table when at lunch or when dining, unless your host starts it.

     Latin Americans don’t say “No” easily to avoid confrontations or offend you, but they may mean it. Here are some under-cover “No’s”

  •  Déjame revisarlo y te aviso  /   Let me check it and I will let you know later.

  •  Luego lo vemos /   We can review it later (and that later never comes)

  •  Si /  It may be a yes that may mean no, but said because of politeness.

    Never twist an arm to get a "yes" that can ruin your relationship or business. Work-out your relationship more and identify the issues that are an obstacle to the deal. 

    It will be your job to analyze the tone and gestures during the conversation. And, just in case, try to get all your agreements in writing.

 

     Latin Americans are open to information, but their personal involvements on issues cause them to take decisions subjectively, and not based on facts or law. It is extremely important to have personal relationships with the right people in the right places.

     Most negotiations are done slowly, and the issues involved are discussed all at the same time, instead of one by one. It may take you several trips and a good relationship to close an agreement. Be patient and kind at all times.

     Once again, remember that personal relationships are extremely important, and they play a crucial role in every deal. Latin Americans deal with people, not with corporations. 

     Avoid politics, both national and international. Latin Americans are sensitive to US sense of superiority, be careful and don’t give that impression if you are from the US.

     Remember that America is the whole continent (From Alaska to the Patagonia) and not only the US, and geographically, North America includes Mexico and Canada. Therefore, you are considered as an "Estadounidense" if you are an American citizen. By the way, the word "gringo", is not offensive.

     It is a good idea to learn some culture and history of the country that you will visit. Try to use your Spanish as well. You will make a good impression and they will appreciate your effort.

     Soccer (or football, as known in Latin America), is the most popular sport and a good topic to start a conversation if you are somehow up to date. 

     To get some meaningful conversation material, click on this Leading Newspapers in Latin America link.