Since they think in terms of context, they search for the rationale behind behaviour. Senegal Social life and customs. )Eye contact does not have the same symbolic value.
Therefore, it is essential to take the time to establish good relations that will strengthen over time. Refrain from interrogating people within the first five minutes of meeting them; asking a person if he/she works, if he/she is married, or if he/she has children, etc. Also use this formal manner of speech when speaking to superiors and call them by Mr. or Mrs.In the workplace, managers often allow a little prayer area, but this does not usually cause any problems with people of different faiths.Business partners or colleagues may greet each other as men do (see description above). As a Canadian, your comments and knowledge are highly appreciated since people believe that this is what made Canada the successfully developed country that it is.In general, start by shaking hands with people when you meet for the first time; this sets the appropriate amount of personal space between you for the rest of the conversation (the length of your arm plus that of the person with whom you are speaking). She studied women’s clothing design at the Collège Marie-Victorin. Like the neighbouring language Fula, it belongs to the Atlantic branch of the Niger-Congo language family. Be cautious when something sounds too good to be true – it probably is.To the Western mind the amount of time spent in greetings may appear unnecessary or even wasteful (especially in business) they are used by the Senegalese to feel one with each other and achieve a sense of group harmony.Although there are over ten ethnic groups in Senegal, five are predominant. p. cm. Culture & society; Social etiquette and customs; Business protocol and work culture . Only after this comment did I begin to notice and understand that things that were allowed in Senegal were not necessarily the norm in Canada.North Americans find that deadlines are generally "too" flexible for their liking.Some supervisors are very open-minded and understand that others can come up with good ideas. Avoid asking any personal questions that might lead people to believe that you are indiscreet and keep to general topics of discussion. It is poorly viewed to treat a friend as you would treat other employees or colleagues.Making direct eye contact with someone who is older than you is not very well regarded. However, some people will confront you and will candidly tell you what the problem is.It is easiest to learn about the country’s culture if you have a "guide" such as a colleague or friend. It is a good idea to follow their lead and maintain a polite and reserved demeanor at all times.Animism is based on the belief that natural objects and idols or fetishes have magical power. Senegal’s national basketball team is among the best in the continent. Generally, greetings between men and women or two women will be less elaborate.Answers to your intercultural questions from a Canadian and a local point of view.Your cultural interpreter was born in Montreal in 1971 to Québécois parents and is the second of five children. Coming from Canada, where all topics are open for discussion, you should not assume that the same situation exists in a country like Senegal where religion plays such a central role.