Good Neighbors: Communicating with the Mexicans (Interact Series)

Although linked by powerful economic, political, and cultural ties, the citizens of the United States and Mexico differ immensely in what they believe and how they behave.In this revised edition of Good Neighbors: Communicating with the Mexicans, John Condon sorts through these differences, blending historical facts and practical advice for U.S. citizens. Learn how people from both Mexico and the U.S. assess each other and how they differ in terms of age, gender, sense of individualism and identity, verbal and nonverbal behavior, the importance of family, the appreciation of time, and more.A great primer for those communicating with Mexicans on a personal or professional level, Good Neighbors helps foster good relationships between residents on both sides of the border.Rarely do books grow in importance in their subsequent editions. John Condon's Good Neighbors is one that increases in value for our times. This brief text does not deal exhaustively with all the facets of Mexican culture, but it does sort out and address in real depth critical historical, social, and practical facets of Mexican culture, illuminating where our values and communication styles run afoul of each other. It contrasts Mexican culture brilliantly with that of the 'norteamericanos' and shows how the differences set the scene for misunderstandings on the personal level as well as in political and economic affairs. Rooted in solid historical fact, Good Neighbors dissolves our assumptions about Mexico and its people and about the U.S.A. and assists us with insights and information that can make a difference in how we deal with each other.-George Simons, Ph.D., Cultural Diversity at Work Newsletter ContentsForeword to the First EditionPreface to the Second EditionPreface to the First EditionIntroduction1 The Role of History2 Taking Stock of One Another3 Varieties of Individualism, North and South4 The Supreme Importance of the Family5 Sex Roles and Sexuality6 In Mexico Differences Make a Difference7 The Truth and Nothing But... But...8 A Manner of Speaking9 North Americans Are Corpses!10 Actions Speak Louder than Words11 Time12 Special Concerns of Managers13 Conclusion14 Some Practical AdviceRecommended Readings