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

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.