Etiquette

What are the behavioral expectations for the course participants?

Argentine culture puts a premium on seizing opportunity and adaptation. Dealing successfully with this culture requires a desire to understand alternative ways of running both businesses and personal lives, and an ability to adapt to changing situations with a positive attitude. It is up to us to make the most of whatever unexpected change occurs while we are in Mendoza.
Always remember that you represent UVA and the MSMIT program abroad. In some ways, the employees of your client companies will look up to you because of your affiliation with prestigious business organizations and the University of Virginia. Do not disappoint them!

Dress code

Think business trip. The weather will be warm/hot, and rain is unlikely.
Match the style of your clients. Some Mendocino companies are more formal than others. You will not generally see people wearing shorts, t-shirts, or athletic wear in the office.  Remember that there will be a final presentation, which usually requires business attire.

Dinners

Dinners are a major component of Argentine social and business life. They are late and long by US standards: they begin at 8-9 p.m. and last for 2-3 hours. Embrace and enjoy! Resistance is futile: the Argentine restaurant industry is not built for speed. Let us know of any dietary restrictions before departure. We will do what we can to accommodate you, but appreciate that Mendoza is famous for its meats and wines, not for its salads and arugula smoothies!

Gifts

The program will offer Jefferson cups as gifts to the clients to show our gratitude and appreciation. We recommend that you as a team purchase some 2-3 UVA-branded gifts for your clients as a sign of goodwill (some teams bring one also for their translator). The UVA bookstore is a good place to look for these - coordinate with some of your peers who live in Cville if necessary. Argentine etiquette suggests bringing these to the clients at your first meeting.