Columbia ::

TEST YOUR CULTURAL AGILITY
Country: Columbia

Multiple Choice:

1. In a business context most Colombians would like a boss who is:
a) Someone strong enough to make decisions and carry them through but not doesn't impose
b) Decisive and domineering, to make sure all goes well at all times
c) Hands-off but available when needed in a crisis situation
d) Can provide a friendly and light-hearted environment to work in

2. Colombian managers impress their staff according to the level of their:
a) Eloquence and erudition
b) Accomplishments and education
c) Humor and cordial behavior
d) attention to exacting details

3. The following must be avoided at all times when working with Columbians:
a) Jokes
b) Loss of face
c) Apologies lacking sincerity
d) Discussions about Venezuelans

4. Americans should be careful not to do the following when working with Columbians:
a) indirectly suggesting situations rather than getting directly to the point
b) Glossing over the details, because it conveys that you don't care enough
c) Generalizing situations
d) depending only on facts and figures to advance their cause

5. Unlike other Latin businesspeople, Colombians:
a) Control meetings in a calm manner
b) Constantly interrupt each other with several people speaking at once
c) Believe that the truth is best explained through facts, figures and specifics
d) Management relies on subordinates to make all final decisions

True or False:

6. Proposals are normally made first by the Colombians, when they are on their home ground. When abroad, they would expect the other side to initiate.

7. If Colombians disagree they will express themselves indirectly and you need to read between the lines.

8. Confrontation is common in Colombia and achieves better results than skirting around an issue.

9. It is normal for Colombians to ask a stronger company to make certain concessions to facilitate deals.

10. Put a great emphasis on what is said, not what is communicated through body language.

Email us your answers at stuart@global-context.com, and we'll let you know how you did.

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