Etiquette Project

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Etiquette Project
Table of Contents
1. Resource Articles
a. Common Classroom Etiquette and Rules for Students …………………………. 2
b. Advice: Definition of Etiquette ……………………………………………………... 5
c. 8 Most Common Etiquette Mistakes ……………………………………………………. 8
d. What Is Etiquette and Why Is It Important ……………………………………………… 10
e. Etiquette in Canada ……………………………………………………………………… 16
f. Etiquette in Mexico ………………………………………………………………………. 22
2. IB Reference Sheet
a. Design Cycle …………………………………………………………………………. 25
b. Global Context ……………………………………………………………………….. 26
c. Related Concepts ……………………………………………………………………. 26
3. Project Grading Details
a. 8th
Grade IB rubric …………………………………………………………………… 27
b. Student reflection: Applying (determining, choosing, displaying, implementing) ……………... 29
i. Using the IB learner profile for principled answer the following questions:
1. Have you been a principled person in this classroom with regard to
classroom etiquette?
2. Why/why not.
3. How can your class etiquette be improved so that it supports the learning
of our classroom community?
IB defines a principledperson as someone w ho “…actswith integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and
respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their ow n actions and the
consequences that accompany them.”
Satisfies FACS Course competencies: 1-21, 22-36
Satisfies VERSO course 8244 competencies: 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 21, 31, 33, 34, 35, 38, 41, 42, 72

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Common Classroom Etiquette and Rules
for Students
By Grace Fleming | Updated July 20, 2019
https://www.thoughtco.com/classroom-etiquette-for-students-1857554
There are a few standard rules that every student should observe at all times when it comes to
behavior in the classroom.
Respect Others
You are sharing your classroom with several other people who are just as important as you.
Don't try to make others feel embarrassed. Don't make fun of others, or roll your eyes, or make
faces when they are speaking.
Be Polite
If you must sneeze or cough, don't do it on another student. Turn away and use a tissue. Say
"excuse me."
If someone is brave enough to ask a question, don't laugh or make fun of them.
Say thank you when someone else does something nice.
Use appropriate language.
Keep Supplies Stocked
Keep tissues and other supplies in your desk so you'll have one when you need it! Don't become
a constant borrower.
When you see your eraser or your pencil supply shrinking, ask your parents to restock.
Be Organized
Messy workspaces can become distractions. Try to clean your own space often, so your clutter
doesn't interfere with the classroom workflow.
Make sure you have a space for storing supplies that must be replenished. This way, you will
know when your supplies are running low, and you won't have to borrow.
Be Prepared
Maintain a homework checklist and bring your finished homework and projects to class with
you on the due date.

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Be on Time
Arriving late to class is bad for you and it is bad for other students. When you walk in late, you
interrupt the work that has begun. Learn to be punctual. You also risk the possibility of getting
on the teacher's nerves. This is never good.
While the Teacher is Talking
 Look at the teacher to make eye contact, unless you're writing notes.
 Don't whisper.
 Don't pass notes.
 Don't throw things.
 Don't laugh.
 Don't make funny faces to make other people laugh.
When You Have a Question
 Wait for your turn to ask a question. If someone else is speaking, simply wait with your
hand raised (or whatever process your teacher requires).
 Don't say "me, next" or "oh" when you're waiting with your hand raised. You will be
noticed.
When Working Quietly in Class
 Don't hum or fidget to distract other students.
 Keep your hands and feet to yourself.
 Don't brag if you finish first.
 Don't make rude comments about another student's work or habits.
When Working in Small Groups
Respect the work and the words of your group members.
If you don't like an idea, be polite. Never say "that's dumb," or anything that would embarrass a
classmate. If you really don't like an idea, you can explain why without being rude.
Speak to fellow group members in a low voice. Don't speak loud enough for other groups to hear.
During Student Presentations
 Don't try to distract the speaker.
 Keep your eyes on the speaker.
 Don't make rude comments.
 Try to think of a question if the speaker invites the class to ask.
During Tests
 Remain quiet until everyone is finished.
 Don't get up and walk around unless it's absolutely necessary.

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Advice
Definition of Etiquette
“Consideration for the rights and feelings of others is not merely a rule
for behavior in public but the very foundation upon which social life is
built.”
― Emily Post, Etiquette 1st edition
Definition of Etiquette
The philosophy of etiquette is timeless and everlasting, whereas manners –
the outward expression of the underlying principles of etiquette – are ever-
changing. Manners, by their very nature, adapt to the times. While today’s
manners are often situational, tailored to particular circumstances and the
expectations of those around us, they remain a combination of common
sense, generosity of spirit, and a few specific guidelines or fluid “rules” that
help us interact thoughtfully. And as fluid as manners are, they all rest on the
same fundamental principles of etiquette: consideration, respect, and honesty.
Consideration
Consideration is being aware of and understanding how a situation affects
everyone involved. It is thoughtful behavior, which informs actions that will
affect others in a positive way. Consideration prompts us to help a friend or
stranger in need, to show appreciation, to offer praise.
Respect
Respect is demonstrated by actions, appearance, and words that honor and
value others, regardless of their background, race, or creed. It’s demonstrated
in all your day-to-day relations—refraining from demeaning others for their
ideas and opinions, refusing to laugh at racist or sexist jokes, putting
prejudices aside, and staying open-minded. Being inclusive is a way of being
respectful – that is, making an effort to learn about and accept others whose
backgrounds and cultures are different from one’s own. We also show respect

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not just by what we refrain from doing but also by intentional acts, such as
being on time, dressing appropriately for the occasion, acknowledging value in
the ideas and beliefs of others, or giving our full attention to the person or
people we’re with.
Self-respect is just as important as respect for others. A person who respects
herself isn’t boastful or pushy but is secure in a way that inspires confidence.
She values herself regardless of her physical attributes or individual talents,
understanding that integrity and character are what really matter.
Honesty
Honesty is acting sincerely and being truthful. Honesty compels us to choose
to act with integrity in ways that honor and respect others. It eschews the
“white lie,” which denies both consideration and respect. Honesty allows us to
apply empathy to find the positive truth and act upon it, without causing
embarrassment or pain.
Two Other Essential Qualities
Graciousness and kindness are an integral part of courteous behavior.
Graciousness is the ability to make other people feel welcome and
comfortable in your world. Kindness is much like consideration, but it also
reflects the warmth in your heart.
“Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have
that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use.”
― Emily Post
https://emilypost.com/advice/definition-of-etiquette/

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8 Most Common Etiquette Mistakes
By Debby Mayne Updated 07/09/18
https://www.thespruce.com/most-common-etiquette-mistakes-1216756
It's easy to call out other people when you see them commit manners mistakes.
Remember that everyone makes etiquette faux pas every now and then ... even
etiquette experts. The key to making things right is to apologize for whatever it
is and move on. Learn from your mistakes and try not to keep making the same
ones over and over.
Following certain rules of etiquette is essential in both social and
professional situations, so it’s a good idea to learn them. It can mean the difference
between keeping or losing friends and getting ahead in business. Just as important
is to learn what not to do.
1. Being Impolite to Anyone
Being nice to others in all scenarios is the most important rule of etiquette you can
follow. You may not know proper placement of dinnerware or when to use which
fork, but most people will forgive you for those small infractions.
However, being rude to people is something that you may not be able to undo.
People have long memories when they feel they've been wronged or treated badly.
Politeness extends to everyone you come in contact with, from the doorman of
your office or apartment building to your boss and other company executives.
Showing gratitude and respect to servers at restaurants, sales clerks at retail
outlets, and the bagger at your grocery store can make the difference in the
service person’s day. Not being nice to these people shows a lack of character on
your part.
2. Being Late
If you are one of those people who are chronically late, you are showing disrespect
for other people’s time. When you agree to show up at a certain time, be there on
time. If you are occasionally late, you will probably be forgiven if it isn’t something
you do often.
Always call and let someone know your circumstances and your estimated time of
arrival. Try to avoid doing this on a regular basis, or you might not get invited to do
things with friends.

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3. Failing to Introduce Others
When you are with two people who don’t know each other, you should always
introduce them. If you can’t remember either of their names, politely say
something like, “I’m sorry. I know we’ve met, but I can’t recall your name.” Then
use the person’s name during the introduction and afterward in conversation. If
you include something you discussed with that person in the past, it will soften
the fact that you forgot his or her name.
4. Chatting or Texting on Your Cell Phone While
Physically with Others.
Always give the person you are physically with your attention. If your cell
phone rings, or you receive a text that needs immediate response, politely excuse
yourself and keep all electronic contact brief. Then when you return to the person,
apologize and refrain from making a habit of chatting on the phone or texting when
you're with someone.
Never text while dining with others. That is rude and frustrating for other diners.
5. Failing to RSVP.
When you are invited to any event – whether it’s a dinner party or wedding – let the
host know whether or not you’ll be there as soon as possible. Failing to RSVP can
hamper the plans of the person who must organize the guest list, food, and space.
If you send regrets and later discover that you are able to make it, call the host and
ask if there it isn’t too late. Be understanding if the host has already filled your
position.
If you have accepted, and you get sick at the last minute, call the host immediately.
Never change plans if something more interesting comes along. You may never
get invited by that host again if he finds out.

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6. Being Too Self-Absorbed.
When chatting with friends, family, or coworkers, give them equal time during the
conversation. If you have a pattern of making the discussion all about you, you
may discover people walking a wide berth around you or running away when they
see you coming. You don’t want people to see you as narcissistic or self-absorbed.
The best way to have a decent conversation with someone is to ask questions
about him or her and then be attentive. If you are a good listener, chances are the
person will turn around and ask you questions. Back-and-forth conversation is
more enjoyable for both parties and will gain you favor among people you care
about.
7. Having Bad Table Manners.
In this world of people rushing around, you may have become accustomed to running
through fast food drive-thru lanes and eating on the run. Not only is this bad for digestion,
it gets you out of the habit of exercising good table manners.
When dining with others, take your time to observe proper table manners. If you are
unclear about which utensil to use, learn before you go. Don’t be in a rush while eating, or
you may wind up having accidents that could have easily been avoided.
Take time to chew your food properly, and don’t talk with your mouth full. If someone asks
you a question right after you take a bite, she most likely will understand and be willing to
wait until you chew and swallow.
After you finish eating, wait for the others. It is rude to leave the table while others are still
eating.
8. Forgetting to be Thankful.
When someone gives you a gift or does something special for you, always show
your gratitude. Immediately say, “Thank you.” When you get home, send a
brief thank you note.
If time gets away from you, don’t let that be an excuse to ignore what you should
have already done. Send a thank you note as soon as possible.

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What Is Etiquette and Why Is It Important?
By Debby Mayne Updated 05/04/19
https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-etiquette-and-why-is-it-important-1216650
The foundation of proper etiquette is behavior that is accepted as gracious and
polite in social, professional, and family situations. Good manners can mean the
difference between success and failure in many aspects of life. Knowing and
exhibiting proper etiquette is essential to any civilization.
Family Etiquette
The place to start with etiquette is at home with the family. When you get married,
you instinctively know you are better off getting along with your new in-laws, so
you show them that you are poised and gracious. You’ve also learned that your
spouse responds better when you say, “Please,” and, “Thank you,” than when you
issue an order and refuse to acknowledge cooperation. Children who are taught
good manners and to respect their parents take their lessons out into the world.
Basic etiquette rules for family members:
 Respect each other’s personal space and don't crowd them.
 Respect each other’s belongings.
 Don’t interrupt when someone else is talking.
 Be on time for dinner.
 Use polite language such as “Please” and “Thank you.”
 Don’t text or talk on your cell phone during a family meal.
 Chew with your mouth closed.
 Don’t yell or call each other names.
 Pick up after yourself so someone else doesn’t have to do it.
 Listen to Mom and Dad and do what they say.
 Be cautious when your children's images and comments on social media.
Social Etiquette
Social etiquette involves how you behave out in the public, with friends and
strangers, whether you are at someone's home, at the symphony, or in
a restaurant. If you treat your friends and neighbors with respect, you are more
likely to remain on their lists of people they trust, care about, and invite to parties. It

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also prevents you from being embarrassed later by behavior that was unbecoming
or offensive. This includes social media, which can magnify your behavior.
Basic social etiquette rules:
 Always be on time for dates and get-togethers. Showing up late is rude and
shows a lack of respect for other people’s time.
 Make eye contact when you are in a conversation with someone. Avoid looking
over the other person’s shoulder unless you see potential danger.
 Never interrupt the other person.
 Give and receive compliments graciously.
 Refuse to gossip with and about friends. After all, if you share gossip with
someone, that person will wonder what you are saying behind his or her back.
 Hold doors for anyone who seems to be struggling, including physically
challenged people and parents with young children.
 When you are invited to a party, don’t show up empty-handed. Bring a host or
hostess gift and something to share.
 If you are sick and contagious, let the other person know. It is generally best to
postpone your plans and reschedule after you are feeling better since it is rude to
knowingly expose your friends to illness.
 Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze.
 Pay your share when you are with a friend or group. If you stiff your friends, they
may not invite you again. This includes tipping.
Basic socialmedia etiquetterules:
 Never post anything on any forum that you wouldn’t want the world to see.
 Avoid put-downs, regardless of how witty you think you are.
 Don’t divulge too much information about yourself or your family. You can never
be sure who all is watching. This includes posting dates you’ll be out of town and
when you are hiring a teenage sitter to watch your children. You must protect
your family.
 Self-promotion is okay in limited amounts. There are others who need your
attention, so take some time to respond to their posts and offer praise when
needed.
 If you make a mistake on social media, own it. Offer a sincere apology and avoid
doing it again.
 Follow the rules of whatever social media you are using.

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ProfessionalEtiquette
Following professional etiquette allows others to see that you are a polite, civilized
coworker who knows how to be nice and can represent the company in a positive
way. If you don’t show good manners, you run the risk of ruining your reputation.
This can prevent you from being promoted and in some cases may even get you
fired.
Basic professional etiquette rules:
 Always arrive on time.
 Dress appropriately for your office environment.
 Never interrupt conversations unless there's an emergency.
 If you must eat at your desk, and you work in a cubicle, avoid foods with strong
odors.
 Remove papers from the copier, fax machine, and scanner after you are finished
with the task.
 Shake hands when appropriate.
 Don't become the office chatterbox because you'll annoy people while they're
working.
 Praise others for a job well done.
 Never take credit for other people’s work.
 Be friendly to clients, visitors, and guests. Offer them a comfortable seat if they
have to wait.
 Use your indoor voice and avoid yelling.
 If someone else is angry, refuse to join in an argument or rant.
 Don’t touch other people’s personal belongings.
 Observe proper etiquette with regard to personal space.
 Participate in office donations, but don’t make an issue of how much or how little
you give.
 Keep office correspondence brief and avoid interjecting personal opinions unless
it is necessary.
 Maintain a professional image when decorating your office or cubicle.
 When socializing with your coworkers, don’t do anything you don’t want to be
mentioned at the office later.

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Canadian Etiquette
http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_ca.htm
The People
The vast majority of Canadians claim European ancestry. Four in nine
Canadians claim some British ancestry and a little less than one in three have
some French ancestry. Eighty percent of the residents in Quebec have French
ancestry. Eighty percent of native French speakers live in Quebec (the others are
mostly in New Brunswick, and parts of Ontario and Manitoba). Other European
groups include Italians, Germans and Ukrainians (especially in the prairie states).
Broadly speaking, Canada has been divided into two distinct societies, one
French-speaking (see "Quebec" below) and one English-speaking. Because they
don't form as cohesive a group as French-speaking Canadians, only very general
observations can be made about English-speaking Canadians; they are generally
thought of (and consider themselves) more reserved, less aggressive and less
excitable than their neighbors to the south.
Most Canadians identify themselves very strongly with their province.
Canadians continue to wrestle with the question, "What does it mean to be
Canadian?" and take pains to differentiate themselves from citizens of the United
States.
Regional Differences
Atlantic Canada (includes the Maritimes -- Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and
Prince Edward Island -- and Newfoundland): Primarily of British descent, the
residents of the less prosperous Atlantic provinces of eastern Canada are
generally more reserved, stolid, provincial and old-fashioned. Newfoundland is
unique, with a dialect and culture that draws comparisons with the Irish and the
people of western England.
Ontario: Residents of Canada's most populous province -- the country's
economic, political and cultural colossus -- are generally thought of as more
business-like and conservative than other Canadians.
Western Canada (includes Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba): Residents of
Canada's western provinces are generally more open, relaxed, friendly and direct
than other Canadians (comparisons are often made with inhabitants of the
western United States).
British Columbia: Canada's unconventional westernmost province is seen by
Canadians as the land of the future, and has more in common with Seattle than
Toronto. Like many other western Canadians, many residents of British Columbia

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feel somewhat estranged from "easterners" (a general code word for those from
Ontario and Quebec).
Quebec (and other areas of Francophone Canada): French Canadians, and
especially the Québécois (or citizens of Quebec, pronounced "keh-beck-wah")
have a very strong sense of cultural identity and are very nationalistic. The
European influence is strongly felt in Quebec, whose people consider themselves
the "defenders of French civilization in North America." Because of their
animated good nature, Québécois are sometimes called the "Latins of the North."
The North: Residents of the sparsely populated north are seen as rugged
embodiments of the Canadian pioneer spirit.
Meeting and Greeting
 In general, Canadians are more reserved and polite than Americans, and take
matters of etiquette a little more seriously.

 Shake hands and introduce yourself when meeting Canadians for the first time.
Always shake hands firmly when meeting or departing. Eye contact is important.
 When a woman enters or leaves a room, it is polite for men to rise. Men normally
offer their hands to women.

 In Quebec, kissing on the cheeks in the French manner is quite common. When
close friends and family meet in Quebec, they use first names and kiss both
cheeks.

 An older French Canadian man may kiss the hand of a woman. Accept this
gesture graciously. A foreign man shouldn't kiss the hand of a French Canadian
woman, who would be quite shocked.

 Canadians are somewhat more formal than Americans with regard to names and
titles. Use last names and appropriate titles until invited by your Canadian hosts
or colleagues to use their first names. First names are normally used only by
close friends and family. Western Canadians may use first names more
frequently than other Canadians.

 In Quebec, coworkers of similiar status generally use first names in private, but
always last names in public. The formal "you" is almost always used in a
business setting, even after 20 years.

 Academic titles and degrees are important to French Canadians. You should
know and use them properly.

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Language
 English and French are both official languages of business in Canada. However,
virtually all international business is conducted in English.
 Most French Canadians speak and understand English, but prefer to use French.
Check ahead of time to find out if an interpreter will be necessary.
Body Language
 Generally speaking, Canadians are more reserved than Americans. Canadians
generally don't touch very much when conversing. Maintaining a certain amount
of personal space is important.

 French Canadians are generally more animated and expressive than other
Canadians.

 Take off your hat or sunglasses when speaking with someone.
 Some gestures have different meanings in Quebec. For example, "thumbs down"
is considered offensive in Quebec, as is slapping an open palm over a closed fist.
Like the rest of their countrymen and women, French-Canadians use the
"thumbs up" sign to mean "okay. "The "okay" sign made with the index finger
and thumb means "zero" in Quebec.

 In Quebec, sit straight with your legs crossed at the knee, or with your knees
together. Don't sit with your legs apart, or with your feet propped up on tables or
chairs.

 It's considered bad form by many in Quebec to talk with your hands in your
pockets.

 Sneeze or blow your nose as quietly as possible using a handkerchief or tissue. If
possible, leave the room. Do not yawn or scratch in public. Toothpicks, nail
clippers, and combs are never used in public.
Corporate Culture
 Punctuality is demanded for business meetings and social occasions. If a conflict
arises, you are expected to let your Canadian counterpart know immediately.
That said, Canadians are not as obsessed with time as Americans.
 Business cards are commonly exchanged in Canada.
 For Quebec, print your business cards in English or French, including your
academic degree(s) and/or title. A double-sided business card (one side in
English, one side in French) is best.

 Canadians get down to business quickly. Meetings are well-organized, and
extraneous discussion is kept to a minimum. A premium is placed on time.

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 Business communication is quite direct in Canada, but more reserved than in the
United States. Letters and telephone calls should be direct and succinct.
Pleasantries are dispensed with very quickly.

 Business culture varies somewhat throughout Canada, depending on the region.
 Although the relationship between Canada and the United States is generally
quite good, some Canadians may be wary about the intentions of American
businesses and put off by what they perceive as American arrogance. Some
Canadians may dislike the American “hard sell” approach.
Dining and Entertainment
 To beckon a waiter in Quebec, quietly to say “Monsieur” or “S’il vous plait. Say
“Mademoiselle” to beckon a waitress. Never beckon a waiter or waitress by
snapping your fingers or shouting.

 Business entertainment is common, but the focus usually remains on business.
The person who invites is normally expected to pay.

 Etiquette and formalities are more important in Canada than in the United
States.

 While continental-style table manners are employed in Quebec, American style
table manners are seen in other parts of the country.

 Eating while walking or standing on the street in Quebec is considered bad form.
 Never arrive early for a social occasion. Opt, instead, for being “fashionably late.”
Showing up early at a bar or disco in Quebec (at, say, 10 o’clock) immediately
marks you as an “Anglo.”
Dress
 Generally speaking, Canadians dress more conservatively (and more formally
when going out) than their American neighbors, although practices vary by
region. Dress in Vancouver, for example, is somewhat more casual; in Toronto
more British. French Canadians dress in a more relaxed European style than their
fellow Canadians.

 For business meetings, men should wear suits and ties; women should wear
conservative suits or dresses.

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Gifts
 Bring flowers, fine wine or chocolates for the hostess when invited to a Canadian
home. Avoid red roses (associated with romantic love) and white lilies
(associated with funerals).
Helpful Hints
 Do your homework about Canada. Most Americans are appallingly ignorant of
Canadian history, culture and geography.

 Recognize that important regional differences exist in Canada and prepare to
adapt.

 When in Quebec, learn a little French; Québécois greatly appreciate it when you
take the effort to talk to them in their native language.

 Do not compare Canada with the United States.

 Do not use the term “Native Americans” to refer to indigenous peoples. Many
Canadians find the term offensive. Canadians refer to members of these groups
as “people of the First Nations.”

 Do not take sides in debates about contentious national issues (especially when
they concern such issues the status of Quebec, the place of the French and
English languages in Canadian society, etc.).
How to set an informal table

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Mexican Etiquette
http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_mx.htm
The People
Mexico is a very class-conscious society where social stratifications are well-
defined. Upper class Mexicans will not dirty their hands with tasks they find beneath
them. A sense of fatalism is quite strong among many Mexicans, who feel that their
path through life is largely preordained. Macho attitudes are inculcated in Mexican
males almost from birth, and machismo plays a pervasive role in shaping Mexican
culture.
Meeting and Greeting
 Shake hands or give a slight bow when introduced.
 Bow when greeting a Mexican woman. Shake hands only if she extends her hand
first.
Body Language
 Mexicans generally stand close together when conversing. Don’t show signs of
discomfort, which would be considered rude by your Mexican counterpart.
 Mexicans often “hold” a gesture (a handshake, a squeeze of the arm, a hug) longer
than Americans and Canadians do.
 Don’t stand with your hands on your hips; this signifies anger. It is considered rude
to stand around with your hands in your pockets.
Corporate Culture
 Punctuality is expected of foreign businesspeople. Your Mexican counterpart may be
late or keep you waiting. Thirty minutes past the scheduled meeting time is
considered punctual by Mexicans.
 Spanish is the language of business. You may need to hire an interpreter
(preferably a native speaker who understands the language as it is spoken in
Mexico).
 Meet with top executives first. Top-level Mexican executives may not attend
subsequent meetings, which often take place with middle-level management and
technical people. Don’t feel insulted; this shows that discussions are proceeding
positively.
 Negotiations move slowly. Be patient. For Mexicans, the building of a personal
relationship comes before the building of a professional one.
 Expect approximately ten to fifteen minutes of small talk before getting down to
business.

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 If offered something to drink (usually coffee), don’t refuse. This would be seen as
an insult.
 Take some time for consideration before agreeing to anything. Quick decisiveness is
often seen as hasty.
 A promise does not mean that your request will be carried out. You should always
ask for written confirmation of any agreement or commitment.
 Management or other important people may sometimes make unreasonable or
overly aggressive demands to demonstrate their importance within or to their own
group. Be aware of such hidden agendas.
 Personalize everything. Explain how all proposals will benefit a Mexican’s country,
community, family and, most important, the Mexican personally.
 Deal-making almost never occurs over the phone (and rarely by letter). Mexicans
prefer to do business in person.
 Your local contact person or representative is very important and should be chosen
very carefully. A low-level representative will be taken as an affront by status-
conscious Mexicans, who will assume that you are not really serious.
 The status of your hotel accommodations, the quality of your clothes and watch,
and whether or not you arrive in a chauffeured limousine or in a taxi, etc. will be
critically appraised by your Mexican counterparts.
 Be persistent! Don’t give up if you don’t receive a response to your phone calls or
letters right away or if your meetings are continually postponed or canceled. If you
give up, your Mexican counterparts might assume that you weren’t serious in the
first place.
Dining and Entertainment
 Business entertainment is very important and it is during these events that
personal relationships should be developed.
 Always keep both hands above the table.
 Don’t leave the table immediately after you are finished eating.
 Don’t show up on time for a social engagement – you will be the only one who
does, and will most likely be waiting for a very long time (possibly hours).
 To reciprocate, invite your Mexican counterparts to dinner at a nice restaurant
(French or Italian are your best bets). Pay in advance to avoid arguments about the
bill.
 Businesspeople are often invited to visit the home of their Mexican counterparts. On
your first visit to a Mexican home, it is best to wear business attire unless
specifically told otherwise.

24 -
Dress
 Men should always wear a shirt and tie, except at casual affairs. Both men and
women should dress conservatively. Recommended colors are navy and dark gray.
 Women should always wear make-up.
Gifts
 While gift giving is not always a necessity when doing business in Mexico, gifts are
much appreciated. Suggested initial gifts include non-personal items with your
corporate logo.
 Flowers should always be given when visiting a Mexican home. It's OK to have
them sent beforehand, or to bring them with you. If you have them sent, make
sure that they arrive before you do.
Helpful Hints
 Any attempt to speak Spanish is appreciated by your Mexican counterparts and is
seen as a gesture of goodwill. Demonstrating knowledge and appreciation of
Mexican culture wins friends.
 Mexicans are very proud of their independence and have a very strong sense of
national identity and pride. Never compare the way things are done in Mexico with
the way they are done in the United States.
 Deadlines are often little more than (very) general target dates.
 Note differences in class and status in Mexico, for such differences are important.
 Little things count. Not saying good-bye, for example, may well offend and
adversely affect your relationship to a much greater extent than it would in the
United States.
Especially for Women
 Women should prepare for some difficulty when doing business in Mexico. Because
some Mexican businessmen you encounter may not have had many dealings with
women in positions of authority, you should demonstrate your competence, skill
and authority.
 Talk and behavior considered sexist and inappropriate in the United States may well
have to be endured in Mexico.
 Mexican men, business colleagues included, will pay foreign businesswomen many
compliments and may even be flirtatious. Graciously accept such banter -- it is
usually done with the utmost respect -- while firmly reminding your male Mexican
counterparts that you are a businesswoman.
 Foreign businesswomen should not invite Mexican businessmen to dinner unless
their spouses also come along. If invited out to dinner or to socialize by a male
Mexican colleague, a businesswoman should make it clear that no opportunity for
romance exists. Appearances are important.

29 -
Have you been a principled person in this classroom with regard to classroom etiquette? Why/why not.
How can your class etiquette be improved so that it supports the learning of our classroom community?
IB defines a principled person as someone who “…acts with integrity and honesty, with a strong
sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities.
They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.”

Etiquette Project

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