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.
Advice from some Mexican executives |
- ”Please do not come to tell us what
we already know. What we need is investment.”
- ”Do not assume we are so backwards. Some Americans think
we don’t even have refrigerators.”
- ”In order to understand our needs, we need to talk, to
get to know one another’s concerns. Open up, build rapport,
do not think you know it all.”
- ”Read between the lines, it is hard to spell out everything….
”
© 2001 Miranda-Johnston
Cross-Cultural
rmj@mjcrosscultural.com
|
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