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Cultural Training in Spain

Doing business in Spain isn't like going on holiday: don't expect to get by with knowledge of a few words, and don't assume business is conducted in the same way universally.
But how can you properly prepare when entering the Spanish market? There are many cultural training companies and schools which can help you. They offer cross-cultural grounding, bridging the translatory and protocolic gaps between nations and people.

Providing guidance in all areas of business and sociality, these cultural training companies are experts when it comes to negotiation training; management training; and diversity training. All training, of course, can be country-specific.

Tutorials can take many forms, so investigate which will be right for you and, if necessary, your employees.

Business Etiquette in Spain

The formalities and informalities; the how d'you dos and how d'you don'ts. Etiquette is one of the foundations of modern civilisation, and business is no exception. A business blunder, in some countries, could mean the difference between a deal and disrepute. Again, its all about culture if not adopting, at least recognising and respecting the traditions and protocols of a people.

In Spain it is important that you spend sufficient time letting your business colleagues get to know you, as the Spanish prefer to do business with those they know and trust.

Remember that face-to-face contact is preferred to written or telephone communication. It is also important to display modesty when describing your achievements and accomplishments, as modesty is highly regarded.

Avoid confrontation if at all possible. Spaniards do not like to publicly admit that they are incorrect. You may be interrupted while you are speaking. This is not an insult, it merely means the person is interested in what you are saying. Reading body language is the key to understand people.

In business the first meeting is generally formal and is used to get to know each other. Do not be surprised if no business is actually conducted during the first meeting. Agendas are often used but not always needed to be followed too strict.

Make sure all your printed material is available in both English and Spanish. English is spoken in Spain, but youll probably need to speak slowly and clearly. As not all businesspeople speak English, it is wise to check if you should hire an interpreter.

In business meeting several people may speak at once, you may be interrupted while you are speaking. Meetings are for discussion and to exchange ideas: usually decisions are not reached at meetings.

Western business dress code applies. Business cards should have a translation in Spanish on one side.

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