Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. With regard to greetings, men generally shake hands with other men; close friends may also pat each other on the back or hug. Women usually do not shake hands, although in professional settings, women may initiate a handshake (men should not allow women to initiate handshakes). Among female friends, greetings usually constitute a gentle kiss on the right cheek. Women may kiss female friends lightly on the right cheek. In social situations, one should greet and shake hands with each person individually.
2. Chileans do not usually use professional titles unless they are medical doctors, however, one should still retain proper and formal forms of address such as Mr., Mrs., or Ms. (
Senor, Senora, or Senorita) until invited to use his or her first name.
3. Personal body space is much closer in Chile than in other parts of the world, and Chileans may even converse with a hand on the other person's back or shoulder. Try to accept this difference even if it makes you feel somewhat uncomfortable.
4. Chile is still a male-centered society. Nevertheless, Chilean women are increasingly becoming more involved and accepted in the workplace, and female visitors should expect few gender-oriented problems in the professional realm. Business women form other countries should behave in a highly professional, appropriate, and non- confrontational manner.
5. In general Chileans are non-confrontational people, preferring modest, kind and respectful behavior. In this regard they are not similar to more flamboyant Latin cultures. Try to engage with Chileans in an equally contained manner.
6. Chileans are status conscious and in business especially, adhering to standards of hierarchy is to be expected. Things do not function entirely along a top-down continuum either. The lateral dimension, exemplified by personal relationships, is also a vital aspect of Chilean culture. Nothing is accomplished unless good rapport has been established and that quality of connection takes time. Another aspect of the lateral dimension is exemplified by the importance of contacts and introductions. Having a good local sponsor is vital. Visitors should learn how to cultivate an understanding for both the hierarchical and the lateral aspects of the culture and social structure.
7. At dinner parties, excellent table manners are expected. Try to follow Western or European standards. In brief, be sure to retain use of the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right hand, keep your hands on the table and your elbows off the table, pour wine using the right hand, begin eating when everyone has their food in front of them, and try to sample all foods placed in front of you.
8. In conversation, avoid controversial topics such as local politics, human rights violations - especially in regard to Chile's record, or religion. Even if locals discuss these issues freely, some restraint is advised unless you are well versed on the issues. Suggested alternative topics include historical, and economic issues, culture, travel and sports. Local sightseeing and wines are also good subjects of conversation.
9. Gestures to avoid include slapping your right fist into your open left arm (considered obscene) and an open palm with the fingers spread (denotes stupidity).
10. Although most entertaining is done in public venues such as hotels and restaurants (be sure to choose venues with good reputations if you are the host), if you are invited to the home of a Chilean, note that can take flowers or chocolates to the hostess, although it is not required. A thank you note is not required either, although a thank you conversation over the telephone is a nice gesture.
11. Punctuality is expected in business but some lag time is expected in social events stretching from 15 minutes to half an hour depending on whether the event is a dinner or party respectively.
12. Business attire in Chile is traditional. Men should stick to dark suits with white shirts and conservative ties. Women should also wear suits as well as heeled shoes. Although women wear makeup and jewelry, loud and lurid colors should be avoided, and jewelry should be high quality and not appear to be flashy or garish. Generally, Chileans are fashionable in the classic sense of the term. In social settings, suits and cocktail dresses are the norm. In casual settings, pants, jeans or skirts with shirts or blouses are acceptable; shorts should remain on the beach. Be sure to bring warmer clothing for higher altitudes.