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Mexico’s construction opportunities

Published on: 19 Mar 2009

Working in Mexico CityMexico is increasing by 1 million people a year. The result is a need for 4 million more houses and a thorough upgrade of the country’s infrastructure.

Skills in demand

  • Anything to do with the PFI
  • Facilities management
  • Cost management
  • Auditing
  • Civil engineering
  • Urban, regional and transport planning
  • Project management
  • Sustainability, legal, financial and technical advisers
  • Cement and steel subcontractors

Top tips for working in Mexico

  • In the office, titles are important. Always use “señor/señora/señorita” followed by the person’s surname
  • Business cards should be printed in English on one side and in Spanish on the other and are exchanged at the start of a meeting
  • Mexicans have a relaxed attitude to timekeeping so don’t be surprised if meetings start late, finish late or are rescheduled at the last minute
  • Personal relationships will lead to more business so be prepared for lunches and drinks to become part of your working day
  • Tequila is often ordered at business lunches but should be sipped rather than knocked back in one
  • Traditional fare is green and red chilli sauces, scrambled eggs with chilli and cactus leaf and meatballs stuffed with egg and smothered in more chilli sauce. Have a large glass of water on hand...

For more on working in the region visit Building's The market in Mexico: What are you afraid of, gringo? .