North, Central and South American cultures
are represented in this program with only one country from each
area. Cultures vary considerably in Hispanic communities and in
different South American countries. Argentina is used here as an
example of the variations in Hispanic cultures.
Language
Spanish is the prevalent language but
English and Italian are common.
Religion
There is an official separation of the
church and state. 90% Roman Catholic, with small percentages of
Protestant and Jewish.
Negotiation
Discussion and decision-making is generally
slower than in the U.S. Decisions are made by individuals but
always with the best interest of the family or group taking
priority. Strong personal relationships make Argentineans more
concerned about the consequences of an action than about the
action itself.
Introductions
Shaking hands briefly or a nod is a
customary greeting. Close friends may shake hands, embrace, thump
on the back and conclude with another handshake. A man and a woman
do not customarily shake hands. Conversation occurs at a closer
distance than in the U.S., often with a hand on the other person's
lapel or shoulder. Maintaining eye contact is very important,
which may be difficult for people not accustomed to eye contact at
close range. A pat on the shoulder is a sign of
friendship.
Time
Punctuality is an important concept for
which being slightly late is acceptable particularly for the 'more
important' person. It is usually important to clarify the need for
promptness, and can be done with the statement or questions 'En
punto' or "¿En Punto?
Gestures
The U.S. gesture for "so-so" (twisting the
flat, open hand from side to side) is common in Argentina and has
the same meaning. A sweeping gesture beginning under the chin and
continuing up over the top of the head is used to mean "I don't
know" or "I don't care." With thumb and middle finger touching,
tapping them with the index finger indicates "Hurry up" or "a
lot."
Miscellaneous
Placing hands on hips while speaking may be
seen as rude or an attempt to intimidate.
Feet should not rest on anything other than
a footstool or the floor - very impolite to place feet on other
objects.
Eating is a private act and not commonly
done on the street in the style of American fast-food.