Latinos, especially those coming from Mexico or Central America, perceive the workplace as a place deserving enormous respect. Many show this respect by staying quiet and never questioning their superiors, even when they are uncomfortable with what has been asked of them. Workers in the United States, on the other hand, are taught to think independently and that a key way to advance at work is to express their opinions. Non-Hispanic employers may consider Hispanic workers with this background to be good employees, but lacking in leadership qualities that could warrant a promotion.
Employees should always respect and obey their superiors, but should not be afraid to express their opinions in a respectful manner.
The American work culture is more formal than what someone who has worked in Latin America may be accustomed to. In the United States, employees often avoid “mixing work and pleasure.” A relaxed and joking manner on the job could be misinterpreted by American employers and co-workers. The United States also has very strict laws that prohibit behavior that could be interpreted as sexual harassment or discriminatory.
Flirting and using playful nicknames, such as “gordo, flaco, gringo, mi amor, negrito,” etc. can easily be misinterpreted and should be avoided on the job in the United States. Chatting about personal life on the job, even during breaks, should also generally be avoided.
Salutations are much different in the United States than in Latin America, where a hug or a kiss on the cheek often accompanies a hello or goodbye.
Employees should observe how company members greet or leave their co-workers. Generally, a handshake is the only physical salutation used in the workplace.
Companies in the United States put much more emphasis on privacy than Latin American companies. Companies are limited by law as to the personal information they can ask potential employees. Job applicants will not be asked about their race, gender, religion, marital status, age, disabilities, ethnic background, country of origin, sexual preferences or age during an interview and should not divulge such information voluntarily. Employers that offer Employee Assistance Programs — programs that help employees deal with personal issues such as health problems, financial planning, substance abuse, etc. — operate under a high level of confidentiality.
In return, employees are expected to keep information about the companies they work for to themselves, and not to divulge even apparently insignificant details.
Punctuality is very important in the U.S. work force, and essential for a business to function in the competitive U.S. market. Latinos already have a reputation for disregarding the time.
Be on time in the United States, at least at work. Many companies operate under the mandate that “time is money.”
In the United States, many people look at their work as much more than a way to earn money. Some people, especially at the management level, view their work as the focus point of their lives.
Employees should demonstrate a commitment and motivation toward their jobs that is not exclusively focused on their paychecks.
