Business
Business Etiquette
Business hours are generally 0900-1800, with a break for lunch between 1300 and 1400. These hours may vary depending on the size and type of organisation. Punctuality is important. Both men and women should wear a suit for business meetings – men should also wear a tie. Business cards should be exchanged after introduction. All Spaniards have two family names – only the first is used in conversation but any academic or professional titles should be acknowledged. Galego (Galician) may be used in a business setting among local speakers, otherwise Castilian Spanish is used. Many international business people will also speak English or French.
Business is sometimes combined with meals, although this is not widely practised, as many Spaniards go home for ‘siesta’ over lunch (from approximately 1330-1630). Evening entertainment often focuses on excursions for tapas, which is largely a social event. Invitations to private homes are rare. On these occasions, however, a gift of chocolates, pastries or flowers is appreciated – chrysanthemums and dahlias should be avoided, as they are associated with death.
It is very important for business visitors to appreciate the fierce sense of regional pride among the Spanish people, particularly in Galicia. Ignorant comments, jokes and criticisms concerning the region will be considered serious insults. Santiago de Compostela is also a highly religious city and any profanities will not be appreciated.
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Business