Though my time in Portugal was short (2 weeks from beginning to end), I was able to have many experiences and opportunities for learning. We visited a different company almost every day of our trip and were able to learn not only what kinds of businesses are conducted abroad, but also how they are conducted.
One company that stood out to me was Impetus, a textile company. Impetus? value proposition (according to the representative) is quality and family. Our guide stated that she has worked for the company for 10 years, and many people work there much longer. Impetus even has vans and buses which pick up employees from their respective homes. Additionally, the company engages employees in team-building workshops, parties, and other interactive activities. The representative stressed that Impetus was not merely a family company, but a family in itself. This drew a stark contrast in my mind between Impetus and how American companies treat their employees.
I often feel that America?s culture revolves largely around a ?live to work? mindset, whereas many European cultures (such as that of the Portuguese) have a mindset of ?work to live.? This conjecture was proven to be accurate almost immediately upon our group?s arrival. The Portuguese people seem much more carefree and seem to enjoy the little things in life, even if their life or work is simple. For example, many of the waiters I encountered seemed to be interested in talking and providing travel tips, whereas American waiters are always rushing around to finish tables and get more tips.
It is not inaccurate to state that Portugal has many cultural differences from the United States, as well as within its own borders. The contrast between Lisbon and Porto was astonishing, and it was also interesting to hear about the extent of the Portugal v Spain rivalry. However, the changes faced were welcomed by me. Enjoying the culture of the Portuguese was a refreshing contrast from the fast-paced and labor-centric environment of America.
My time abroad has allowed me to understand the rich culture of Portugal and has helped me to see many new ways business can be conducted. Our several company visits prove that sustainability is not a foolish nor impossible goal but is rather something that can be achieved through a little more effort, such as recycling fabric waste, using organic matter to increase soil richness, or donating unused or unwanted products.
