Language

Be aware of sensitivities when discussing race and ethnicity.

Relationships

Mexico scores high on the power distance and uncertainty index, low on the individualism index, and higher than average on the masculinity index. Socioeconomic class and race are often intertwined in Mexico. Courtesy, protocol, and respect are universally important across all socioeconomic levels. Mexicans are very aware of dress, appearances and style.

Business climate

Foreign businesspeople may experience quite different working environments that vary based on the region. In Mexico City, mid- and senior-level Mexican businesspeople tend to be well-educated, more conservative, and formal. In Monterrey, businesspeople typically operate in a fast-paced environment where a direct communication style and quick results are valued. Focus on creating an open environment and maintaining communication within the company to ensure that thee are no barriers due to gender stereotypes.

The Pew Global Attitudes Project is an interactive database that allows users to explore public opinion trends in 55 countries on topics ranging from attitudes towards the U.S. to peoples assessments of their own lives to views about globalization, democratization and extremism and other important issues.

Mexico ranks as no. 72 (of 180 countries) on Transparency International’s 2008 Corruption Perceptions Index.