Greetings
Greeting someone in Spain is an essential part of the culture. When meeting someone first, shake hands and make direct eye contact. In Spain, it is common to make physical contact, like a kiss on the cheek, upon greeting a close friend or family. Men will also often give each other a friendly pat on the back or shoulder.
Rituals of respect, such as standing when being introduced to someone, are expected, and it is essential to take the time to understand the customs and etiquette of Spanish culture.
Handshakes
In Spain, a handshake is the standard greeting among strangers, acquaintances, friends, and family. In some parts of Spain, hugs, kisses, and handshakes are common among siblings and even close friends.
When meeting someone for the first time, a good handshake should be firm with an accompanying smile. Respectful greetings such as buenos días (good morning) and buenas tardes (good afternoon) should also be given, depending on the time of day. Handshakes between men typically last longer than those between women. Maintaining eye contact throughout the entire exchange is vital to forming connections quickly in Spain’s traditional culture.
Kissing
Kissing is a common greeting in Spain and is used when meeting close friends, family, and acquaintances. It is generally exchanged between men and women on both cheeks to demonstrate respect and familiarity.
Depending on the region within Spain, the popular number of kisses exchanged can range from one to four, depending on who you are greeting. For example, adults will give each other two brief kisses, with men welcoming women and women greeting men. This custom also includes adults greeting children; adults greet them with two kisses, while children usually greet adults with just one kiss on their left cheek.
More importantly, if you are unsure how many kisses to offer, nobody will react scornfully – offering one or two brief snippets or handshaking would be a respectful gesture of politeness.
Body Language
When meeting people in Spain, it is important to pay attention to body language. Respectful behavior calls for shaking hands when greeting someone, although a simple nod will suffice for casual meetings. Personal space is also observed in Spain; standing too close or touching someone you don’t know well is considered rude. Additionally, direct eye contact while conversing is considered respectful – avoiding eye contact can appear dismissive or hostile.
Sitting positions are another factor to consider when interacting with people in Spain. Crossing your legs when sitting with someone indicates disrespect, as does leaning your elbows on a table during a conversation. Leaning back while others are speaking may be interpreted as a sign of boredom.
Gestures can also play an important role during conversation; while signaling disagreement by shaking one’s head is common in North American countries, it may be seen differently in Spain – nodding signifies agreement among Spaniards instead. Additionally, taking it slow when reacting to something another person says is generally advisable compared to delivering an immediate response; this allows time for reflecting on the subject and shows appreciation for their point of view.
Dining Etiquette
Spanish dining etiquette is an important consideration when visiting or living in Spain. Sharing your food with others is a sign of friendship and respect, and there are certain customs you should follow while dining with others.
This section will discuss the finer points of Spanish dining etiquette, including:
- Which utensils to use
- How to order food
- What to expect in terms of table manners
Table Manners
Table manners in Spain are generally formal and expected to be followed by all. Here are some tips to help you fit in when dining out:
- When eating, hold your utensils with your index finger on the handle and your thumb on the back of the utensils.
- Keep your elbows off the table.
- Wait until everyone has been served before you start eating your meal.
- If you need to excuse yourself from the table, say “con permiso” (with permission).
- Don’t butter bread or toast until everyone is served food – even if it’s already on the table.
- If you don’t want more food, leave a spoonful in each dish and push it toward the center of the place while keeping it touching the plate. It informs you that you don’t need more food.
- After dinner, if you want more coffee or after-dinner drinks such as cognac or liqueurs, say “otra copa” (another round). Otherwise, wait until invited before ordering a second round of drinks.
Eating Utensils
In Spain, it is crucial to understand the proper procedures for using table utensils. Forks are used primarily in a Continental style, with the fork held in the left hand and a knife used for cutting food in the right. Spoons are used primarily for eating soup and are usually placed on plates. Using your knife to cut bread or butter is considered rude and should be broken by hand instead. It is not to say that all restaurants in Spain adhere strictly to formal table etiquette; however, an understanding of some essential customs will help visitors feel comfortable while dining out.
When done eating, it is polite to place your fork and knife – together – at a 45-degree angle on your plate with their handles facing right as a sign that you have finished. If you still have food left over or wish to take it home with you, leave it on your plate without rearranging the utensils – this will indicate that you have unfinished business and still plan to return later.
Toasting
Before anyone takes a drink when toasting in Spain, it is customary to look into everyone’s eyes before saying “Salud” (like Cheers in English). Toasting is a significant part of Spanish culture and can range from formal to semi-formal. Toastmasters are chosen and tasked with leading the toast at larger events and dinners.
At informal gatherings, it is more common for participants to take turns proposing and raising a toast that corresponds with the occasion or sentiment of the event. Most typically, toasts will be either humorous or solemn, depending on the situation. However, when offering a toast at large gatherings, one should always stand up and raise their glass before proposing it. The audience can simultaneously raise their glasses before clinking together and drinking.
At formal celebrations such as weddings or engagements, there should usually be at least four people taking part in the toast – including whoever is making it – as an honor to Spanish families that traditionally have four children. Clinking glasses during a solemn toast in Spain is also considered bad luck; however, this tradition has become less rigid throughout the years due to religious customs becoming more relaxed in favor of modern lifestyles.
Gift Giving Etiquette
Regarding gift-giving in Spain, it is important to be aware of the common cultural customs and etiquette. Giving a gift is a sign of respect and appreciation, and there are certain rules and guidelines to follow. While gift-giving is not a strict requirement in Spain, presents are still welcome when meeting someone or celebrating a special occasion. From the type of gift to the wrapping and presentation, learning the proper etiquette will help you make a good impression.
Let’s take a look at some of the important points to consider when giving a gift in Spain:
Appropriate Gifts
When it comes to gift-giving etiquette in Spain, it’s important to note that depending on the occasion and specific cultural practices. For example, it is appropriate to bring a gift if invited to a Spanish home for dinner. On the other hand, gifts such as flowers, liquor, or chocolates for dessert should be simple. Generally, the hostess will be appreciative of a lovely bouquet.
Gifts should be wrapped and come with a personalized note—however, extravagant gifts are not necessary; when in doubt, pick something simple. Other appropriate gifts include wine, gourmet foods such as olive oil or honey, specialty cheeses, and other traditional products from your home country can also make friendly gestures. Again, expensive items are unnecessary; however, small tokens of appreciation are always appreciated in Spain!
When you doubt what present is appropriate, consider the local traditions related to that particular region and try to adjust the gift accordingly—particularly when visiting remote smaller towns.
Gift Wrapping
Gift-giving is an integral part of Spanish culture. Presents are often exchanged between family and friends on special occasions such as Christmas or a birthday. There are a few simple rules when choosing a gift for somebody in Spain.
Wrapping presents is an important aspect of Spanish gift-giving culture. It is customary to wrap gifts with colorful wrapping paper and ribbons rather than just giving them in a bag or box. In addition, gift wrapping should include an ‘escrito’ (small note) that explains the occasion, the sender’s message, and their best wishes for the recipient. The ‘escrito’ must be printed on quality stationery rather than regular printer paper; this elevates the importance of the sentiment behind it.
Other traditional pressing materials include tissue paper and decorative bows; both add a touch of elegance to the gift presentation. It’s advisable to avoid using plastic bags if at all possible, as these are generally frowned upon in good manners within Spain’s etiquette guidelines.
Presentation of Gifts
When presenting a gift, offering it with both hands is polite as a sign of respect. Wrapping paper is usually used for presents; it is not customary in Spain to open the presents when received in front of the giver. It indicates that the recipient wishes to delay their appreciation until after the giver has left. Furthermore, it demonstrates respect for the gift-giver to wait until they have gone before opening a presented wrapped item.
The individual giving the present should ensure that it has been wrapped neatly because gift-wrapping styles are important within Spanish culture, and people do take pride in how gifts look upon being presented. Furthermore, a card or note expressing kind words can accompany a given present, as this custom is seen as thoughtful and appreciated in Spanish culture.
Social Etiquette
Social etiquette in Spain has been primarily influenced by its culture and history. For example, a handshake is a common way of greeting people, with men often clasping their hands and pressing their right shoulder to the shoulder of the other person.
Spanish people also tend to be tactile, and hugging and kissing on the cheek is an expected way of greeting close friends and family.
Introductions
In Spain, introductions are taken very seriously and follow established customs. When introducing yourself to someone, you should use the formal mode of address. To indicate respect, wait for the other person to extend a hand before extending yours in greeting. Usually, a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks is appropriate for acquaintances, although older people and women may kiss each other only once.
When introduced to an elderly or prestigious person, you should acknowledge your low ranking with words such as ‘señor/señora’ (mister or miss) followed by their surname and first name. It is usually carried out at the end of the conversation too. Complimenting someone on their appearance and clothing is generally accepted in Spain so use it sparingly when appropriate (especially among women).
When introducing others to one another, state each person’s job title (if applicable) followed by their full name.
Conversation
In Spain, conversations will inevitably start with greetings and inquiries about each other’s health, work, and family. In this respect, it is important to be prepared to answer specific questions, even if they appear too personal in a foreigner’s eyes. These topics of conversation can be seen as an icebreaker rather than intruding on someone’s privacy.
Conversations are usually conducted animatedly with gesticulation – but look down upon anyone who openly expresses aggression or raises their voice. It is also customary to have shorter conversations with people you don’t know well, inviting them to join in with everyone else as soon as possible.
Conversations will often switch between Spanish and a regional dialect; this isn’t meant as an insult, so newcomers should not feel uneasy or offended if they struggle to understand the language being used. If introductions are involved at a private function such as dinner, then introductions are done formally (the first name, then surname). Once the openings have taken place, they may become more casual but remain respectful. Compliments about one another’s clothes or hair can also play an essential role in polite conversation when mixing with locals – particularly women – and serve as an expression of respect rather than an insult that might appear flirtatious to some outsiders.
Public Behavior
Public behavior in Spain is governed by basic courtesy. Loud talking, unruly language, and excessive drinking are generally frowned upon. On the other hand, enthusiastic behavior is accepted as long as it is always done with respect.
People stringently observe the rules of good etiquette in the streets when speaking to others or talking on their phones.
In public places such as restaurants, bars, and social events, it’s important to show consideration for others while conversing by keeping one’s voice low and observant of those around them. People tend to be aware of the feelings and privacy of other patrons when using their smartphones in public locations. It’s considered impolite to take pictures without permission from the subject and those around them.
Punctuality for meetings and events is also important in Spain; arriving late without informing the host or hostess may result in an apology or excuse being expected from an individual who arrives late for an appointment or meeting.
Business Etiquette
It is important to understand the customs and etiquette in Spain before attending a business meeting. In Spain, it is common to greet people with two kisses on the cheek, known as “la beso.” Business meetings begin with a polite conversation to create a friendly yet professional atmosphere. It is important to listen carefully and be patient, as meetings often move slowly. Knowing these conventions and formalities will help you build good relationships and make a positive impression.
Business Attire
Business attire is the standard convention when meeting people for the first time in Spain. As a rule, it is always important to dress professionally and conservatively.
- Men should wear dark-colored suits with white shirts and ties.
- For women, dresses or skirts with blouses are appropriate business attire.
- Shoes should also be formal; open-toed sandals or sports shoes are not recommended.
In more casual settings, such as during summertime gatherings in a restaurant, casual clothing tends to be accepted without offending anyone. However, shorts, tank tops, and overly revealing clothing are considered inappropriate for any setting outside the beach area or home.
When unsure of what to wear in certain situations, it is best to heed guidance from local colleagues on the style they consider appropriate at that particular place or event.
Business Meetings
Business meetings in Spain are usually formal, but there can be some informal banter during the meetings. Despite this, professional relationships maintain a formality where everyone is addressed using their professional titles and surnames. Meetings should always begin with introductions, and punctuality is important; being on time or even a few minutes early will make a good impression. Business cards are essential in Spain, so bring plenty to every meeting.
Business discussions tend to follow an orderly manner, so it may take a while before the actual topic is discussed, but when it is discussed, it’s expected that you already have your facts organized. Spanish don’t like to conduct business quickly, as they prefer to explore every aspect of the discussion before making decisions or proposing solutions. If negotiators appear too pushy, they could be seen as rude or aggressive, which tends not to be appreciated in Spain. Once again, diplomacy and tact should be displayed during these exchanges.
Understanding the local cultural customs can help build relationships vital for future business negotiations. For example, the Spanish prefer working with people they know or have developed good relationships with rather than total strangers.
Business Negotiations
In Spain, there is an acceptance of having to tough it out in negotiations. Studies led by Spanish psychologists show that Spaniards generally look for high status and success among their colleagues. Still, they also understand that negotiation may mean reaching an outcome with a compromise or agreement. It means they do not openly engage in hostile tactics and personal confrontations.
Spaniards appreciate trust and respect, so it is important to take the time and make a special effort to build a personal rapport during negotiations. Establish trust with your Spanish business partners through courteous behavior and confidence before discussing any specific business.
When meeting for negotiation meetings, it’s important to remember that group dynamics will come into play as each individual feels comfortable making his/her own opinions known by others in the group. Spaniards normally feel most comfortable discussing personal issues first, such as their family backgrounds, rather than immediately jumping into business matters. Feel free to talk about yourself, too, as this can help develop a feeling of equality amongst those in the meeting and encourage construction conversation, which heightens the chances of successful negotiation.
As with other European countries, punctuality is respected though arriving early may be counter-productive as early arrivals tend not to be taken seriously; arriving 10-15 minutes late for meetings shows respect for those already present without developing unnecessary stress due to lateness. When trying to close a deal, it’s better to stick with basics like handshakes – any attempt towards sealing the deal in another mode might prove counter-productive by getting off on the wrong foot with your partners.