The "Puente" Strategy: Navigating Business and Holidays in Spanish-Speaking Countries
Success in the global marketplace often comes down to more than just a great product or service; it requires a deep understanding of cultural rhythms and local customs. If you are doing business in Spain, Mexico, Argentina, or Colombia, you will quickly encounter a unique phenomenon known as the puente . In English, we call it a "bridge," but in the Spanish-speaking business world, it represents a specific strategic approach to the calendar. Failing to account for these breaks can lead to missed deadlines and ghosted emails. On the other hand, mastering the timing of each day in Spanish business culture allows you to build stronger relationships and operate with much higher efficiency. What Exactly is a "Puente"? In many Spanish-speaking countries, when a national holiday (a día festivo ) falls on a Tuesday or a Thursday, it is common practice to "bridge" that gap by taking the intervening Monday or Friday off as well. This creates a four-day weekend. The...