Cultural differences between the two cultures
The United States has also influenced Mexican culture, including its political culture, except for significant differences in how voters are elected and government decisions are made. While Mexico modeled its official name after the United States and has a similar political structure, opting for a bicameral congress and a democratic republic with three branch governments: judicial, legislative, and executive, Mexico has a multi-party system while America runs a two-party system (Karandashev, 2019). The two center-left parties, the Socialist Party Revolutionary Party (PIVT) and the Party of the Democratic Revolution and the center-right National Action Party (PAN) make up the three main political parties in Mexico, while the center-left Democratic Party and the center-right Republican Party make up the two major political parties in America (Karandashev, 2019). This is an important distinction because political activism, voter turnout and loyalty, and the manner of governance affect the number of major parties in the political system.
Mexican culture is also different from American culture when it comes to language. Spanish is the national language of Mexico, brought by the Conquistadores during the colonization of Mexico, and while the United States has no official national language, English is spoken by 96% of the population; most businesses are conducted in English and to become a US citizen, applicants must be able to write, speak and read English (Karandashev, 2019, p. 112). The United States is a secular nation, although most of those who practice religion consider themselves Christians. In America, although religious traditions are respected and recognized in some institutional customs, such as sworn oaths of office with the Bible, prayers held on the House floor, and observance of religious holidays, there is a separation of church and state that is an integral part of American culture (Karandashev, 2019). The percentage of people who follow non-Christian religions such as Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism and those who consider themselves agnostic or atheist is much higher in America. More than 80 percent of Mexicans consider themselves Catholics, while only a quarter of Americans identify with that faith, despite the fact that it is the largest individual denomination in the United States (Karandashev, 2019, p. 190). Thus, religious diversity, even within the Christian faith, is much greater in America. Because of the uniformity of faith in Mexico, Roman Catholicism plays a large role in the country’s social customs and traditions.
It is necessary to examine the sphere of gender roles and masculinity in Mexico. Despite the fact that the worldview of Mexicans goes towards progressivism and a tolerant attitude, it must be said that Mexico is not characterized by tolerance towards the LGBT community. This is due to the fact that the state has a cult of masculinity, the essence of which is the manifestation of a man as a strong man who must choose his wife and protect the home (Karandashev, 2019). Despite the fact that same-sex marriages are legally allowed, it is a sensitive topic for society. Hence gender prejudices, for example, that men should be in business because they are better at it.
Regarding clothing style, time, and individualism, Mexico can be distinguished as a modern country. The style of dress is unlimited and varied; there may be elements of Mexican culture, such as large long hats (Karandashev, 2019). Everyone are free to express themselves through makeup, hobbies, and appearance, but with certain adjustments. In other words, as long as it does not contradict the culture of the country. For example, tattoos of skulls or fire, which are symbols of the holidays and Mexico in general.
When it comes to business and doing business, there are several nuances that must be taken into account. First, Mexicans are intolerant of uncertainty (Karandashev, 2019). This can be explained by the fact that society is active and reactive, so Mexican businessmen honor quick decisions and the specificity of the deal. Also worth highlighting is the intolerance of confrontation, as Mexicans have a temper. The reason for this is the cult of muscularity, which instills the psychological stereotype that men are always right (Karandashev, 2019). That is why Mexicans do not like arguments or conflicts and should be diplomatic when doing business.
Questions:
- Of the set of twelve cultural characteristics you described above, which cultural difference between the two cultures is likely to pose the greatest challenge when business teams from both cultures work together? And why?
Conflict intolerance is the most problematic characteristic for doing business. The fact is that deals are usually characterized by disagreements and changes in terms as each side seeks to benefit. The Mexican side’s inflammatory attitude complicates the process, because it limits foreign colleagues’ ability to act and dialogue in general, as they have to avoid arguments and misunderstandings.
Improving and alleviating communication problems between the two cultures
Diplomacy is essential in order to mitigate the situation. Emotionally neutral lines, charisma, and the ability to persuade to avoid unpleasant situations. In this regard, professional negotiators must be involved to make the proceedings as effective as possible.
Ethical issues that can arise when doing business between these two different cultures
American and Mexican ethical cultures are quite similar. Mexicans do not have Unocal ethical norms and habits, so there should not be a problem in this area. It is important to stress that Mexicans honor all ethical norms that Americans do. These include not being late, dressing in a businesslike manner, and communicating in a polite, businesslike manner.
References
Karandashev, V. (2019). Cross-cultural perspectives on the experience and expression of love. Springer International Publishing.