7. Stereotypes - 'Is it a challenge that….?' We have asked the surveyors for their stereotypes of Mexicans and Nordics. This section has a fun and intended provoking character. It can however be useful by pointing out issues that are potentially problematic, or at least worth paying attention to in a corporation. It may be noted, that we actually didn't ask IF the various statements were true, but merely if they were causing a problem. Hence given correct responses from the respondents 'yes' will indicate that it's a problem and therefore also true, whereas 'no' could equally mean 'it's true but not a problem' or simply 'it's no problem because it's not true'.
Nordics are punctual – Mexicans are late Both groups agree that it is a challenge that Mexicans are often late. The Mexicans generally do not think that it is a challenge that the Nordics are punctual, whereas the Nordics actually to some degree see this as a challenge. So overall the Mexican and Nordics seem to have different standards of how important it is to be on time or even more important; what it means to be on time. This is obviously a potentially problematic difference that should be considered, when creating collaborations between Mexican and Nordic organisations. (Figures 23, 24)
Mexicans don't say 'NO'. Both Mexican and Nordics agree that it is a challenge that Mexicans are generally not very clear and assertive when they disagree with something/someone, and that they find it difficult to defend their point of view. In sum, the Mexicans are viewed as submissive and not good at saying no. (Figures 25, 26, 27)
Nordics think they are rude, but the real challenge is to give positive feed-back. The Nordics don’t think that it is a problem, that they are generally not interested in giving feedback and congratulating the team when accomplishing goals – the Mexicans on the other hand disagree, and see this as a challenge! The Nordics can appear rude when asking for things – the Nordics see this as a problem, whereas the Mexicans don’t. (Figures 28, 29)
Nordics think they understand Mexican culture - the Mexicans doubt it The Nordics don’t think, that it is a challenge that only Latins truly understand the meaning of “mañana” – the Mexicans on the other hand, think that it is a challenge. It seems that the Nordics think that they know the Mexican culture as well as their impact on it. But more importantly, it seems that the Mexicans don’t totally agree with the Nordics’ perceptions, but actually see things differently. (Figure 30)
Some stereotypes doesn't exist In three questions there are no real hit from the many respondents. The Mexicans think that Mexicans don't prioritize well, but the Nordics don't find it a problem. The Nordics think it's some kind of a challenge that Nordics like improvise while working, but the Mexicans don't find it a challenge. Finally neither Mexicans nor Nordics find it a challenge that Nordics in democratic fashion treats everybody equal OR they don't really recognise the behaviour at all. (Figures 31, 32, 33). 22 Copyright Human House A/S