Chile: Culture
This guide to business culture and etiquette in Chile is courtesy of Executive Planet
Appointment Alert!
Making appointments
Third party introductions, through institutions such as banks and consulting firms, are often a necessary prelude to conducting business in Chile.
January and February are popular vacation times. This is the height of the summer in Chile. Trying to conduct business during these months is probably futile.
If you want to get to a decision-maker, it's always necessary to go through the secretary first. Secretaries largely determine who gets access to their manager[s], so it will be in your best interests to remain polite and gracious when dealing with them.
Appointments should be scheduled at least two or three weeks in advance. Also, make a point of confirming the appointment before your visit to Chile and upon your arrival.
In most cases, the best times to schedule appointments with your Chilean contacts are from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sometimes, people will meet from approximately 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., combining their appointment with a business lunch.
Remember that many Europeans and South Americans write the day first, then the month, then the year [i.e., March 12, 2005 is written 12.3.05]. This is the case in Chile.
Generally, business hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. There is a two-hour lunch break at 2:00 p.m.
Government offices are open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
For all business-related occasions, punctuality is appreciated and expected from visitors to Chile. Nevertheless, you should still expect your Chilean counterparts to be approximately 15 to 30 minutes late.
When invited to someone's home, guests are expected to show up around 15 minutes late. For a dinner party, guests can arrive at least 30 minutes late.
Generally, Chilean businesspeople are conservative thinkers and take business ethics seriously. In all likelihood, business will move at a relatively slow pace. Moreover, it may be necessary to take several trips before the transaction concludes.
Third party introductions, through institutions such as banks and consulting firms, are often a necessary prelude to conducting business in Chile.
January and February are popular vacation times. This is the height of the summer in Chile. Trying to conduct business during these months is probably futile.
If you want to get to a decision-maker, it's always necessary to go through the secretary first. Secretaries largely determine who gets access to their manager[s], so it will be in your best interests to remain polite and gracious when dealing with them.
Appointments should be scheduled at least two or three weeks in advance. Also, make a point of confirming the appointment before your visit to Chile and upon your arrival.
In most cases, the best times to schedule appointments with your Chilean contacts are from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sometimes, people will meet from approximately 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., combining their appointment with a business lunch.
Remember that many Europeans and South Americans write the day first, then the month, then the year [i.e., March 12, 2005 is written 12.3.05]. This is the case in Chile.
Generally, business hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. There is a two-hour lunch break at 2:00 p.m.
Government offices are open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
For all business-related occasions, punctuality is appreciated and expected from visitors to Chile. Nevertheless, you should still expect your Chilean counterparts to be approximately 15 to 30 minutes late.
When invited to someone's home, guests are expected to show up around 15 minutes late. For a dinner party, guests can arrive at least 30 minutes late.
Generally, Chilean businesspeople are conservative thinkers and take business ethics seriously. In all likelihood, business will move at a relatively slow pace. Moreover, it may be necessary to take several trips before the transaction concludes.
Business Dress
Guidelines for business dress
As a visitor, the best policy is to dress conservatively and formally. Dressing well is a priority here and is perceived as a sign of respect. Moreover, the "business casual" look [i.e., sports coat, khakis, casual shoes] will not be well-received.
The best wardrobe options for men include blue or gray suits, white shirts, and conservative ties. Similarly, women should stick with blue or gray business suits and shoes with low heels.
It will be in your best interests to avoid wearing clothing that is extremely bright, or otherwise attracts attention. Regrettably, perhaps, an "individual" dress sense is likely to compromise your success in this country. Emulating the business dress of your Chilean peers promotes a level comfort and security that helps them to accept and eventually become friends with you.
Men and women who wear jewelry should select only conservative and understated pieces. Chileans may perceive you as vain and self-absorbed if they see you in expensive, eye-catching accessories.
If invited to dinner at someone's home or to a restaurant, standard attire for men includes a suit and tie, and for women, a conservative--yet elegant--dress. In recent years it has become acceptable to dress more casually in the summer, short sleeved shirts and slacks for men, and more casual dresses for women.
Pants or good jeans and a shirt are fine for casual wear. Shorts are rarely worn in public.
Chile has extremes in temperature between the northern part of the country and the south. The north is typical desert, hot in the day and cool at night. The south has heavy snowfalls and extremely low temperature in the winter. The seasons are the reverse of North America or Europe. Winter is June, July and August.
At higher altitudes, warmer clothes are necessary.
As a visitor, the best policy is to dress conservatively and formally. Dressing well is a priority here and is perceived as a sign of respect. Moreover, the "business casual" look [i.e., sports coat, khakis, casual shoes] will not be well-received.
The best wardrobe options for men include blue or gray suits, white shirts, and conservative ties. Similarly, women should stick with blue or gray business suits and shoes with low heels.
It will be in your best interests to avoid wearing clothing that is extremely bright, or otherwise attracts attention. Regrettably, perhaps, an "individual" dress sense is likely to compromise your success in this country. Emulating the business dress of your Chilean peers promotes a level comfort and security that helps them to accept and eventually become friends with you.
Men and women who wear jewelry should select only conservative and understated pieces. Chileans may perceive you as vain and self-absorbed if they see you in expensive, eye-catching accessories.
If invited to dinner at someone's home or to a restaurant, standard attire for men includes a suit and tie, and for women, a conservative--yet elegant--dress. In recent years it has become acceptable to dress more casually in the summer, short sleeved shirts and slacks for men, and more casual dresses for women.
Pants or good jeans and a shirt are fine for casual wear. Shorts are rarely worn in public.
Chile has extremes in temperature between the northern part of the country and the south. The north is typical desert, hot in the day and cool at night. The south has heavy snowfalls and extremely low temperature in the winter. The seasons are the reverse of North America or Europe. Winter is June, July and August.
At higher altitudes, warmer clothes are necessary.
Conversation
Welcome topics of conversation
General Guidelines
Displaying a basic familiarity with positive aspects of the history and economy of Chile is an excellent way to establish rapport. The country is one of geographical extremes. The country is 4,000 miles [6,000 Km] long and only about 100 miles [150Km] wide. The northern part of the country is the driest place on earth. There are areas of the Altacama desert that have not had rainfall in recorded history. The southern part of the country resembles Sweden or Norway, with glaciers and fjords. These are safe topics of conversation, and your Chilean companions will appreciate that you have made the effort to learn about their country.
Chileans are a very patriotic people and will likely take offense at negative comments of any kind directed at their country.
It's a mistake to compare Chile to Argentina: there has been a great deal of conflict between them. Moreover, these are two distinct nations, separated by the Andes--one of the world's most formidable natural barriers.
Refrain from using the North American conversation starter "What do you do?" If people wish to discuss their occupation, they will eventually volunteer this information.
In conversation, try to deflect attention from yourself. The best strategy is to display a genuine interest in others and frequently ask the kinds of questions that they are willing to answer. It's best to focus on questions related to their interests [whether they are sports, travel, cultural life, etc.] rather than very personal questions. Many Chileans have an enthusiasm for artistic pursuits such as music, painting, and literature, and you might find common ground in these areas.
Chileans perceive interruptions as a way of participating in conversations and displaying interest in what is being said. So, if you are interrupted, there is no need to take offense.
Remember that Chileans tend to have an inherent sense of courtesy that sometimes causes them to say what they think they want you to hear, rather than give a candid response.
South Americans generally converse in closer proximity than North Americans; do your best to adapt to this practice--it may be taken personally if you back away from someone.
Welcome Topics of Conversation
Topics to Avoid
- The Chilean landscape/ places of interest for tourists in Chile
- travel--Most educated Chileans have traveled extensively throughout North America and Europe and are well acquainted with the histories and current events of most countries outside of Chile.
- sports such as soccer, polo, skiing and fishing
- food and particularly wine--Chile is known to produce some of the finest wines in the world.
- positive aspects of Chilean history
- positive aspects of the Chilean economy, which has grown by an average of 7% a year for the last 12 years.
- Chilean literature and art--The Nobel prize in literature has been awarded to two Chileans, Gabriela Mistral and Pablo Naruda.
- inquiries about family, especially children [but don't probe]
- criticizing any aspect of Chile--even if your Chilean companions making these kinds of remarks
- the countries surrounding Chile--i.e., Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru
- politics
- wars
- human rights violations
- the Araucanian Indians
- ethnic and social classes
- religion
First Name or Title?
Addressing others with respect
An individual can be addressed by using the titles "Mr." ["Señor"], "Mrs." ["Señora"], or "Miss" ["Señorita"] followed by his or her surname. Sometimes, a person can be addressed by his or her professional title and surname. Nevertheless, the use of professional titles is not as common in Chile. The best policy is to ask a person how he or she prefers to be addressed.
The majority of Hispanics hold both maternal and paternal surnames. The father's surname is listed first and would be used to address the person. For example, Carlos Lopez Garcia would be addressed as "Señor Lopez."
When a woman marries, she often takes her husband's surname. Nevertheless, she may choose to keep her father's surname for her professional identity.
Physicians are always called "Doctor."
An individual can be addressed by using the titles "Mr." ["Señor"], "Mrs." ["Señora"], or "Miss" ["Señorita"] followed by his or her surname. Sometimes, a person can be addressed by his or her professional title and surname. Nevertheless, the use of professional titles is not as common in Chile. The best policy is to ask a person how he or she prefers to be addressed.
The majority of Hispanics hold both maternal and paternal surnames. The father's surname is listed first and would be used to address the person. For example, Carlos Lopez Garcia would be addressed as "Señor Lopez."
When a woman marries, she often takes her husband's surname. Nevertheless, she may choose to keep her father's surname for her professional identity.
Physicians are always called "Doctor."
Gift Giving
Selecting and presenting an appropriate business gift
General Guidelines
Gifts are not expected in a business context until the relationship becomes close.
Don't select anything that is obviously expensive; your generosity may be perceived as a bribe.
Ensure that your gift is wrapped and has a card enclosed.
When visiting a Chilean home, flowers or candy are standard gifts for the hostess; a gift of flowers should be sent in advance. Avoid yellow roses, as they are perceived as a sign of contempt. Moreover, purple and black flowers symbolize death.
General Guidelines
Gifts are not expected in a business context until the relationship becomes close.
Don't select anything that is obviously expensive; your generosity may be perceived as a bribe.
Ensure that your gift is wrapped and has a card enclosed.
When visiting a Chilean home, flowers or candy are standard gifts for the hostess; a gift of flowers should be sent in advance. Avoid yellow roses, as they are perceived as a sign of contempt. Moreover, purple and black flowers symbolize death.
Let's Make a Deal!
What you should know before negotiating
Third party introductions, through institutions such as banks and consulting firms, are often a necessary prelude to conducting business in Chile.
Have your business card translated into Spanish on the reverse side. Bring a plentiful supply of cards, since Chilean businesspeople will be keen to exchange them--customarily after the initial handshake.
Smiling and making eye contact are part of the ritual of presenting and receiving cards. Also, take a few moments to look admiringly at your counterpart's business card after it is handed to you.
This can be a very formal society, and it is considered important to keep any business cards you receive in excellent condition. Investing in a card case will be helpful in ensuring that your cards stay well preserved. Moreover, when you are presented with a card, it creates a better impression to place it in a special case, rather than hastily into your back pocket--these distinctions will be noticed.
In Chilean business culture, interpersonal skills such as the ability to "fit in" and maintain cordial relations with the group are sometimes considered more important than professional competence and experience. Moreover, establishing rapport and friendship remains key to conducting business and effective problem-solving.
South Americans generally converse in closer proximity than North Americans; do your best to adapt to this practice--it may be taken personally if you back away from someone.
Chilean business culture has a definite hierarchical order and you will be expected to defer to the most senior person present. If you are unsure who is the most senior individual, one way of understanding the "chain of command" is by observing the amount of deference given to others during a meeting. Watching how the participants treat each other can be very telling, especially in a society as status-conscious as Chile.
Business discussions should be preceded by some preliminary "small talk."
An initial visit should be made by an upper-level executive, accompanied by mid-level executives. Mid-level executives will attend subsequent visits to conduct negotiations that go into greater depth.
Your Chilean counterparts may appear formal during an initial meeting, but the warmth will eventually increase in subsequent encounters.
Conservative values prevail in politics, economics, and social attitudes. Honesty and integrity are highly valued. A sense of humour is appreciated, although for the most part, meetings remain intensely focused and serious.
Personal honour is very important to Latin American businesspeople; refrain from publicly criticizing or patronizing others, and doing anything else that might create embarrassment.
Displaying kindness and respect towards other people are valued qualities, and there is a tendency to avoid aggressive behaviour. It's important to be empathetic in your dealings, especially with those less fortunate than you. Moreover, you will find that expressing concern for the country's welfare and the Chileans you deal with is an appreciated gesture.
Be aware that Chileans tend to have an inherent sense of courtesy that sometimes causes them to say what they think they want you to hear, rather than give a candid response.
In negotiations, feelings sometimes take precedence over facts. Among Chileans, perceptions of the truth can be subjective and personal. Catholic or Protestant doctrine can also be a profound influence in thinking.
Third party introductions, through institutions such as banks and consulting firms, are often a necessary prelude to conducting business in Chile.
Have your business card translated into Spanish on the reverse side. Bring a plentiful supply of cards, since Chilean businesspeople will be keen to exchange them--customarily after the initial handshake.
Smiling and making eye contact are part of the ritual of presenting and receiving cards. Also, take a few moments to look admiringly at your counterpart's business card after it is handed to you.
This can be a very formal society, and it is considered important to keep any business cards you receive in excellent condition. Investing in a card case will be helpful in ensuring that your cards stay well preserved. Moreover, when you are presented with a card, it creates a better impression to place it in a special case, rather than hastily into your back pocket--these distinctions will be noticed.
In Chilean business culture, interpersonal skills such as the ability to "fit in" and maintain cordial relations with the group are sometimes considered more important than professional competence and experience. Moreover, establishing rapport and friendship remains key to conducting business and effective problem-solving.
South Americans generally converse in closer proximity than North Americans; do your best to adapt to this practice--it may be taken personally if you back away from someone.
Chilean business culture has a definite hierarchical order and you will be expected to defer to the most senior person present. If you are unsure who is the most senior individual, one way of understanding the "chain of command" is by observing the amount of deference given to others during a meeting. Watching how the participants treat each other can be very telling, especially in a society as status-conscious as Chile.
Business discussions should be preceded by some preliminary "small talk."
An initial visit should be made by an upper-level executive, accompanied by mid-level executives. Mid-level executives will attend subsequent visits to conduct negotiations that go into greater depth.
Your Chilean counterparts may appear formal during an initial meeting, but the warmth will eventually increase in subsequent encounters.
Conservative values prevail in politics, economics, and social attitudes. Honesty and integrity are highly valued. A sense of humour is appreciated, although for the most part, meetings remain intensely focused and serious.
Personal honour is very important to Latin American businesspeople; refrain from publicly criticizing or patronizing others, and doing anything else that might create embarrassment.
Displaying kindness and respect towards other people are valued qualities, and there is a tendency to avoid aggressive behaviour. It's important to be empathetic in your dealings, especially with those less fortunate than you. Moreover, you will find that expressing concern for the country's welfare and the Chileans you deal with is an appreciated gesture.
Be aware that Chileans tend to have an inherent sense of courtesy that sometimes causes them to say what they think they want you to hear, rather than give a candid response.
In negotiations, feelings sometimes take precedence over facts. Among Chileans, perceptions of the truth can be subjective and personal. Catholic or Protestant doctrine can also be a profound influence in thinking.
Let's Make a Deal!
(Part 2)
What you should know before negotiating
Chilean businesspeople tend to be serious, straightforward negotiators. Nevertheless, using the “hard-sell” and other aggressive tactics will not go over well. Instead, specify your priorities, terms, and conditions. Proposing a strong financial package, with options such as nontraditional financing terms is another asset.
Providing continued service to your client, despite the long distances involved, can be a welcome gesture of commitment. This is because Chilean businesspeople wish to overcome the isolation imposed on them by geography.
Since job security is a concern for many Chileans, expressing reassurances whenever possible will be appreciated.
It would be a mistake to bribe your Chilean business associates. Although this is standard practice in other Latin American countries, in Chile it could land you in jail.
Many Chilean women are professionally advanced, and female business travelers are likely to find acceptance and opportunities for success here. Nevertheless, “machismo” is still a strong influence; it's necessary for women exercise caution and restraint in their social and professional lives. Moreover, female business travelers should graciously accept any chivalric gestures they receive, while maintaining their professionalism at all times.
Chilean business culture is not as bureaucratic as other Latin American countries; higher-level executives have reputation for efficiency.
Usually, those in the highest positions of authority are entrusted with the final decision [i.e., the upper-level “presidente” or “gerente general”, with the “gerente” and mid to low level managers providing support]. Gestures are sometimes made toward allowing input from other ranks in the organization, so it’s important to remain patient. Moreover, it may be necessary to take several trips before the transaction concludes.
Generally, contract agreements are followed rigidly, problems are resolved swiftly, and payments are made promptly on the deadline.
When receiving a mail delivery, you are expected to tip the postal carrier. This person should receive a few pesos for each piece of mail delivered.
It’s a mistake to compare Chile to Argentina: there has been a great deal of conflict between them. Moreover, these are two distinct nations, separated by the Andes--one of the world’s most formidable natural barriers.
There are a small, class-conscious elite, and a larger middle class than in most other Latin American countries. Although extremes between rich and poor exist in this society, there is a prevailing belief that those in power are entitled to the privileges accompanying their positions. Generally, Chileans feel resigned to their existing status.
Chilean businesspeople tend to be serious, straightforward negotiators. Nevertheless, using the “hard-sell” and other aggressive tactics will not go over well. Instead, specify your priorities, terms, and conditions. Proposing a strong financial package, with options such as nontraditional financing terms is another asset.
Providing continued service to your client, despite the long distances involved, can be a welcome gesture of commitment. This is because Chilean businesspeople wish to overcome the isolation imposed on them by geography.
Since job security is a concern for many Chileans, expressing reassurances whenever possible will be appreciated.
It would be a mistake to bribe your Chilean business associates. Although this is standard practice in other Latin American countries, in Chile it could land you in jail.
Many Chilean women are professionally advanced, and female business travelers are likely to find acceptance and opportunities for success here. Nevertheless, “machismo” is still a strong influence; it's necessary for women exercise caution and restraint in their social and professional lives. Moreover, female business travelers should graciously accept any chivalric gestures they receive, while maintaining their professionalism at all times.
Chilean business culture is not as bureaucratic as other Latin American countries; higher-level executives have reputation for efficiency.
Usually, those in the highest positions of authority are entrusted with the final decision [i.e., the upper-level “presidente” or “gerente general”, with the “gerente” and mid to low level managers providing support]. Gestures are sometimes made toward allowing input from other ranks in the organization, so it’s important to remain patient. Moreover, it may be necessary to take several trips before the transaction concludes.
Generally, contract agreements are followed rigidly, problems are resolved swiftly, and payments are made promptly on the deadline.
When receiving a mail delivery, you are expected to tip the postal carrier. This person should receive a few pesos for each piece of mail delivered.
It’s a mistake to compare Chile to Argentina: there has been a great deal of conflict between them. Moreover, these are two distinct nations, separated by the Andes--one of the world’s most formidable natural barriers.
There are a small, class-conscious elite, and a larger middle class than in most other Latin American countries. Although extremes between rich and poor exist in this society, there is a prevailing belief that those in power are entitled to the privileges accompanying their positions. Generally, Chileans feel resigned to their existing status.
Prosperous Entertaining
Entertaining for business success
Breakfast is usually taken between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
Customarily, there is a two-hour break for lunch--the biggest meal of the day-- that can occur sometime between noon and 3:00 p.m.
A small break, known as "onces", may be taken between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. "Onces" includes bite-sized sandwiches, tea, pastries, and other snacks.
Dinner is served between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. If you are invited for drinks at a home, you will probably be invited to dinner as well.
Staying at one of the finer international hotels in Chile will help you create a good impression as a visitor.
Business entertaining usually takes place at major restaurants and hotels. There are many types of restaurants in Chile, including Italian, Mexican, and Chinese. Making the payment arrangements in advance, so that your guests will not insist on picking up the tab, is an efficient and tasteful way to host. If you are a guest, reciprocate the hospitality at a later date.
Business entertaining is usually a social event and the best policy is to let your host initiate any discussion of business. Do whatever you can to help everyone feel at ease and have a good time. It's important that you make gestures like these to demonstrate to your Chilean companions that a relationship with them is a greater priority than business. People who focus solely on work-related matters will not make friends or succeed in business here.
At parties, greet and shake hands with each person individually. Refrain from using the North American conversation starter "What do you do?" If people wish to discuss their occupation, they will eventually volunteer this information.
When invited to an individual's home, arriving 15 minutes late is considered good manners. For a dinner party, guests can arrive at least 30 minutes late.
When visiting a Chilean home, flowers or candy are standard gifts for the hostess; flowers should be sent in advance. Avoid yellow roses, as they are perceived as a sign of contempt. Moreover, purple and black flowers symbolize death.
When invited to a Chilean home, it is a thoughtful gesture to bring small gifts for any children present--particularly if you know the host fairly well. Good choices can include candy, games, and university t-shirts. If possible, select something from your own country that is not already available in Chile.
Customarily, the host or the most senior man present will be seated at the head of the table, with the guest of honour at his immediate right. The next seat of honour will be to the immediate right of either the hostess or the second-highest ranking Chilean.
When your Chilean contact proposes a toast to you, propose another in return, and include a "Salud!" or "Cheers!"
Breakfast is usually taken between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
Customarily, there is a two-hour break for lunch--the biggest meal of the day-- that can occur sometime between noon and 3:00 p.m.
A small break, known as "onces", may be taken between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. "Onces" includes bite-sized sandwiches, tea, pastries, and other snacks.
Dinner is served between 8:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. If you are invited for drinks at a home, you will probably be invited to dinner as well.
Staying at one of the finer international hotels in Chile will help you create a good impression as a visitor.
Business entertaining usually takes place at major restaurants and hotels. There are many types of restaurants in Chile, including Italian, Mexican, and Chinese. Making the payment arrangements in advance, so that your guests will not insist on picking up the tab, is an efficient and tasteful way to host. If you are a guest, reciprocate the hospitality at a later date.
Business entertaining is usually a social event and the best policy is to let your host initiate any discussion of business. Do whatever you can to help everyone feel at ease and have a good time. It's important that you make gestures like these to demonstrate to your Chilean companions that a relationship with them is a greater priority than business. People who focus solely on work-related matters will not make friends or succeed in business here.
At parties, greet and shake hands with each person individually. Refrain from using the North American conversation starter "What do you do?" If people wish to discuss their occupation, they will eventually volunteer this information.
When invited to an individual's home, arriving 15 minutes late is considered good manners. For a dinner party, guests can arrive at least 30 minutes late.
When visiting a Chilean home, flowers or candy are standard gifts for the hostess; flowers should be sent in advance. Avoid yellow roses, as they are perceived as a sign of contempt. Moreover, purple and black flowers symbolize death.
When invited to a Chilean home, it is a thoughtful gesture to bring small gifts for any children present--particularly if you know the host fairly well. Good choices can include candy, games, and university t-shirts. If possible, select something from your own country that is not already available in Chile.
Customarily, the host or the most senior man present will be seated at the head of the table, with the guest of honour at his immediate right. The next seat of honour will be to the immediate right of either the hostess or the second-highest ranking Chilean.
When your Chilean contact proposes a toast to you, propose another in return, and include a "Salud!" or "Cheers!"
Prosperous Entertaining
(Part 2)
Entertaining for business success
Chileans emphasize good table manners and will observe how you measure up. The "continental" style of dining is a must: the knife stays in the right hand and the fork remains positioned in the left. These utensils are never switched.
"Finger food" is not a part of formal meals, so it is necessary to use the utensils provided.
Always keep your hands visible when dining, with your wrists resting on the edge of the table. It is considered bad form to keep the hands concealed.
Take small bites and chew slowly. Chewing loudly, clanging silverware, scraping the plate, lip-smacking, and finger-licking are considered vulgar.
Accept everything that you are served. If you come across something that you don't like, just take a sample bite or two for the sake of politeness.
Wine should be poured with the right hand.
Before smoking, it's considered polite to offer cigarettes to your companions first.
Thank-you gifts or notes are not part of Chilean custom. After a dinner party or similar occasion, the best policy is to make a phone call expressing your thanks.
The gratuity is usually included in the bill. For exceptional service, it is polite to leave an additional 5% tip on the table. If a gratuity is not included in your bill, then a 10-15 % tip is in order.
Porters should receive a 1$ tip for each piece of luggage.
It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers.
Chileans emphasize good table manners and will observe how you measure up. The "continental" style of dining is a must: the knife stays in the right hand and the fork remains positioned in the left. These utensils are never switched.
"Finger food" is not a part of formal meals, so it is necessary to use the utensils provided.
Always keep your hands visible when dining, with your wrists resting on the edge of the table. It is considered bad form to keep the hands concealed.
Take small bites and chew slowly. Chewing loudly, clanging silverware, scraping the plate, lip-smacking, and finger-licking are considered vulgar.
Accept everything that you are served. If you come across something that you don't like, just take a sample bite or two for the sake of politeness.
Wine should be poured with the right hand.
Before smoking, it's considered polite to offer cigarettes to your companions first.
Thank-you gifts or notes are not part of Chilean custom. After a dinner party or similar occasion, the best policy is to make a phone call expressing your thanks.
The gratuity is usually included in the bill. For exceptional service, it is polite to leave an additional 5% tip on the table. If a gratuity is not included in your bill, then a 10-15 % tip is in order.
Porters should receive a 1$ tip for each piece of luggage.
It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers.
Public Behavior
Acceptable public conduct
On the whole, Chileans are a warm and affectionate people. Greetings are typically a cheerful occasion involving plenty of physical touching.
When greeting your Chilean counterpart, it is very important to offer a firm handshake while smiling and making eye contact. Moreover, ensure that you make the effort to shake hands with everyone present.
Often, women greet each other by quickly touching cheek to cheek and kissing the air.
Be aware that the group "hello" might be perceived as rude and impersonal.
Note that as friendships develop and solidify, handshakes are often followed by enthusiastic kissing, hugging, and backpatting. Usually, only close friends will give each other a modified hug or "abrazo" when greeting each other. A friendly handshake is normal for first time meetings.
You will have to speak not only at a closer distance, but also maintain eye contact as an assurance of your genuine interest.
Spanish is the official language, but most educated Chileans are fluent in English.
Bargaining is not practiced in street markets or stores. Be aware that it is illegal to sell something and not issue a receipt. The failure to issue a receipt often means that the merchant is not declaring the sale on tax reports.
Before smoking, it's considered polite to offer cigarettes to your companions first.
Slapping the right fist into a left open palm is perceived as obscene.
An open palm with the fingers separated is a gesture for "stupid."
Refrain from raising your right fist to head level, as this is a Communist sign.
Although a sufficient tip is 10%-15% in hotels and restaurants, you don't have to tip taxi drivers.
Point with your entire hand rather than the index finger.
On the whole, Chileans are a warm and affectionate people. Greetings are typically a cheerful occasion involving plenty of physical touching.
When greeting your Chilean counterpart, it is very important to offer a firm handshake while smiling and making eye contact. Moreover, ensure that you make the effort to shake hands with everyone present.
Often, women greet each other by quickly touching cheek to cheek and kissing the air.
Be aware that the group "hello" might be perceived as rude and impersonal.
Note that as friendships develop and solidify, handshakes are often followed by enthusiastic kissing, hugging, and backpatting. Usually, only close friends will give each other a modified hug or "abrazo" when greeting each other. A friendly handshake is normal for first time meetings.
You will have to speak not only at a closer distance, but also maintain eye contact as an assurance of your genuine interest.
Spanish is the official language, but most educated Chileans are fluent in English.
Bargaining is not practiced in street markets or stores. Be aware that it is illegal to sell something and not issue a receipt. The failure to issue a receipt often means that the merchant is not declaring the sale on tax reports.
Before smoking, it's considered polite to offer cigarettes to your companions first.
Slapping the right fist into a left open palm is perceived as obscene.
An open palm with the fingers separated is a gesture for "stupid."
Refrain from raising your right fist to head level, as this is a Communist sign.
Although a sufficient tip is 10%-15% in hotels and restaurants, you don't have to tip taxi drivers.
Point with your entire hand rather than the index finger.