Business in Peru
Conversation
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Always start with small talk.
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Do not refer to citizens of the United States as Americans; refer to them as North Americans. Most Latin Americans are sensitive to this point as they feel that the term includes them.
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If a Peruvian speaks English to you, stay in English, they may be trying to practice their English with you. This is, however, less common as most Peruvians only speak Spanish, so you may need a translator.
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The best thing you can do in conversation is to show genuine curiosity and interest in Peruvian culture, history, and cuisine.
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It is also appreciated and respected to enjoy the local food and traditions. This can open up channels of communication.
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Appropriate topics of conversation include: family and children, local traditions and cuisine, sights you’ve seen in Peru (such as Machu-Picchu), appreciation of wealth of Peruvian history, art, and culture, food and restaurants you are visiting, soccer.
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Inappropriate topics of conversation include: government and politics, religion, terrorist activity or drug trafficking, a person’s ancestry (especially if it is Indian), criticism of Peru or Peruvian ways, prices you paid for Peruvian items.
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Peruvians tend to speak more indirectly than directly. They will imply what they want to say instead of actually saying it, avoid confrontations, and always maintain composure. They do not say what they are thinking.
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People in the urban areas are slightly more direct in their communication than people from rural areas.