Study Abroad Project

Good Morning:  I am a student that will be studying abroad next week.  I live in Austin, Texas and part of our assignment to prepare for our visit is to get a better understanding of the differences and challenges we might face while traveling, visiting with businesses and engaging regular life.

I lived in Europe for about half of my life -- basically all my formative years, but have never been to South America.

My questions are:

1) What are some major cultural differences between the U.S. and Chilean business culture?

2)  What are the most common missteps that a U.S. expatriate makes regarding intercultural communication?

3)  What are some common pitfalls in business and communication (verbal and nonverbal) to avoid?

4) What are suggest for a diverse international team management or best practices associated with working with Chilean  team members?

5) What are concerns or suggestions for cross-cultural negotiation strategies and conflict resolution?

I appreciate any suggestions or insight beyond these questions.

Many thanks!