Chile: Conversation
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Welcome topics of conversation
General Guidelines
Displaying a basic familiarity with positive aspects of the history and economy of Chile is an excellent way to establish rapport. The country is one of geographical extremes. The country is 4,000 miles [6,000 Km] long and only about 100 miles [150Km] wide. The northern part of the country is the driest place on earth. There are areas of the Altacama desert that have not had rainfall in recorded history. The southern part of the country resembles Sweden or Norway, with glaciers and fjords. These are safe topics of conversation, and your Chilean companions will appreciate that you have made the effort to learn about their country.
Chileans are a very patriotic people and will likely take offense at negative comments of any kind directed at their country.
It's a mistake to compare Chile to Argentina: there has been a great deal of conflict between them. Moreover, these are two distinct nations, separated by the Andes--one of the world's most formidable natural barriers.
Refrain from using the North American conversation starter "What do you do?" If people wish to discuss their occupation, they will eventually volunteer this information.
In conversation, try to deflect attention from yourself. The best strategy is to display a genuine interest in others and frequently ask the kinds of questions that they are willing to answer. It's best to focus on questions related to their interests [whether they are sports, travel, cultural life, etc.] rather than very personal questions. Many Chileans have an enthusiasm for artistic pursuits such as music, painting, and literature, and you might find common ground in these areas.
Chileans perceive interruptions as a way of participating in conversations and displaying interest in what is being said. So, if you are interrupted, there is no need to take offense.
Remember that Chileans tend to have an inherent sense of courtesy that sometimes causes them to say what they think they want you to hear, rather than give a candid response.
South Americans generally converse in closer proximity than North Americans; do your best to adapt to this practice--it may be taken personally if you back away from someone.
Welcome Topics of Conversation
The Chilean landscape/ places of interest for tourists in Chile
travel--Most educated Chileans have traveled extensively throughout North America and Europe and are well acquainted with the histories and current events of most countries outside of Chile.
sports such as soccer, polo, skiing and fishing
food and particularly wine--Chile is known to produce some of the finest wines in the world.
positive aspects of Chilean history
positive aspects of the Chilean economy, which has grown by an average of 7% a year for the last 12 years.
Chilean literature and art--The Nobel prize in literature has been awarded to two Chileans, Gabriela Mistral and Pablo Naruda.
inquiries about family, especially children [but don't probe]
Topics to Avoid
criticizing any aspect of Chile--even if your Chilean companions making these kinds of remarks
the countries surrounding Chile--i.e., Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru
politics
wars
human rights violations
the Araucanian Indians
ethnic and social classes
religion
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