A FEW USEFUL PHRASES

BUSINESS CULTURE

In Argentina, business practices exhibit regional variations. The dynamic business community in Buenos Aires is known for its assertiveness and a developed sense of polychronism, which may be disconcerting for those accustomed to the more methodical approach of northern Europeans. Priorities often lead to flexible timetables. Conversely, businesspeople from smaller provincial towns tend to be more reserved and less overtly emotional, finding their counterparts in Buenos Aires somewhat arrogant.

Similar to many other countries, connections often outweigh qualifications in Argentina. The concept of acomodo (“comfort”) emphasizes the importance of knowing the right people to secure opportunities. Jobs obtained through connections (acomodados) often come with a degree of flexibility due to the emotional and personal attachment Argentinians have to their work.

Argentina, following the Latin culture, adopts a bureaucratic approach to business. Negotiations are not hasty; Argentinians prefer taking their time and believe that nearly any aspect of a contract can be renegotiated unless urgency demands otherwise. This flexibility extends to a willingness to cut corners and employ creative solutions in the face of sudden changes.

Similar to their Italian and Spanish ancestors, Argentinians prioritize personal relationships over strict adherence to rules. Business transactions are often based on friendships rather than a strictly contractual focus. Visitors from more formal contexts are advised to consider business scenarios in terms of personal implications, as success in negotiations often involves building relationships through small talk on topics like football or current affairs.

LEADERSHIP AND DECISION-MAKING

Argentinian business culture traditionally associates seniority with length of service, utilizing extensive titles, and concentrating decision-making at the top level. While there is a growing trend towards a more achievement-oriented structure, especially in international organizations influenced by globalization, hierarchical systems persist. The boss (el jefe) commands deference, reflecting the country’s family-oriented culture.

Smaller Argentinian organizations, though more flexible, may still adhere to a patriarchal structure. Favorable treatment of staff issues, especially those related to family, is more common in such environments. Economic challenges and increased union activity have, however, tempered leniency in larger organizations.

TEAMWORK

The traditionally individualistic mentality in Argentina is gradually giving way to a more cooperative approach, driven by external market forces. Successful team outcomes require clear direction, as Argentinians are accustomed to top-down guidance. Empowerment and autonomy may need monitoring, with occasional nudges to ensure results.

While Argentinians are generally professional and knowledgeable about their core competencies, assembling a team of individual experts may hinder collective synergy. Achieving a harmonious balance between individual expertise and collaborative efforts is crucial for successful teamwork.

MEETINGS AND NEGOTIATIONS

Punctuality is expected in business meetings, with a courtesy call if running late. However, it’s common for the more senior party to keep others waiting. Confirming appointments a few days in advance is advisable.

Despite the requirement for English proficiency in many organizations, negotiations might still benefit from interpreters, as language comfort may not align with negotiation expertise. Trust-building, often initiated through small talk and socializing, lays the groundwork for successful business discussions.

Argentinians are less narrowly focused than some cultures, leading negotiations to occasionally diverge into seemingly irrelevant topics. A flexible approach, focusing on both business and personal aspects, is preferred over a rigid, hard-sell strategy. Contract finalization may involve last-minute changes, reflecting the dynamic nature of Argentinian negotiations.

THE LANGUAGE

Spanish in Argentina, differing in accent and some grammar and vocabulary aspects, is distinct from European Spanish. Unique pronunciation of sounds like “ll” and aspirated “s” characterizes Argentinian Spanish. Regional accents vary, with Porteños speaking louder and faster. Language proficiency is recommended for effective communication, especially in informal settings.

LEARNING SPANISH

Spanish, spoken by over 500 million globally, is rich and expressive, albeit having some complexities. Argentinian Spanish schools cater to foreigners, with daily life providing ample learning opportunities. Basic language tips, including the two forms of “to be” (“ser” and “estar”), are essential for effective communication.

Spanish is pronounced as written, with vowel sounds being pure (i.e. one sound only per vowel, unlike English, where the “u” in “huge” consists of two sounds).

a Pronounced as in “have.”
c Pronounced soft as in “city” before “e” or “i” and hard as in “can” before any other letter.
ch Always pronounced as in “chair.”
e Pronounced as the “e” in “egg.”
g Pronounced as the “ch” in “loch” before “i” or “e” and hard as in “go” in all other cases.
h This is a silent consonant with no exceptions. The aspirated “h” sound is not used for this letter in Spanish.
i Pronounced as the “ee” in “sheep.”
j Pronounced as the “ch” in “loch.”
ll Pronounced as the “s” in “leisure.” This is one of the main sounds that differentiates Argentinian Spanish from most other forms of the language.
ñ Pronounced as in “new.”
r “R”s are sometimes rolled and on occasions flicked. Double “r”s are always rolled.
s Pronounced as in “see.” However, Argentinians tend to drop the “s” sound for an aspirated “h” sound, particularly when it appears in the middle of a word. The extent to which this is done varies regionally. Most people will pronounce the Spanish for “listen to me” (escuchame) with an aspirated “s.”
t As in all Latin languages, the “t” is not aspirated; i.e. it is formed by placing one’s tongue slightly between the front teeth, thus avoiding the characteristic hissing English “t” sound.
u Always pronounced as the “oo” in “room.”
v Strictly speaking, this is pronounced in the same way as in English. However, Argentinians tend to pronounce it in the same way as a soft “b”; i.e. by placing both lips together but still allowing some air to pass through them. It is not uncommon for people to refer to “v” as “b corta” (“short b”) and “b” as “b larga” (“long b”), using the actual “b” sound in both cases!
y This is another characteristic Argentinian sound. Similar to the “ll” sound, it is pronounced as the “s” in “leisure.”
z This is pronounced the same way as an “s”. The characteristic European “th” (as in “thumb”) sound is not used in Argentina, or indeed in other Latin American forms of the language.

SLANG

“Lunfardo,” Argentinian slang, varies regionally and incorporates Italianized words. Porteños’ distinctive accent, vocabulary, and expressions, such as “che,” are challenging to teach formally. Informal use of “che” in business contexts should be avoided.

Hola- Hello (also used when answering the phone)
Buen día/Buenos días- Good morning (literally, Good day)
Buenas tardes- Good afternoon
Buenas noches- Good evening/Good night
¿Cómo estás? ¿Cómo andás? ¿Cómo te va?- How are you? (informal)
¿Cómo le va? ¿Cómo está? How are you? (formal)
Por favor- Please
Gracias- Thank you
De nada- You’re welcome
Perdón- Excuse me/Sorry (a simple “sori”—from the English “sorry”—is often heard)
¡Salud!- Cheers/Bless you (as when someone sneezes)
Chau/Hasta luego/Adiós- Goodbye
Mañana- Tomorrow
Hoy- Today
Ayer- Yesterday
La semana que viene- Next week
La semana pasada- Last week

FACIAL EXPRESSIONS

The ubiquity of conversation in Argentina is marked by expressive body language. Animated debates are common, showcasing the Argentinian way of speaking. While conversations may seem intense, they typically reflect passion and engagement rather than hostility.

TOPICS AND TABOOS

Open criticism of Argentina is acceptable, but external criticism may be poorly received. Avoiding topics like the South Atlantic War, Perón, and sensitive issues, including racism and religion, is advised. Comparisons with other Latin American countries, particularly Brazil, should be approached cautiously.

SILENCE

Argentinians, particularly in urban areas, are not comfortable with silence, maintaining a fast-paced conversational flow. Conversational patterns may seem uninterrupted, indicating active listening. Visitors are typically accommodated with a slower pace if needed.

SWEARING

Swearing has become more common but is viewed as lacking refinement. Argentinian swear words often reference maternal ancestry and are used for emphasis rather than anger. Visitors are encouraged to avoid swearing.

HUMOR

Argentinians appreciate humor, often at someone else’s expense. Their humor is less subtle than British humor, incorporating irony and wit. While they enjoy laughing, self-deprecating humor is less common.

ETIQUETTE

Greetings involve handshakes, nods, and cheek kisses, with men and women adopting varying greetings. The use of “vos” instead of “tú” and the informal register are notable grammatical differences. Punctuality expectations vary, and body language includes closer interpersonal distances.

INTERNET AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Internet use is widespread, with popular platforms being WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. Social media usage is prevalent, with a preference for WhatsApp in personal and work-related communication.

THE PRESS

Numerous newspapers, including Clarín and La Nación, contribute to Argentina’s media landscape. Digital news platforms like Infobae and English-language newspapers provide diverse news sources.

TELEVISION AND RADIO

Television remains integral to Argentinian life, with channels like Artear and Telefe being popular. Dubbing is common, especially in TV shows. Radio stations cater to varied audiences, while streaming services like Netflix dominate online viewing.

MAIL

Postal services, including Correo Argentino and private companies, operate reasonably well. Standard delivery times to the UK and the USA range from ten to fifteen days. Special delivery services and international couriers are available.

CELL PHONES AND SIM CARDS

Claro, Personal, and Movistar are the main cell providers, offering prepaid SIM cards. SIM cards can be purchased at airports, retail stores, or kioskos. Passport details are required for registration.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Emergency services, including police (911 or 101), ambulance (107), and fire (100), are available. Tourist Police in Buenos Aires offer English assistance. Foreigners can dial specific numbers if using a foreign mobile phone.

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