Geert Hofstede Analysis: Spain

Geert Hofstede Analysis: Spain

The Hofstede Analysis illustrates that uncertainty avoidance is ranked the highest for Spain, while the other three dimensions are ranked moderately. This is a result of Spain’s feelings and concerns regarding rules, regulations, and career security. One interesting thing to note is their low masculinity score. While women are still behind men in business equality, they are extremely important in society. As women continue to make progress in the workforce, look for this score to drop even lower. There is not a long-term outlook for Spain.

Religion in Spain

* WORLD FACTBOOK 2010

In a country that has over 50% of its population practicing the Catholic religion, we found the primary correlating Hofstede Dimension to be Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI). There were only 2 countries out of 23 that did not follow this correlation, they were Ireland and the Philippines. (See accompanying Article)

Appearance: International Business Dress and Appearance

The Spanish dress more formal than many other Europeans. In Spain, it is important to project good taste in apparel.

Business attire includes well-made, conservative suits and ties. Avoid flashy colors, as it is not popular to stand out.

Shorts are not usually worn in public.

If you pull down on your eyelid in Spain, you are insinuating to "be alert" or that "I am alert."

In Spain, crossing you fingers has several good meanings, usually things such as "protection" or "good luck". This is a nice gesture to be friendly.

Behavior: International business behavior, introductions, gift giving, protocol, culture

The family is the most important thing to people in Spain.

Time is very relaxed. It is wise for foreigners to be punctual, but Spaniards do not put a great emphasis on time themselves. The Spaniards often consider deadlines an objective that will be met if possible, but do not become overly concerned if the deadline is not achieved.

Although many Spanish businesspeople speak English, it is a good idea for foreigners to have all of your materials printed in Spanish.

Business cards should be two-sided, one