Spain covers just over half a million square kilometres of South West Europe. With a population of about 48 million people, the country has 17 autonomous regions and 2 autonomous cities. Spain is rich in culture and in its heritage. Doing business in Spain is not far different from much of Europe but these handful of tips will help business along for you.
Like the Italians, the Spaniards love to greet people warmly, often with a kiss. However, in business meetings, unless you know the person well, a greeting is a lot more formal with a handshake. Should your Spanish party initiate a kiss, you do not so much as kiss the cheek, but kiss the air next to it. Greeting in Spanish is always a good start, if language is used at the beginning of a business relationship, confidence is increased all round. Learn Spanish Now!
There are levels of business meetings in Spain, and do not be surprised that little is ever resolved in a first meeting. The first business meeting is more about getting to know each other and feeling comfortable. Of course speaking Spanish makes this a whole lot easier. Spaniards like to check up on the integrity of the people, not so much the company, they are dealing with. Be prepared to answer questions about family and hobbies. The first meeting will touch on business and when a second meeting is called this is where the real work is done. Of course speaking Spanish really does ease things along.
We all know the Mañana Mañana joke about the Spanish. Sadly, it is little more than a joke. It is true the Spanish are relaxed, but to make a good impression, arriving a little early for a meeting is sign of respect. Your Spanish counterparts will be on time for the meeting, but they may not be early.
Spaniards prefer a business lunch between 1pm and 2pm over an evening meal. However, meals in the Spanish culture are more social activities than business activities. One thing the Spanish do not enjoy is discussing financial matters over a meal. Again, as with nearly every aspect of doing business in Spain having a good grasp of the Spanish language will be tremendously beneficial.
As will have been noted, the Spanish are great conversationalists. The Spanish love to really get to know who they are working with and the trend of talking about family, things you enjoy and suchlike will continue. The Spanish do not speak English as well as their North European counterparts. For this reason learning to speak Spanish will be of tremendous benefit.
Spain has unfortunately been one of the more corrupt countries in Europe. Thankfully, the Spanish government is beginning to crack down harder on cases of bribery and corruption. However, there are still some unscrupulous companies who will always try to beat the system. It is advised to walk away from deals that sound a little uncertain and maybe do some further research before moving forward. Speaking Spanish will soon allow you to spot if a deal has the potential of being corrupt in any way.
Speaking Spanish is an important skill to consider if you or your business is considering doing business in Spain. Having the language will not only help you do better business, but it will also allow you to enjoy the country more.
Contact us if you would like to learn Spanish in Melbourne, Adelaide and Online.
Speaking Spanish is an important skill to consider if you or your business is considering doing business in Spain. Having the language will not only help you do better business, but it will also allow you to enjoy the country more.
Contact us if you would like to learn Spanish in Melbourne, Adelaide and Online.
