Mexico City City Guide - Business Etiquette

Machismo is still at the heart of the Mexican ethos and Mexicans believe in the differences between the sexes rather than their equality. The Mexican business world is generally a male domain and, although women are making progress, the top jobs still tend to be held by men. Business attire is very formal – men wear suits and women's clothing should be well tailored and conservative in style. While many people speak some English, it is considered courteous for businesspeople to speak a few words of Spanish, and for detailed discussions an interpreter may be required. It is important to bear in mind that in Mexico 'yes' does not always mean yes, as Mexican social etiquette makes it difficult to say 'no'.

In Mexico City, a lot of business is conducted over a meal, although it is more common for negotiations to take place during a long business breakfast than a lunch. It is polite to accept a drink with your host and customary to shake hands with everyone upon arrival and departure. Business cards are used extensively and it is a good idea to have the cards printed in Spanish and English and to bring plenty of them. Mexicans attach great importance to professional titles – doctor, profesor, licenciado (lawyer or graduate) and ingeniero (engineer) – and it is courteous to address them by their title. Etiquette includes small talk before getting into business.

The concept of time is fairly flexible, yet while guests might arrive an hour late to social events (to arrive on time is actually considered quite rude), punctuality is observed for most government appointments and functions. In Mexico City, businesses generally open between 0900 or 0930 and work continues until 1900, with a long lunch beginning at 1400 or later. In government offices, work begins at about 1000, with a lunch break beginning at 1400 or 1500, with staff not returning until 1700 or 1800 to work into the evening until 2100.