Topic 3: The ‘culture iceberg’
The third topic we addressed in the last lecture was the ‘culture iceberg’ model. This model is suited well to explain the true size of a culture using the analogy of an iceberg. It emphasizes that only the top of an iceberg is visible. The iceberg, however, is much bigger than only the seeable top of it. The real size of the iceberg only becomes visible by taking a closer look below the water surface because the major part of the iceberg is located under water.
With regard to culture it means that there are apparent things in a culture you can recognise easily and fast. For instance things like dresses, architecture, language or food. But to get an in-depth look at and an understanding of a culture (humor, values, attitudes, etc.) it is necessary to take a look below the surface.6
Topic 4: Presentation ‘Doing business in Mexico’
At the end of the last lecture, Minna delivered a speech about the topic ‘Doing business in Mexico’.
In Mexico the speech is Spanish. Mexico is a class-conscious society. The class stratifications are clearly defined. Punctuality is expected of foreign business partners. During a meeting, the negotiations move slowly. In this situation patience is important because for Mexicans, the personal relationship comes before the professional one. Before Mexicans getting down to business they first do small talk until ten to fifteen minutes.
Regarding dress, both men and women should dress conservatively. Good colours are navy and dark gray. Women should also always wear make up.
Concerning Gifts, in Mexico the business people are keen on gifts because it is not necessity to bring gifts to a meeting. When visiting a Mexican at home, a gift – like maybe flowers – is appreciate.

4 cf. Headbloom (2007): Judging Others (access:11.10.14).
5 cf. University of Minnesota (n.d.): Culture-Specific and Culture-General Learning (access: 11.10.14).
6 cf. Kwintessential (n.d.): Intercultural Training and the Iceberg Model (access: 11.10.14).

Regarding the behaviour during a meeting, it is common to shake hands or give a slight bow when the opposite is a man. If the opposite is a woman, a slight bow is common. Standing with the hands on the hips could be misinterpreted because in
Mexico this signifies anger.
Concerning dining manners, it is important to keep both hands above the table.
Customarily only men propose toasts; foreign women shouldn’t offer toasts. Leaving the table immediately after finish eating is not well-received. Further it is common to pay the restaurant bill in advance to avoid arguments about the bill.