249DO’S AND DON’TS
DO’S
Greet those you know or are introduced to with a kiss on
the cheek for women or with a handshake between men
if it is a casual setting. In business meetings, shake hands
regardless of the person’s gender.
Go out of your way to greet someone you run into. (Waving,
then walking on is not enough.)
Make it a point to ask your Chilean friends and colleagues
about their families.
Bring a gift, such as flowers or chocolate, for your hostess
when invited to dinner.
Invite your Chilean friends home for dinner at least once (this
is preferable to taking them out to a restaurant or bar).
Arrive about 15 minutes late for a social event.
Expect to eat dinner late, usually not before 9:00 pm.
Dress well, even to informal events. Jeans should really be
worn only to an asado (picnic).
Try to use any Spanish you have learned; it will be greatly
appreciated.
Remove your hat when indoors.
Say you must be going about 10 minutes before you
actually get up to leave.
Escort a woman all the way home after an evening out (if
you are a man), even if you are merely friends.
Pay for dinner for anyone you’ve invited out to dinner, no
matter how informally.
Arrive on time for a business meeting.
Conduct business in a formal setting, i.e., at the office.
Use Usted (the formal ‘you’) with business associates and
those you have just met.
Get a licencia (doctor’s note) if you miss work due to
illness.
Tip just about everyone who serves you: 10 per cent for
waiters; some small change for gas station attendants,
grocery store baggers and cuidadores de autos (people who
watch your parked car).