Cheek Held High

For my first ever blog post, I’ll share a story that hopefully shows what Detours is meant to be. I most definitely do not have it all figured out, but I’m putting myself out there, sharing the lessons I learn along the way, and remembering to laugh at myself when things get a little messy. Enjoy!

As you may already know, Latin American cultures are known for greeting others by giving them a kiss on the cheek. I was born in Venezuela, so this isn't news to me. What I didn't know was that this greeting also extends to the workplace, at least in Mexico.

I am on an international work assignment that has taken me to the beautiful Mexico City for six months.  As I was introduced to my new coworkers during my first day on the job, I firmly stretched my hand, ready to give the “I’m confident, hard working, and ready to do great things” handshake that we've all practiced so much. They weren't having it. Every person I extended my hand to either ignored it and went for a kiss on the cheek, or we engaged in this awkward handshake cheek-dance thing.

I must have met at least 30 people in a matter of 60 minutes. Eventually I had figured out the greeting and was walking around like a pro. If only it would have taken me a little longer to pick up…

I made my way down the hall and was introduced to another person in the office. Being the natural greeter than I had become (10 minutes prior), I led with my cheek. Turns out, this wasn't just another greeting – this was my boss’s boss’s boss. You know, the guy running the show. Apparently, you don’t lead with your cheek when you meet the guy running the show. The moment I stepped back, I instantly knew I had done something odd; everyone had gone dead silent. Mortified, all I could do was laugh, and while blushing my face off, I frankly told him that this whole greeting thing was still confusing to me. Turns out, he’s a pretty cool guy. We laughed it off and continued meeting people while I tried to hide the embarrassment on my face. That’s the moment I decided I needed to learn the culture, and I needed to do it quickly before I unknowingly embarrassed myself in a bigger way.

Do you remember the first time that you had dinner at your boyfriend or girlfriend’s house? Remember how aware you were of every single move you made? Think back to how careful you were to not say anything offensive or accidentally drop the f-bomb when you did something totally embarrassing. Even with all the nerves, you sat on the edge of your seat, listening to every word, learning as much as you could about this new family, attempting to charm the parentals, while simultaneously trying not to piss off the brother or sister. You kept an open mind, and hoped with all your heart that they did they same. I bet you remember that day like it was yesterday!

That’s how I can best describe what first coming into a new culture can feel like. It can be uncomfortable, and you may possibly insult someone unknowingly, but more often than not, you’ll get the hang of it in no time! Here are a few tips to get you on your way to being an expert in your new home away from home.

While working or studying abroad, it is so important to be observant. Note how people interact with each other; are their conversations brief and to the point, or do they take time to talk about personal matters before asking for a favor? A meal can tell you so much about a culture. Do people take their time during lunch breaks, do they go for walks together after their meals, or are they eager to get back to work?

Be aware of colloquialism, this one can get you in trouble! My “Venezuelan Spanish” is very different than the Spanish spoken in Mexico, and already more than a few times, I've stuck my foot in my mouth. I could have never imagined that the Venezuelan phrase for “what do you feel like having for lunch” could be misconstrued as something completely inappropriate to ask your friends in Mexico. Oops.

Your favorite high school class is back! Make sure to brush up on the country’s history, as well as their political and economic condition. This will help you understand a lot of the situations you may find yourself in during your stay. When you walk into Starbucks for your weekly dose of Very Berry Hibiscus you may very well find an armed, bullet proof vest-wearing cop hanging out by the barristas. This unusual situation for you could be that country’s normal. Be very aware of safety issues and try to blend in.

Be observant, learn, and then learn some more. As a guest in a new country, it’s important to take the time to understand the culture. Not only will you benefit from this new knowledge, but people will be more receptive to you once you embrace their traditions. You’ll have a lot more fun when your new friends are taking you to all the local spots (sans your neon fanny pack).

During your amazing experience abroad, be open-minded and learn to laugh at yourself when you do mess something up. It won’t always be easy, but it will sure make for a great adventure so embrace it, and learn to love every minute of it, because it will be over before you know it. And if you ever feel embarrassed, remember that one girl who kissed her boss’s boss’s boss on the first day on the job – hopefully that will cheer you up.

Here are a few pictures from my first couples of weeks exploring Mexico City. I hope to share more (hopefully less embarrassing) stories during my six months here!