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.