INTERNATIONAL ETIQUETTE

SPAIN

Learning the skills of proper etiquette and manners are the signs of cultural diversity and a must for a successful business or personal relation.

The Kingdom of Spain has a population of 46.5 million people, and is 194,992 sq. mi. The majority of citizens, 94%, are raised Roman Catholic.

DRESSING CODE

•Business dress is stylish yet, conservative
•Business attire includes conservative suits and ties.
•Elegant accessories are important for both men and women.

BUSINESS
• The Spanish prefer to do business with those they know and trust.
• Businesses are closed between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30p.m.
• During business meetings, doors are usually kept shut.
• Business colleagues often dine together.
• Different ranks within a company do not mix.
• Business cards should be two-sided, English and Spanish.
• Printed material should be available in both English and Spanish.
• It is best to display modesty when describing your achievements.

FAMILY
Family is a priority
Family values are extremely important in Spain.

BEHAVIOR
• By law the service charge is included in the bill in Spanish restaurants, rewarding an exceptional service with an additional tip of 5% is appreciated.
• A gratuity of 10% to the taxi will be valued.
• If you receive a gift, you should open it immediately in front of the giver.
• A general buenos días or buenas tardes on entering a shop or bar is expected.
• Yawning or stretching in public is considered as disrespectful.

SOCIAL
• Physical contact is not well appreciated with strangers.
• Initial introductions are restricted to a brief but firm handshake.
• Men use a two-handed shake where the left hand is placed on the right forearm of the other person. Female friends kiss each other on both cheeks.
• Dinner is usually served after 9:00p.m.
• The Spanish attitude towards time is notoriously flexible.