Costa Rica Small Business- Expect the Expected
Small Business- Culture and Language
For many small business owners, this type of hands-off business approach might sound ideal, but they need to understand that they may be handing off operations to a native Costa Ricanor Ticowho was raised in a culture that doesnt necessarily mirror the here-and-now attitude of, say, the U.S. and Canada.
Always keep in mind that this is Costa Rica not the U.S., Mickley remarks. Don’t ever yell at the Ticos or demand anything from them. It will get you nowhere. They shut down, stare at you and youll never get what you want. Expressions like, It would be much better if you arrived on time work better than You’re late again! Why are you late this time?”
Donna Mickley
This isnt necessarily the fault of either party, but from the gringo side of things, not understanding or speaking Spanish is a big no-nosomething Mickley knows all to well. Spanish isnt my first language and its hard to gain the respect of employees and vendors when you sound like a moron speaking in broken Spanish. Not to mention that all of your legal paperwork, bookkeeping and tax returns are also all in Spanish, she says.
And then there are the cultural issues. Costa Rica is a relatively traditional country, especially outside major metropolitan areas such as San Jose. Because of this, women may have a more difficult time earning the respect of Tico menalthough Mickley has learned a few tricks to overcome this.
The consensus here is that women belong in the home and never know as much as men do. But playing the helpless woman who needs their help will get you everywhere. Also, flirting with them, no matter how distasteful you may find it, is useful, she notes.
Although much of this may sound like a deal breaker, it doesnt necessarily have to be. Mickley simply advises potential gringos thinking of opening a small business in Costa Rica to remain patient.
Expect to be put off. Nothing will happen in a timely mannerthats just part of life here. And a huge part of keeping your sanity when doing business in Costa Rica is to simply accept it, she notes.
Jim Utslers other articles:
Costa Rica: An Investment Opportunity for Hispanic Business
Demographics and Tastes Can Be Key to Success
