International Guatemala Adoption: the Facts, not the Fiction.
While it is true some unscrupulous American adoption individuals and agencies did cause great harm to children, through dishonesty, cheating, lying, and adversely affected families on both sides of the adoption situation; the majority of American international adoptions were legal, and done with the child’s best interest in mind.
Most Americans do not know what hoops adopting parents jump through to prove to the world they deserved to parent a child let alone an internationally adopted child. They go through more than anyone could ever begin to imagine.
How do I know? My husband and I were one of the families on the tragic end of an unscrupulous American adoption agency owner who ended up in court; was judged by her peers, and found guilty on four felony accounts.(By the grace of GOD we got our abandoned, older age son home - he had spent his life in an orphanage - while, like so many others, we lost another older, abandoned child,through this woman's dastardly deeds.)
The good news is that this former adoption agency owner, can’t open another adoption agency in the USA - ever. The bad news is that this adoption agency owner (like too many others in America) purposely caused great financial hardship to many adoptive families, tried to prevent our already legally adopted child in Guatemala - from coming home, and caused countless sorrow for so many people nation wide.
American adoption agencies run by individuals like her, did indeed cause great harm to children who now will never know a safe, loving, forever home; caused trauma to families in both countries (such trauma - that some families will never be able to over come); and caused the Government of Guatemala to terminate adoptions to the USA, for the forcible future.
But know that countless more effective, reasonable, loving, professional adoption agencies throughout America and around the world, have - and continue to - place needy children in loving homes - just like they did for the Guatemalan orphans. (If you want suggestions of adoption agencies throughout the USA, please contact CirclesOfSeven@gmail, or write to info@CirclesofSeven.com)
All in all…
All in all there was no prejudice from the Guatemalan people at any level - toward Americans coming to adopt their children; nor toward any of the other countries for opening their hearts to embrace these beautiful children.
Remember, Guatemalans love their children. They are a proud and protective people, and we at Circles of Seven(tm) Magazine are proud to have them - in our - Circle of Seven.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Part V: How To Do Business in Guatemala
Lastly,
Communication...
...with the Guatemalan people is simple. Just remember that;
Recognized Core theoretical assumptions, “assumes that human beings in all cultures desire both positive group-based and positive person-based identities in any type of communication situation” (Communicating Across Cultures).
It also states that, "the core dynamics of people group membership - identities, cultural, and ethnic memberships and person identities, are formed via symbolic communication with others.” (We use symbols of language, and behavior we are comfortable with, while assuming everyone we communicate understands our "symbols" to0.)
In the end, to work effectively in Guatemala is simply is a matter of taking time to identify the appropriate nonverbal rules (such as gestures), and understanding the cultural values and attributions of verbal rules - by using culture-sensitive perceptions through mindful focusing (attention to what is going on around us).
This is to make sure we are are correctly interpreting the Guatemalan person we are having an “intercultural communication” (conversation) with.
After all, “Mindful intercultural communication simply emphasizes that the importance of integrating the necessary - intercultural knowledge, motivation and skill - helps us all to communicate satisfactorily, appropriately, and effectively,” (Communicating Across Cultures, pg.41)
To effectively do business – Understand Guatemalans Group Identity
These are people who live life to the fullest, desire deep relationships with one another (and the world in general), and are motivated to "reach out and touch someone."
Not only are they a warm, open, growing, loving nation who want the best for their people; they gave the greatest gift of themselves to the world – their children.
Guatemala has not only a rich Mayan history, it has great potential for the future. All politics a side, Guatemala is trying to find its way into the global economy. It is a land of beauty and back water towns, it is a land of rich culture and religious connection, it is a land full of inspiration,music,and internationally recognized Spanish language schools. It is also a place most Americans have yet to visit.
"Regardless where you travel, Guatemala is full of surprises. Prepare for your trip by reading about your destination, taking logical precautions when you get there, and learning some Spanish. The Guatemalan people are warm and wonderful! Send us a postcard. We'll be waiting!"
Circles of Seven(tm) Magazine - Sept/Oct 2009 article on Traveling to Guatemala
Communication...
...with the Guatemalan people is simple. Just remember that;
Recognized Core theoretical assumptions, “assumes that human beings in all cultures desire both positive group-based and positive person-based identities in any type of communication situation” (Communicating Across Cultures).
It also states that, "the core dynamics of people group membership - identities, cultural, and ethnic memberships and person identities, are formed via symbolic communication with others.” (We use symbols of language, and behavior we are comfortable with, while assuming everyone we communicate understands our "symbols" to0.)
In the end, to work effectively in Guatemala is simply is a matter of taking time to identify the appropriate nonverbal rules (such as gestures), and understanding the cultural values and attributions of verbal rules - by using culture-sensitive perceptions through mindful focusing (attention to what is going on around us).
This is to make sure we are are correctly interpreting the Guatemalan person we are having an “intercultural communication” (conversation) with.
After all, “Mindful intercultural communication simply emphasizes that the importance of integrating the necessary - intercultural knowledge, motivation and skill - helps us all to communicate satisfactorily, appropriately, and effectively,” (Communicating Across Cultures, pg.41)
To effectively do business – Understand Guatemalans Group Identity
These are people who live life to the fullest, desire deep relationships with one another (and the world in general), and are motivated to "reach out and touch someone."
Not only are they a warm, open, growing, loving nation who want the best for their people; they gave the greatest gift of themselves to the world – their children.
Guatemala has not only a rich Mayan history, it has great potential for the future. All politics a side, Guatemala is trying to find its way into the global economy. It is a land of beauty and back water towns, it is a land of rich culture and religious connection, it is a land full of inspiration,music,and internationally recognized Spanish language schools. It is also a place most Americans have yet to visit.
"Regardless where you travel, Guatemala is full of surprises. Prepare for your trip by reading about your destination, taking logical precautions when you get there, and learning some Spanish. The Guatemalan people are warm and wonderful! Send us a postcard. We'll be waiting!"
Circles of Seven(tm) Magazine - Sept/Oct 2009 article on Traveling to Guatemala
Part IV: How to Do Business in Guatemala
Part IV: About Mixing Business and Pleasure…
Business is discussed in an office, or sometimes, over a meal. It is important to remember that, unlike the United States, business is never discussed visiting someone’s home, nor around their family.
Significance of Non-verbal Behavior
Nonverbal behavior has a great impact on people the world over. It’s not just facial expressions and eye contact that tell a story, but our gestures that can get us in inter cultural communication trouble. The following “illustrators” are the nonverbal hand gestures that are used to compliment (or illustrate) the spoken world.
General Overview: What we communicate to others…
Be aware of American Hand Gestures
It is easy to assume that every day socially accepted USA gestures, such as the OKAY sign, (thumb and fore finger making a circle) translate equally to Guatemala society. Not so. In Guatemala this sign is considered, “obscene.” Be sure not to make this sign.
The US “thumbs up” (closed fist, thumb pointing in the air) is also, very, “obscene.” (It is the equivalent of our “middle finger.”) This is another big, No, No.
Guatemala Hand Gestures
Guatemalans have gestures uncommon to us in the US as well. Generally speaking when a Guatemalan wants to call someone over to them, they will extend their arm out (palm side down) and make sort of a sort of scooping motion toward their body (using more of their fingers than the whole wrist). It reminds me a bit of the game where a ball is caught in a scoop.
And when most Guatemalans wave goodbye, they use a gesture that looks like they are fanning themselves. They raise one hand (with their palm toward their body) and wave their fingers back and forth (but with their fingers all together like stuck in a mitten).
This hand wave behavior may seem strange at first, but don’t be surprised when you find yourself doing it in a very short time, as well.
Business is discussed in an office, or sometimes, over a meal. It is important to remember that, unlike the United States, business is never discussed visiting someone’s home, nor around their family.
Significance of Non-verbal Behavior
Nonverbal behavior has a great impact on people the world over. It’s not just facial expressions and eye contact that tell a story, but our gestures that can get us in inter cultural communication trouble. The following “illustrators” are the nonverbal hand gestures that are used to compliment (or illustrate) the spoken world.
General Overview: What we communicate to others…
Be aware of American Hand Gestures
It is easy to assume that every day socially accepted USA gestures, such as the OKAY sign, (thumb and fore finger making a circle) translate equally to Guatemala society. Not so. In Guatemala this sign is considered, “obscene.” Be sure not to make this sign.
The US “thumbs up” (closed fist, thumb pointing in the air) is also, very, “obscene.” (It is the equivalent of our “middle finger.”) This is another big, No, No.
Guatemala Hand Gestures
Guatemalans have gestures uncommon to us in the US as well. Generally speaking when a Guatemalan wants to call someone over to them, they will extend their arm out (palm side down) and make sort of a sort of scooping motion toward their body (using more of their fingers than the whole wrist). It reminds me a bit of the game where a ball is caught in a scoop.
And when most Guatemalans wave goodbye, they use a gesture that looks like they are fanning themselves. They raise one hand (with their palm toward their body) and wave their fingers back and forth (but with their fingers all together like stuck in a mitten).
This hand wave behavior may seem strange at first, but don’t be surprised when you find yourself doing it in a very short time, as well.
Part III: How to Work in Guatemala
Part III: Protocol in Guatemalan Business
Handshakes and Greetings
Greeting protocol in Guatemalan business is a bit complicated. Men always shake hands when greeting one another man, while women sometimes shake hands with men but it is at the woman’s discretion. Being an individualistic American, I think I would offer to shake hands with a man in Guatemala, hopefully remembering to give the more socially accepted, “limp” hand shake, as is normal to this cultural.
In Guatemala handshakes are politely accompanied by a formal verbal greeting such as good morning, good afternoon or good evening. (Buenas Dias! Buenas tardes! Buenas noches!( Women may also pat your right arm or shoulder instead of a hand shake.)
Smile, Smile, Smile
In business functions one must remember to smile, smile, smile and don’t forget to shake hands with everyone in the room at a party or business function! They are in the “being” mode of activity, enjoying every moment to its fullest. These shared recreations and celebrations form a critical part of the Guatemalans life style, both personally and professionally.
Interestingly enough, most people prefer to be addressed by their title alone. And since most Hispanic people have two surnames, it is probably easier to address people by their title.
People without titles should always be addressed by their surnames. If, however, one needs to address someone by their sur name, the first surname is used. Such as, Senor Juan Miguel Guetera Hernandez, will be addressed as Senor Guetera.
If one is addressing a married couple, while both parties are smiled at, more of the conversation is directed at the husband and he will more than likely be the one who will be conversing with you.
Handshakes and Greetings
Greeting protocol in Guatemalan business is a bit complicated. Men always shake hands when greeting one another man, while women sometimes shake hands with men but it is at the woman’s discretion. Being an individualistic American, I think I would offer to shake hands with a man in Guatemala, hopefully remembering to give the more socially accepted, “limp” hand shake, as is normal to this cultural.
In Guatemala handshakes are politely accompanied by a formal verbal greeting such as good morning, good afternoon or good evening. (Buenas Dias! Buenas tardes! Buenas noches!( Women may also pat your right arm or shoulder instead of a hand shake.)
Smile, Smile, Smile
In business functions one must remember to smile, smile, smile and don’t forget to shake hands with everyone in the room at a party or business function! They are in the “being” mode of activity, enjoying every moment to its fullest. These shared recreations and celebrations form a critical part of the Guatemalans life style, both personally and professionally.
Interestingly enough, most people prefer to be addressed by their title alone. And since most Hispanic people have two surnames, it is probably easier to address people by their title.
People without titles should always be addressed by their surnames. If, however, one needs to address someone by their sur name, the first surname is used. Such as, Senor Juan Miguel Guetera Hernandez, will be addressed as Senor Guetera.
If one is addressing a married couple, while both parties are smiled at, more of the conversation is directed at the husband and he will more than likely be the one who will be conversing with you.
Part II: How to Work in Guatemala PartI
Increasing Cultural Knowledge Base
Listening
We need to be in “focused listening” to the talkative Guatemalans who process information subjectively and emotionally rather than objectively. They will deal with each situation in the moment at hand and not to a “given rule” to solve their (and your) problem.
To partner with my listener for effective results, we have to increase our cultural knowledge base, as well as the awareness of our expectations. It is certainly imperative for us to note the gender of the listener we are interacting with (as a woman, I need to recognize that men in Guatemala – have a tendency to flirt; therefore we need to nicely - but firmly - keep them at bay).
On going it is important for every one to look at the Guatemalans’ definition of their personal work identity (since titles are important) as well as ones own individual symbolic interaction identities.
Comfort Zones...
Anyone working in Guatemala needs to remember that some Guatemalan people will be threatened if one appears that they are trying to change the established rules. Therefore every outsider must make certain that they always validate that they work for their company; and that it is the company line being expressed in discussion, not the personal “me” in a business meeting.
Playing by the Rules of Guatemalan Culture
We need to play by the rules of this collective society (where the majority rules) and put our American individualistic nature aside; which means you may need to make two or three visits to get some simple paper work completed as well as visiting your prospective business contact, a number of times before your are completely accepted….
Please remember that feelings are more important than facts to Guatemalans and be patient with delays, because it is normal business. One is advised to make an appointment up to a month in advance, as well as expecting to build a relationship before getting down to business.
Verbal Communication
In verbal communication title is everything. One is addressed formally by their title and then their surname; only if you are invited to be on a first name basis, is it appropriate to all a person by their first name.
It is also important to be in focused attention in your conversations as well as attentive to the non verbal behavior around you. Nothing must be done to pull rank or cause any one embarrassment - ever. Personal honor is the back bone of every Guatemalan business person. Make it yours as well.
Men are still in charge in Guatemala…
Most high ranking business is still done by men, and, since non verbal messages signify what words cannot (and do carry powerful emotional meanings); business women need to recognize the need to dress in a more formal (and Guatemalan culturally accepted) business type dresses or conservative skirts and jackets (slacks are not common – and please - no jeans since they would inevitably offend someone).
P-Time (Punctuality in general) vs. M- Time
Living in P –time, which is flex time, punctuality in general is not strictly adhered to, although, (especially if I run into an Asian person in a business transaction) I am, like all foreigners, expected to be on M-time (where I am expected in a “tangible outcome” orientation of waiting for my appointment to come in.)
So set your expectations aside and enjoy the life style that Guatemala has to offer. Preparing to do business in Guatemala includes understanding the cultures “in’s” and “outs” as well as where to live, and what places to visit. (Be sure to check out historic town of Antigua (built in the 1600’s), as well as taking time to drive the four hours to the breathtaking Lake Atitlan.)
Look for our Blog entitled: Example of How to Work in a Foreign Culture: Guatemala, Part III, and discover the Protocol of Doing Business in Guatemala.
Listening
We need to be in “focused listening” to the talkative Guatemalans who process information subjectively and emotionally rather than objectively. They will deal with each situation in the moment at hand and not to a “given rule” to solve their (and your) problem.
To partner with my listener for effective results, we have to increase our cultural knowledge base, as well as the awareness of our expectations. It is certainly imperative for us to note the gender of the listener we are interacting with (as a woman, I need to recognize that men in Guatemala – have a tendency to flirt; therefore we need to nicely - but firmly - keep them at bay).
On going it is important for every one to look at the Guatemalans’ definition of their personal work identity (since titles are important) as well as ones own individual symbolic interaction identities.
Comfort Zones...
Anyone working in Guatemala needs to remember that some Guatemalan people will be threatened if one appears that they are trying to change the established rules. Therefore every outsider must make certain that they always validate that they work for their company; and that it is the company line being expressed in discussion, not the personal “me” in a business meeting.
Playing by the Rules of Guatemalan Culture
We need to play by the rules of this collective society (where the majority rules) and put our American individualistic nature aside; which means you may need to make two or three visits to get some simple paper work completed as well as visiting your prospective business contact, a number of times before your are completely accepted….
Please remember that feelings are more important than facts to Guatemalans and be patient with delays, because it is normal business. One is advised to make an appointment up to a month in advance, as well as expecting to build a relationship before getting down to business.
Verbal Communication
In verbal communication title is everything. One is addressed formally by their title and then their surname; only if you are invited to be on a first name basis, is it appropriate to all a person by their first name.
It is also important to be in focused attention in your conversations as well as attentive to the non verbal behavior around you. Nothing must be done to pull rank or cause any one embarrassment - ever. Personal honor is the back bone of every Guatemalan business person. Make it yours as well.
Men are still in charge in Guatemala…
Most high ranking business is still done by men, and, since non verbal messages signify what words cannot (and do carry powerful emotional meanings); business women need to recognize the need to dress in a more formal (and Guatemalan culturally accepted) business type dresses or conservative skirts and jackets (slacks are not common – and please - no jeans since they would inevitably offend someone).
P-Time (Punctuality in general) vs. M- Time
Living in P –time, which is flex time, punctuality in general is not strictly adhered to, although, (especially if I run into an Asian person in a business transaction) I am, like all foreigners, expected to be on M-time (where I am expected in a “tangible outcome” orientation of waiting for my appointment to come in.)
So set your expectations aside and enjoy the life style that Guatemala has to offer. Preparing to do business in Guatemala includes understanding the cultures “in’s” and “outs” as well as where to live, and what places to visit. (Be sure to check out historic town of Antigua (built in the 1600’s), as well as taking time to drive the four hours to the breathtaking Lake Atitlan.)
Look for our Blog entitled: Example of How to Work in a Foreign Culture: Guatemala, Part III, and discover the Protocol of Doing Business in Guatemala.
Part I: How to Work in Guatemala
Guatemala is a land of mystery and myth.
The mystery of ancient Mayans circles the world, while most Americans believe that the stereotypical myth of only “chaos and contradiction” accurately describes Guatemalan society. (I.e. slow moving, slow thinking (?), drug invested, back ward, and so on and so forth.
Meanings from such words stem from the US values to a given culture;like Guatemala. While these things exist in Guatemala, it is also so much more.These stereotypical “ethnocentrism” words refer to the USA thinking its culture values are superior, and therefore Guatemala culture values are automatically inferior. This is not the case.
How to Avoid Confused Intercultural Communication
Whereas corruption does exist in Guatemala, chaos does not reign, and contradiction comes from confused inter cultural communication resulting from the “out-siders” not being in the “in-group.”
One needs “tools for their tool box” to effectively communicate in this culture to “get the job done.” So for anyone outside of this culture, who wants to work in Guatemala, and become an effective intercultural communicator, we must become mindful of different communication characteristics than our own; and of the communication process itself.
If it's to Be - It's up to me...
It is up to all of us - through mindful focusing, to recognize how our ethnocentric thinking, due to our cultural identity, along with symbolic exchanges (verbal and non verbal seeking shared meanings), process (meaning the interdependent nature of the “intercultural” encounter) cultural communities, negotiated shared meanings, interactive situations as well as language,etc., will affect our intercultural communication.
To be effective inter cultural communicators - we simply need to pay attention to what role we play in these interactions. It sounds like a lot of work. It's not.
The “sender and the receiver” of information, need to be on the same page in order to find common ground and to obtain effective results in business transactions.
In other words, we need to see things through the lenses of the Guatemalan perspective; finding fresh insights and new ways of really listening to others of this culture. This helps us increase our world vision to develop successful business.
How to Reduce Mis-communication
To be effective and reduce mis-communication for Guatemalan business, any of us who are not fluent in Spanish, need to brush up on our Spanish language skills! (Especially since Spanish is the official language of Guatemala and over 40% of the people speak twenty-three Indian dialects along with some Spanish. Note: Only in the biggest cities, will English be spoken).
Population, Poverty and Perception
With a population of 13.9 million, this tightly knit society has a distribution of income that remains highly unequal, with perhaps 75% of the population below the poverty line.
“Since the stranger’s interpersonal relationship with others in the guest culture is characterized by social distance” (Simmel), anyone from the USA could possibly be perceived as a representative of only “rich Americans,” to the people needed to interact and work with.
By the way, by drawing on "identity negotiations theories," we help Guatemalans with their feeling of “being understood” – and that, in intercultural business, is key.
Verbal and non-verbal communication styles...
It is also imperative...
...that we show through verbal and non verbal communication that we respect the people we work with, as well as that we recognize, acknowledge and endorse the Guatemalans cultural way of doing business. (How? Through eye contact, smiling, practicing culture-sensitive paraphrasing skills by restating the content meaning in our own words, showing interest in their hobbies, etc.)
Our responsibility...
...as effective communicators - is to step back in “mindful value comparison” of our culture with Guatemala's. This helps us take critical steps in our understanding of Guatemala's cultural background so we take nothing for granted, by mistakenly projecting our beliefs, attitudes, and expectations onto theirs.
Remind yourself that you stand present in the here and now; and that Guatemalan promises made yesterday, were made yesterday. Every one needs to purse yesterdays promises as a brand new idea, right here, right now, today; to get the results we seek in our business endeavors for tomorrow.
Be flexible;and become a student of Guatemala's business culture; for as much as you are their teacher for your products and services, they are your teacher too.The results you seek will come more quickly; and the business relationships and personal friendships you create through your understanding and participation in effective inter culture communication, will transcend a lifetime.
Attitudes and Expectations...
For example: As a person who was exposed to Spanish speaking cultures in a limited way, I (as most of us outside Spanish speaking world cultures) I had to review my ethnocentric world view. So do you. So my world view held the stereotype that most Guatemalans (being Spanish speaking) were Catholic. No longer true.
Did You Know?
According to, “How to Do Business in 60 Countries,” by Terry Morrison, Wayne A. Conaway and George H. Borden, Ph. D, Evangelical Protestantism has made the largest number of converts among the traditional Catholic population. About 25% of people are now Protestant, and much of the ruling elite “embrace” the prosperity theology.
This thinking implies...
...those Guatemalans who are indigent are so because they “lack faith,” and, business people from outside the culture must expect such beliefs to be overtly stated among Guatemalan business people.
Remember, only about 1% of the population of Guatemala is wealthy by USA standards, but they are the business leaders,movers and shakers - who are influencing their country (and directly affects how any one does business in Guatemala).
Why is this important to be aware of?
Since business done among Guatemalans tends to occur only after positive relationships have been established, every one needs to be aware - of the value system of the ruling class; and that it is very different from that of the indigenous Indians (it’s estimated that more than 70% of Guatemalans - are Indians).
So be aware of what are of the population your business is geared too.
Look for our Blog entitled: Part II: How to Work in Guatemala. Discover, How to Increase your Knowledge Base - for doing Business in Guatemala.
The mystery of ancient Mayans circles the world, while most Americans believe that the stereotypical myth of only “chaos and contradiction” accurately describes Guatemalan society. (I.e. slow moving, slow thinking (?), drug invested, back ward, and so on and so forth.
Meanings from such words stem from the US values to a given culture;like Guatemala. While these things exist in Guatemala, it is also so much more.These stereotypical “ethnocentrism” words refer to the USA thinking its culture values are superior, and therefore Guatemala culture values are automatically inferior. This is not the case.
How to Avoid Confused Intercultural Communication
Whereas corruption does exist in Guatemala, chaos does not reign, and contradiction comes from confused inter cultural communication resulting from the “out-siders” not being in the “in-group.”
One needs “tools for their tool box” to effectively communicate in this culture to “get the job done.” So for anyone outside of this culture, who wants to work in Guatemala, and become an effective intercultural communicator, we must become mindful of different communication characteristics than our own; and of the communication process itself.
If it's to Be - It's up to me...
It is up to all of us - through mindful focusing, to recognize how our ethnocentric thinking, due to our cultural identity, along with symbolic exchanges (verbal and non verbal seeking shared meanings), process (meaning the interdependent nature of the “intercultural” encounter) cultural communities, negotiated shared meanings, interactive situations as well as language,etc., will affect our intercultural communication.
To be effective inter cultural communicators - we simply need to pay attention to what role we play in these interactions. It sounds like a lot of work. It's not.
The “sender and the receiver” of information, need to be on the same page in order to find common ground and to obtain effective results in business transactions.
In other words, we need to see things through the lenses of the Guatemalan perspective; finding fresh insights and new ways of really listening to others of this culture. This helps us increase our world vision to develop successful business.
How to Reduce Mis-communication
To be effective and reduce mis-communication for Guatemalan business, any of us who are not fluent in Spanish, need to brush up on our Spanish language skills! (Especially since Spanish is the official language of Guatemala and over 40% of the people speak twenty-three Indian dialects along with some Spanish. Note: Only in the biggest cities, will English be spoken).
Population, Poverty and Perception
With a population of 13.9 million, this tightly knit society has a distribution of income that remains highly unequal, with perhaps 75% of the population below the poverty line.
“Since the stranger’s interpersonal relationship with others in the guest culture is characterized by social distance” (Simmel), anyone from the USA could possibly be perceived as a representative of only “rich Americans,” to the people needed to interact and work with.
By the way, by drawing on "identity negotiations theories," we help Guatemalans with their feeling of “being understood” – and that, in intercultural business, is key.
Verbal and non-verbal communication styles...
It is also imperative...
...that we show through verbal and non verbal communication that we respect the people we work with, as well as that we recognize, acknowledge and endorse the Guatemalans cultural way of doing business. (How? Through eye contact, smiling, practicing culture-sensitive paraphrasing skills by restating the content meaning in our own words, showing interest in their hobbies, etc.)
Our responsibility...
...as effective communicators - is to step back in “mindful value comparison” of our culture with Guatemala's. This helps us take critical steps in our understanding of Guatemala's cultural background so we take nothing for granted, by mistakenly projecting our beliefs, attitudes, and expectations onto theirs.
Remind yourself that you stand present in the here and now; and that Guatemalan promises made yesterday, were made yesterday. Every one needs to purse yesterdays promises as a brand new idea, right here, right now, today; to get the results we seek in our business endeavors for tomorrow.
Be flexible;and become a student of Guatemala's business culture; for as much as you are their teacher for your products and services, they are your teacher too.The results you seek will come more quickly; and the business relationships and personal friendships you create through your understanding and participation in effective inter culture communication, will transcend a lifetime.
Attitudes and Expectations...
For example: As a person who was exposed to Spanish speaking cultures in a limited way, I (as most of us outside Spanish speaking world cultures) I had to review my ethnocentric world view. So do you. So my world view held the stereotype that most Guatemalans (being Spanish speaking) were Catholic. No longer true.
Did You Know?
According to, “How to Do Business in 60 Countries,” by Terry Morrison, Wayne A. Conaway and George H. Borden, Ph. D, Evangelical Protestantism has made the largest number of converts among the traditional Catholic population. About 25% of people are now Protestant, and much of the ruling elite “embrace” the prosperity theology.
This thinking implies...
...those Guatemalans who are indigent are so because they “lack faith,” and, business people from outside the culture must expect such beliefs to be overtly stated among Guatemalan business people.
Remember, only about 1% of the population of Guatemala is wealthy by USA standards, but they are the business leaders,movers and shakers - who are influencing their country (and directly affects how any one does business in Guatemala).
Why is this important to be aware of?
Since business done among Guatemalans tends to occur only after positive relationships have been established, every one needs to be aware - of the value system of the ruling class; and that it is very different from that of the indigenous Indians (it’s estimated that more than 70% of Guatemalans - are Indians).
So be aware of what are of the population your business is geared too.
Look for our Blog entitled: Part II: How to Work in Guatemala. Discover, How to Increase your Knowledge Base - for doing Business in Guatemala.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Why Learn About Culture?
"As the world grows in global trade, travel and friendship, it is important to learn about other cultures so that we can resolve conflicts peacefully and experience the best each culture has to offer." Michele Carlson, Circles of Seven Magazine September/October 2009 edition.
It has been said that the world is shrinking; I think the world has already shrunk. The internet makes it possible to develop friendships across the globe through forums, Facebook, and Twitter; while business is frequently done face-to-face across the world through the invention of communication tools like Skype(tm).
This global expansion makes it necessary for all sides to make certain they communicate in a way that is not misunderstood by their listener. In the world of intercultural communication, little things mean a lot. Little things (like looking directly - or not directly - into someones eyes when talking) can convey respect, or indifference, and these little things can make or break any deal. Therefore it is important to realize what cultural expectations are (on all sides) in order to avoid an inadvertent offense in business or personal settings.
Broadening ones perception to understand where another culture is coming from, does not mean we have to give up our own belief systems. It is simply good business to understand our market place, and today, our market place is the world.
Learning about new cultures helps us expand our markets and services into areas we never dreamed of, thus creating mutually benefitical opportunities , and prosperity, for all.
It has been said that the world is shrinking; I think the world has already shrunk. The internet makes it possible to develop friendships across the globe through forums, Facebook, and Twitter; while business is frequently done face-to-face across the world through the invention of communication tools like Skype(tm).
This global expansion makes it necessary for all sides to make certain they communicate in a way that is not misunderstood by their listener. In the world of intercultural communication, little things mean a lot. Little things (like looking directly - or not directly - into someones eyes when talking) can convey respect, or indifference, and these little things can make or break any deal. Therefore it is important to realize what cultural expectations are (on all sides) in order to avoid an inadvertent offense in business or personal settings.
Broadening ones perception to understand where another culture is coming from, does not mean we have to give up our own belief systems. It is simply good business to understand our market place, and today, our market place is the world.
Learning about new cultures helps us expand our markets and services into areas we never dreamed of, thus creating mutually benefitical opportunities , and prosperity, for all.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
