ohana

BUS 302: Guatemala

[AJ+ @ajplus]

Guatemala suspended a new budget after protesters set fire to Congress: "The people are fed up with being trampled on."

It would cut funds to health care and education and give most money to big business. But it may still be used if Congress doesn't pass a new budget this month.

[ohana @ohanad22]

@WestonJ97690358 @Professor_Hoang Guatemala is similar in that gifts are uncommon and not usually brought to a first meeting. However, if invited to a Guatemalan household, it is appropriate to bring chocolates, wine, or flowers (avoid white ones which are usually brought to funerals). #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

In decision-making, decisions are generally made by higher level management due to the importance of hierarchy in Guatemala. Although input might be appreciated, it is understood and expected that the ultimate decision will be made by superiors/managers. @Professor_Hoang #BUS302

[ohana @ohanad22]

@CarolineBus302 @Professor_Hoang It is similar in Guatemala, where business meetings are often part of a lunch or dinner meeting. Lunches usually last an hour but dinner meetings are much more of a social event that can last several hours and even start as late as 10 or 11 pm! #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

However, with indigenous Guatemalans, there is less eye contact and physical touching. Handshakes are often described as limp, like a light touch. They are generally more reserved and conservative in communication and emotional displays. #BUS302
@Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

Nonverbal communication is an important aspect of communication that can be overlooked. For what some refer to as Ladinos (Guatemalans of European descent), there is usually less of a sense of personal space. Big gestures, direct eye contact, and firm handshakes are the norm.

[ohana @ohanad22]

@natestilo13 Interesting, in Guatemala is important to be as direct as possible as they do not respond well to vagueness and ambiguity. #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

Guatemala is a very class conscious society, making dress and presentation very important. In professional settings, good grooming, neat clothing, and cleanliness is expected. Individuals are often treated accordingly. #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

@kayleebus302 @Professor_Hoang Interesting! In Guatemala, businesses are generally open Monday to Friday 9 AM -1 PM and from 3 PM- 7PM but Friday afternoon is often considered "pre-weekend" and it might be hard to reach people Friday afternoon. Similar to New Zealand, on Saturday they may close early at 1pm.

[ohana @ohanad22]

In negotiations in Guatemala, one should avoid pressure tactics, hard selling, or confrontation as Guatemalans value harmony and maintaining relationships. An indirect communication style is preferred as opposed to direct. #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

@_brianbrennan @Professor_Hoang Interesting! Time in Guatemala is also somewhat relaxed but business people in general tend to be punctual. Social conversation (possibly regarding culture and geography) before negotiations take place is considered the common custom. #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

In the Hofstede analysis for Guatemala, uncertainty avoidance ranks highest as a country who’s citizens are extremely risk adverse, do not readily accept change, and value career security. #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[ohana @ohanad22]

In communicating with and addressing someone in Guatemala, titles are very important(especially along the elderly). They often address others by title only such as their occupation by calling them Doctor, Ingeniero (engineer), or Abogado (lawyer). #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang