Mexico: Conversation
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Welcome Topics of Conversation
We do well to remember that, as North Americans in Mexico, we are visitors and that our hosts will appreciate our respecting their country, their institutions and their culture. In particular, our hosts will usually respond more positively if we demonstrate an enthusiasm in visiting their country and a genuine interest in learning more about it.
Visitors who take the time to arrive a day early and see a bit of Mexico before settling into business will be richer in several ways. Certainly they will have interesting things to talk about in their initial discussions with prospective business associates.
Welcome first topics of conversation in Mexico include positive comments about the city and the people whom one has encountered. If you have arrived early enough to have visited one of Mexico's spectacular museums or toured the city, there will be many topics that will interest your host.
General Guidelines
Mexicans are often curious about comparing the relative prices of items sold in Mexico and other countries. Consequently, don't be surprised if you are asked about the price of certain goods in your home country.
Sometimes, Mexicans avoid directly saying “no.” A “no” may be really mean “maybe” or “We'll see.” The North American tendency to get down to business and take direct positions can be perceived as rude and pushy.
Welcome Topics of Conversation
Mexican scenery and landmarks
your immediate surroundings
Mexican culture and history
sports--particularly Mexican “futbol” [soccer]
the weather [Mexicans do not share the fascination with weather that so many North Americans have. Air pollution in Mexico City is a major problem, and Mexicans are not proud of it. On the other hand, the weather in Mexico City is generally temperate, and the visitor might make a pleasant comparisons with the winter back home.]
Topics That One Should Avoid in General Include:
religion
Mexican politics
The Mexican-American War and its consequences for Mexico
illegal aliens
comparing Mexico unfavourably to the United States
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