It takes time — and training — to understand another country’s culture and ways of doing business. But here are some easy tips that can help the U.S. traveler going to Mexico.

For U.S. Americans traveling to Mexico

Be aware that the day follows a “Mexican” schedule …

• Most Mexico City businesses open around 9:00 a.m. (government offices between 8:30 and 10:00 a.m.) and close between 5-7 p.m. on weekdays. Meetings can be scheduled for 7:30 pm. In the interior of the county, most things are done earlier.

• The Mexican meal known as “comida” (between 2:00-4:00 p.m.) is more equivalent in size and importance to the U.S. dinner than the U.S. lunch. It can last longer if there is good conversation, drinks and desserts. Comparing the comida to the U.S. lunch misses the point of its Mexican context and social function. Alcoholic drinks can be part of the meal.

• Mexicans generally split the day into two parts, before and after comida, so morning and afternoon are not strictly tied to the clock. When someone mentions “en la tarde” (this afternoon), it generally means anytime after comida, and before it’s dark.

• Most businesses and government offices close during comida time and telephones are not answered. In cities where traffic is not a problem, people go home to eat comida with their family. Mid-and lower-level workers have a shorter comida time and they usually eat at the company’s cafeteria.

• Many upper- and mid-level managers work until 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. People on time cards are not expected to do so.

• There is more social time in the Mexican work schedule. People keep building relationships as they get the job done.

Be aware that the dress code is different, too …

• In the business world, most Mexicans are very formal and suits are expected even in hot weather (with the exception of some coastal and northern Mexican states in the summer, when temperatures are above 100 degrees Fahrenheit). Informal days for men may mean wearing a jacket without tie, polo shirts and khakis. Brand names and European designs are admired.

• Women are expected to look feminine, which means make-up and high-heels.

• Shorts should only be worn for sports of for casual leisure by the beach or pool.

Be aware that some manners that work in the U.S. might not work here …

• The person making the sale or the one who made the invitation pays the bill for the meal.

• Splitting bills or collecting money from people to put the whole amount on your credit card is very unusual and may be considered tacky.

TIPS

Summary of Most Common Challenges for
Americans and Mexicans Working Together

Cultural Traits	Meaning in Mexico	Meaning in the United States
Time	*Time is relative; schedules and plans are adaptable * Less relative in areas or northern Mexico	Time consciousness is imperative; deadlines and commitments are firm
Business Relationships	*Focus on the human side in order to accomplish the task; build trust and kinship * Less necessary in northern Mexico	Human interaction is brief, focus is on the task; avoid interruptions and distractions
Communication	Indirect, contextual, diplomatic and physical; “Yes” and “No” are not absolutes	Direct verbal and written statements Focus is on the content (facts, numbers, and explicit meanings); “Yes” or “No” are absolutes
Hierarchy, Status, & Social Class	*Hierarchical systems and deference to authority; upper management is responsible for most decision-making; social classes are obvious *Currently changing	Equality and egalitarianism are the preferred social modes, even within a hierarchy; decision-making is distributed at different levels; most Americans see themselves as members of an egalitarian middle-class

NOTE: Other challenging aspects are: Negotiation styles, marketing, management styles such as direction/delegation, team building, competition, training and development, staffing, planning, loyalty, motivation, control, and women working in Mexico.

© 2001 Miranda-Johnston Cross-Cultural