In some cultures, it is the way men are expected to behave. It is the belief that in society, men have a dominant role over women. Machos are supposed to be physically strong and they are expected to be the prime providers and protectors of the family.

When macho behavior is observed in the American culture, it is called sexism or male chauvinism. In our society, the macho culture concept is considered offensive and intolerable.

In the United States, education, equality rights and affluence have done much to eradicate if not completely eliminate the concept of “machismo”. However; it still exists among first generation Hispanic immigrants who have not been educated in the American ‘cultural norms of behavior’ between the sexes.

In the workplace, first generation, front line Hispanic males are usually oblivious to the fact that they’re behaving in a machismo manner. They may tell sexist jokes or make coarse comments that would never be tolerated with the “office folks”. They may even take the liberty of approaching their female co-workers and give them a pat or other unwanted physical contact. Unfortunately, most Hispanic women will not complain or report these unwanted advances for fear of retaliation. When the instigator of these advances is their boss, they feel they have a stronger reason to tolerate this behavior.

The Concept of Machismo

Being macho has to do with wielding power. In the macho culture, men view women as being weaker, both physically and emotionally. A Hispanic female supervisor will have a much greater challenge gaining the trust, respect and loyalty from her male Hispanic direct reports. As a result, it is not uncommon for Hispanic female supervisors to react to this cultural pressure by adopting and exhibiting an aggressive and domineering role.

Although no scientific study exists, it’s interesting to note the disproportionate number female Hispanic supervisors and team leaders with “strong character personalities”. They are in the unique position to understand that some first generation Hispanic men may at times, find it difficult to accept the fact that they must take “orders” from a woman. She therefore concludes that by portraying this strong behavior, she lets everyone know “who’s the boss”.

Unless first generation, front line, Hispanic supervisors have been trained in leading their teams by process and not by personalities, the macho culture tends to prevail. ‘De-macho-ing’ Hispanics in the workplace can be achieved by providing consistent, quality training that leads to personal development.

Providing Training for Hispanics in the Workplace

It is up to the department leaders and senior management to attempt to instill a culture of equality and respect for all employees, regardless of gender. It is not easy to suddenly remove a cultural mindset that has been implanted for so many generations. Teaching first generation Hispanic employees to respect gender equality is not easy or a quick process. It requires constructive dialogue between the sexes in a safe learning environment and; with a competent facilitator to lead the discussions. This will help them to realize the importance of valuing each other as unique individuals and as human beings.