Mexico: Gift Giving
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Selecting and presenting an appropriate business gift
General Guidelines
Gift giving is not usually a requirement in Mexican business culture. Presenting a small gift, however, will generally be appreciated as a gesture of good will.
If you do want to give a gift, be aware that inquiring about what he or she would like to receive as presents can be offensive.
If you are invited to a home, there is no obligation to bring a gift. If you would like to reciprocate, an invitation out for a meal is often appreciated.
If you do present a gift to your hosts, your thoughtful gesture will be appreciated. Bring candy, flowers, or a souvenir from your home region. An illustrated book about the city you represent is a good choice.
According to Mexican folklore, yellow flowers symbolize death, red flowers cast spells, and white flowers lift spells. Ask the florist or another Mexican for help.
Appreciated Gifts
items with your company's logo [for your initial visit and if appropriate]
a bottle of wine or scotch [for subsequent visits]
Expensive gifts are seldom appropriate unless a considerable degree of friendship has been established.
Secretaries always appreciate receiving a small but thoughtful gift such as a souvenir of your area. It's best to wait until the second or third visit and until she has become a part of your project. Expensive gifts are never appropriate
Gifts for Children
It is also thoughtful to bring a small gift to any child that may be present at a home you visit. Good gift choices for children include:
toys associated with the United States
appropriate computer related software, if not available in Mexico
If the child is interested in sports, bring a sports team shirt or cap, preferably from your area.
If you're still undecided, ask your Mexican host ahead of time about his or her child's interests. Try to be indirect; again, enquiring about what others would like to receive as a present may be offensive.
Gifts to Avoid
Don't bring silver. Mexicans are justly proud of their silver which is among the purest in the world. Products made from it win awards world-wide.
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