Face is the accumulated personal capital or indebtedness between individuals, and is a fundamental feature of Lao culture. It is at the core of the system of interpersonal relationships and often the key to making a hierarchical and bureaucratic system work. It is important for a Lao person to build and maintain face in order to shape a powerful and influential image. The more important one appears to be, the more likely one's requests will be granted. On the other hand, people go to elaborate lengths to give face to others and prevent them from losing it.