Spain

International Business in Spain : 

International Business in Spain Abigail Aragon, Richard Cumplido, Colby Josey, Sandra Tejeda

Need to Know : 

Need to Know Language Business Meeting Norms and Etiquette First Meeting Appearance Communication Verbal Non Verbal

Language : 

Language Five major languages Spanish Catalan Basque Gallego Portuguese In Spain the majority of the population speaks Spanish, but it is considered a second language “because one-fourth of the population uses their regional language for daily communication.” “Less than 30% of the local managers are fluent in English” (buy USA).

Business Meeting Norms and Etiquette : 

Business Meeting Norms and Etiquette Spaniards prefer to do business in an entertaining restaurant. Lunch and dinner meetings are a vital part of establishing a good business relationship. Do not initiate any conversations about business unless your host initiates it first. Punctuality for a business dinner or lunch is not really important to Spaniards.

Business Meeting Norms and Etiquette : 

Business Meeting Norms and Etiquette Appointments are mandatory and should be made in advance. The appointment should be confirmed the week before the meeting or interview. Upon arrival, present your business card to the receptionist. Business card should be printed in Spanish and English. Make sure to hand the card with the Spanish side up.

Business Meeting Norms and Etiquette : 

Business Meeting Norms and Etiquette If bringing any materials to the meeting, you should be prepared by having it printed in English and Spanish. Not all businesspeople speak English, so it is wise to check if you should hire an interpreter.

First Business Meeting : 

First Business Meeting The first meeting is always formal. Don’t be surprised if no business is actually conducted. Multiple people will speak at once so do not take offense if you are interrupted while speaking. Partial respect is gained if you join in and speak about your opinions and ideas.

Communication : 

Communication Two forms of communication: Verbal Non verbal Non verbal- gestures, eye contact, and posture. Can have just as much of an effect as what you actually say. “These nonverbal communicators are especially useful when different languages are involved and people must rely on alternative methods of communicating” (Martin, 51).

Gestures : 

Gestures Great way to emphasize key points. When speaking to someone from another culture, gestures may be perceived as positive in one culture and negative in another. Example: “The ‘okay’ sign means that all is well when communicating with some cultures, in Spain, it is considered to be an obscene gesture. Very important to learn the norms so you can try to communicate more effectively.

Eye contact and Posture : 

Eye contact and Posture Eye contact is very important because it conveys attentiveness, respect, and self-confidence. “Spaniards have strong eye contact; it is important as it builds trust” (World Business Culture.com) Posture is also important because it displays interest or disinterest on what another person is saying. Avoid negative postures that might come across as rude.

Conclusion : 

Conclusion Many steps you to follow in order to succeed Informing yourself Learning about other people’s culture norms