Panama People: Women and work, Advice to the female traveller
on business/ work to Panama
The new president of Panama is Mireya Moscoso, who ironically
won her victory against the son of the general who ousted Moscoso's
husband Arnulfo Arias from the presidency in a 1968 coup. Moscoso's
election was a surprise in Panama, where women generally occupy
a secondary status in this heavily male-dominated and macho-influenced
country. A woman's power and influence has traditionally been
at home, with less than 10 percent of Panamanian businesses owned
or managed by women. Time will tell what effect having a female
as head of the country will have upon the boardrooms and backrooms
of the country's business infrastructure.
The female business traveler is likely to find that chivalrous
behavior, such as opening a door or pulling out a woman's chair,
is common. This Panamanian sense of decorum means that foreign
businesswomen should experience few problems with unwanted sexual
attention.
Women can even go out on the streets and dine alone,
but most will feel more comfortable if escorted.
Women on the Global Road
Now an established presence in the management workforce and
as traveling executives, women may find themselves on the road
as much as their male counterparts in seeking to further business
opportunities. However, specific gender concerns do need addressing
when it comes to conducting business and travel in a country,
place, or culture other than one's own. Arming oneself with information
in advance will do wonders in overcoming many a difficult situation.
The best sources from which to derive helpful hints are other
female travelers. Seek them out and inquire of them what to expect,
most especially those who have been to the destination to which
you will travel. In a pinch, their tips may turn out to be your
saving grace. Similarly, upon arrival it is in a woman's interest
to observe female behavior in the country of travel to learn
what is appropriate and how best to blend in with the locals.
Women in Business
In a business setting, you are in control of the
situation. Be courteous and helpful to your Panamanian counterparts
but
establish your own boundaries. If you are the leader of your
group or the chief negotiator, make it very clear that this is
the case even before your first meeting. Status and authority
come with titles. Wear yours proudly.
The female business traveler is likely to find that chivalrous
behavior, such as opening a door or pulling out a woman's chair,
is common. This Panamanian sense of decorum means that foreign
businesswomen should experience few problems with unwanted sexual
attention. Women can even go out on the streets and dine alone,
but most will feel more comfortable if escorted.
Cultural Considerations
In general, women traveling to a foreign country should adopt
conservative tone and behavior to keep any unwanted attention
at bay, at least until familiar with the specifics of female
roles in the country.
Cultural Tips (General, not specific to Panama)
--State your wishes clearly so that mixed signals do not become
a problem.
--Wear a wedding band and carry a photograph of a husband and
children (even if you have none) to stave off harassment.
--Try and look for other women to sit near on public transport;
women-only compartments or areas are designated for this purpose.
--To repel harassment, ignore sexual advances,
whistles, and various forms of catcalls; avoid eye contact and
do not engage in any conversation.
Business Attire
Due to the tropical climate, one is well advised
to stick to lightweight natural fabrics such as linen and cotton.
Women will
be appropriately dressed with lightweight dresses and suits.
Naturally, outside of the business realm, casual attire is
suitable for sightseeing. However, conservative skirts and blouses
are
still recommended. Shorts and tank tops should be reserved
for the beach.
Women's Health Issues
Traveling involves extra stress and health concerns to consider.
Change of diet, time zone, and living conditions will take up
an enormous amount of physical reserve. Women should consider
taking extra vitamin, mineral, and food supplements to ensure
optimum physical health. Since many travelers avoid meat in developing
countries, supplements are further encouraged. Other points to
consider:
Expect to experience irregular menstrual cycles or none at all
due to jet lag, stress, and new and irregular eating and sleeping
habits.
Bring any female hygiene products that you use at home, i.e.:
tampons, pads, medication, prescriptions, etc. as they may not
be readily available at the time of your arrival or even at all.
Birth control pills may not work properly if you experience stomach
upset or diarrhea. If you vomit within three hours of digesting
a pill, take another to ensure proper protection.
Yeast infections become more problematic in hot, humid climates.
Stick to cotton undergarments and clothing that is loose fitting
to allow maximum air flow to your body. Nylons and tight pants
may also induce yeast infections. Come prepared with medication.
Carry the telephone number or email of your gynecologist at home
in case you have urgent questions.
Helpful Resources
Advancing Women
Web: www.advancingwomen.com
Canasian Businesswomen's Network
Email: cabninfo@apfc.apfnet.org
The International Alliance (TIA)
Email: info@t-i-a.com
Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT)
Web: www.owit.org
Women in Technology International (WITI)
Web: www.witi.org/Center/Offices/About
Email: info@witi.org
Women's Institute of Management (WIMNET)
Web: www.jaring.my/wimnet
Working Woman
Web: www.workingwoman.com
9 Business Strategies for Women
--Prepare in advance what to expect, not only in terms of business,
but attitude of the local culture toward women.
--Behave and dress conservatively; it is your first and basic
step toward gaining respect.
--Anticipate equality issues as they will likely surface.
--Maintain a sense of humor. A foreign country has many oddities,
your presence possibly being one of them. Relieve some of the
stress with a humorous outlook.
--Brush off sexual innuendos and comments about appearance and
carry on with the business at hand. Keep a cultural outlook on
such remarks. If a member of the other delegation becomes a problem
or nuisance, take him aside and inform him that it makes you
uncomfortable, or tell another member of his delegation to put
a stop to it.
--Exhibit tolerance and understanding for the other culture.
--Questions about your marital status and family may prove ubiquitous,
as
it interests people how things work for you.
--If you are a team leader, prepare your delegation in advance
to treat you in a matter-of-fact, supportive fashion. A reaction
from a delegation unaccustomed to working with females in authority
may be derailed a bit if they observe your role is nothing but
routine.
--Generational attitude differences may exist toward women.
Prepare to adjust to them.
--Professional behavior, a respect for local traditions, and
an in-demand service or product will assist you as a businesswoman.
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