Helpful Service Behaviors for Staff + Common Service Mistakes to Avoid
DO:
Greet guests warmly on arrival — "buenos días" or a simple "welcome" is a cultural expectation, not optional
Use "Señor" or "Señora" followed by a last name at first contact — shift to first names only if the guest signals it
Stay attentive to body language — tone, posture, and facial expression carry as much weight as words
Build brief rapport before the transaction — a warm personal exchange before business reflects relationship-first values
Be patient and unhurried — rushing the interaction can feel disrespectful rather than efficient
Handle tipping naturally and without pressure — aggressive tip prompts may feel uncomfortable
DON'T:
Don't be blunt when delivering unwelcome information — soften difficult messages with courtesy language
Don't point a finger at a guest or product — use an open hand or whole-hand gesture instead
Don't yawn or fidget visibly during a service interaction — both read as disrespectful in Ecuadorian culture
Don't step sharply back if a guest stands closer than expected — closer proximity is culturally normal, not a boundary issue
Don't assume a vague or positive-sounding response means yes — Ecuadorian guests may say "maybe" or "we'll see" to avoid a direct "no." Read these responses as probable declines rather than open doors, and don't push further.
Don't rush guests through a food or beverage experience — meals and social interactions are valued as occasions in Ecuadorian culture, not just transactions. Signaling urgency or hurrying the table may feel dismissive of that value.
