It is very important to know the correct business etiquette of your business counterpart. The Spaniards have quite a strong influence in world trade and the Spanish language is the second most used language in the world. So it would be considered quite wise to know a little bit of Spanish business etiquette.
First of all the business appearance of is more formal than in the rest of Europe and Spaniards prefer dark formal business suits, bright colors should be better avoided. Casual wardrobe during business meetings is not appropriate.
The Spaniards have nothing against English language and in general speak English, but it would be wise and good gesture to have a copy of all business papers in Spanish. One must remember that Spanish is a very widely used language.
Although their wardrobe might suggest that Spaniards are very punctual businessmen, it is actually the other way round. As a foreigner you should arrive on time, but do not expect your Spanish counterpart be there exactly on time. The same principle applies to deadlines; if the deadlines can be met that’s nice, but if they are missed Spaniards are not over concerned. Friendship is an important base for business in Spain. So you must be careful when dealing with the Spaniards not to offend them and ruin a beneficial friendship. Business meetings often take place in restaurants, but you must remember that in Spain most restaurants open only after 9 p.m. So prepare for a long night. Business meeting can be very vocal meaning more than one people speaking at the same time. Remember that the main religion of the Spanish is Catholicism so be very careful not to offend them by critiquing it. Close friend will often hug each other. Family is the most important thing in life for Spaniards so if you are not a close friend of the family do not bother them on holidays or at home.
The Spanish may appear very serious, but appearances can be very tricky because if you look closer the Spanish businessman is more relaxed and easy to conduct business with than their counterparts from rest of Europe. If you become friend with them you are almost sure to succeed in business in Spain.
