Business in Panama is very centered around the Panama Canal and banking. After touring the city, I have seen many banking institutions from all around the world. It was explained to me that this is done to encourage foreign investors to start a business in Panama. Seeing a bank they are familiar with ignites a sense of trust to begin a business. In addition, the Panama Canal helps the country thrive and keeps its economy afloat. Many countries pay millions to use the Panama Canal because it allows a faster mode of transportation of goods with a shortened distance through the Americas. I also learned that business in Panama is very personal. Employers like to interact with their employees and learn about them and their life. It is a very family-oriented culture that employers like to keep in the workplace. Engaging with individuals in Panama was always a friendly interaction. Individuals were happy to help and always professional too. Being in Panama has really opened up my mind of all the possibilities the world has to offer. Just one country is so different than what I am used to. It has provided me with a global perspective and encouraged me to learn about other cultures as well. In addition, it has provided me the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and out of the commodities my home has provided for me. I now know what it is like to live and prosper in a country that is very different from my own. My perspective really did change once I got to Panama. At first, I believed that it would be very similar to Mexico. However, I quickly learned that the food, customs, and even accent of the language is different. I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to go on this trip and will carry on the values and knowledge I have learned in Panama throughout all my business career.
