Applying Martin Hahn's (2006) Ten Commandments of Intercultural Communication

My current company owns stores in Mexico and as most of you probably know, Mexico’s social values differ from our own, and, in addition, Mexico is also very diverse in its local cultures providing that extra challenge depending on the region you visit or conduct business.  I am a former Spanish studies major and Chicano Studies minor so most of my knowledge comes from my higher education studies in this area; however I have also been aided by experiences during my two mission trips to Juarez, Mexico, years ago, and my volunteer work at La Escuelita (an after-school program for Spanish speaking Middle and High School students in Minneapolis, MN). 

If I ever made an appearance at a CRC (Community Relations Coordinator) conference in Mexico for my company I would, first, need to remember to dress formally because this is the standard in Mexico.  I would also have to adapt to a little different time concept.  Although it is common for the U.S. and Mexico to share the traditional 9am-5pm work day, it would not be surprising to take a two hour break for lunch and work as late as 7pm.  There is also the possibility the meeting or conference would take place over a two hour breakfast rather than the usual afternoon meeting time. 

If I were working as a CRC in Mexico and wanted to place a media piece I might also have to negotiate between my ethical standard and the idea of paying to place my story.  In some countries they do not have laws against bribery with regard to the media; it is more like buying advertising space.  This can create challenges for U.S. businesses that have to maintain the standards and laws their company adheres to in the U.S. even when conducting business in other countries.

Other differences I am aware of that are relevant to the Hahn’s “Ten Commandments of Intercultural Communication” are decision making customs, such as the meaning of a “yes” and a “no.”  It is impolite to turn down an invitation in Mexico so you can’t count on all attendees who replied “yes” to an invite which my church learned while holding an event in Mexico.  This can make planning an event a bit challenging.  When doing business, a “no” can also mean “maybe.”  This means you should consider cultural context and study your potential business associate’s nonverbal behavior to get a better idea of what that “no” really means.  Should you continue to pursue business after receiving the “no” or should you walk away?

Commandment II of Hahn’s (2006) “Ten Commandments of Intercultural Communication” says “Be aware of differing status symbols and how to demonstrate them.”  This can be applied to doing business in Mexico as well.  Status is very important in Mexico so knowing the appropriate title a business associate should be referred by is another difference to remember.  Even a bachelor’s degree can warrant a title which I can’t help but agree with.  We all deserve respect for the hard work we are doing. 

The final Commandment I am aware of that applies to doing business in Mexico is Commandment V, “Be aware of personal space” (Hahn, 2006).  In Mexico it is impolite to stand back from people, especially when greeting them.  If you do what you would normally do in the U.S. you might find that your business associates distrust you or are hesitant with you for such behavior.  Handshakes, hugs, and even kisses on the cheek with women are common, not just in social gatherings, but in business practice as well.

         

Reference

Hahn, M. (2006, January 02). Ten commandments of intercultural communication. EzineArticles.com, Retrieved from http://ezinearticles.com/?Ten-Commandments-of-Intercultural-Communication&id=120247