Opening a business in a foreign country is an undertaking that requires special attention to local conditions. When making such a decision, it is important to take into account the peculiarities of the business environment and follow local traditions. In Spain, as in many other countries, there are certain standards of business communication, but there are also a number of features that you should be aware of before opening a business and establishing business relations with local entrepreneurs.
Spanish businessmen are characterized by openness, gallantry and a great sense of humor. They also show seriousness and are distinguished by their ability to work in a team. Preference is given to teamwork, rather than work where the result depends on only one person. This feature should be taken into account when drawing up a staffing schedule if you plan to open a business in Spain.
The Spanish love to chat, and business negotiations usually begin with a discussion of the weather, sports, local attractions, and other non-business topics. Because of their tendency to talk too much, negotiations with the Spanish may be a little slower than you might expect. Like many other businessmen, the Spanish prefer to negotiate with their peers in the business world.
In order to receive a proper and respectful attitude, it is necessary to observe all formalities and rules of etiquette, and also to watch your appearance. In a hot climate, you should carefully choose an outfit for a meeting with partners: even if the meeting place is near the beach, it is not recommended to wear shorts and flip-flops. Instead, it is recommended to choose light trousers and a short-sleeved shirt. If the meeting is scheduled in the office, it is preferable to wear a business suit. The ideal outfit for a business woman in the Spanish style is a black suit with a red or white blouse, as well as accessories, such as a scarf.
When meeting business partners in Spain, it is customary to shake hands and exchange business cards. If you make an appointment, it is advisable to avoid the time when the Spanish are accustomed to having breakfast or lunch, and also not to disturb their afternoon siesta, when they rest. Between noon and sixteen o’clock, it is better to occupy yourself with other things, if you are not yet accustomed to their principles.
If you have been granted a business visa to Spain and have just started working here, you are probably still worried about being on time as you rush to a meeting. However, after working in Spain for a while, you will realize that the Spanish are not particularly strict about punctuality, and being a little late for fifteen minutes is considered normal.
The Spanish, like businessmen from other countries, consider it polite to offer you breakfast. However, you should not accept this offer too quickly, as it is just a formality – a requirement of etiquette, in fact, they are not going to have breakfast with you. However, if they offer you breakfast for the second or third time, you can safely accept, apparently your partner is very pleased to communicate with you, and he is sincerely interested in a conversation over a cup of coffee! During breakfast or lunch with the Spanish, it is not recommended to discuss bullfighting, politics and talk about your personal life. Also, do not show off your wealth, give expensive gifts or leave large tips – all this will cause suspicion and mistrust among the Spanish. Consider these features of Spanish culture to successfully develop business in Spain!
