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Hacer negocios no es igual en todas partes
What works in New York or Berlin might fall flat in Madrid or Seville. Each country has its own rhythm, values, and way of getting deals done. If you're planning to enter the Spanish market, there are a few cultural quirks and habits worth knowing before you adventure starts.
Lexington coworking spaces offer an ideal professional environment to integrate into the local business world.
Keep these 10 things in mind and we guarantee you'll fit into Spain's business scene like a pro. 😉
In many Spanish companies, hierarchy plays an important role. Decisions are usually made from the top, and in meetings, it's common for those in executive roles to lead the conversation while others participate less actively. However, not all structures are the same, and there are different ways of interpreting and applying hierarchy.
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In Spain, business is personal. Before signing an agreement, a certain level of trust is necessary. It's very common for people to work together for years, and even if they switch companies, personal bonds remain.
Want to network? Invite someone to lunch. Or dinner. Or coffee. A good post-meal chat is also part of the process. In cities like Madrid and Barcelona, coworking spaces are booming, and they’re ideal for informally connecting with potential collaborators.
👉🏼Looking for the perfect spot for a business lunch? Check out this selection of top restaurants in La Moraleja.
Don't expect to close a deal in the first meeting. In Spain, good things take time! There may be several meetings or formal gatherings before you land that contract.
Spaniards prefer long-term relationships based on trust over quick, superficial connections. They're also creative and flexible during meetings. Agendas exist, but they're not as rigid as in some other countries. So get ready to keep an open mind and be adaptable!
First impressions count, and how you dress says a lot. High-level professionals in Spain typically go for a polished, classic look.
Even in more relaxed settings like startups, the style is still smart-casual and well put-together. Dressing well shows respect, professionalism, and credibility—though more and more companies are moving away from strict dress codes.
There’s no strict rule for communication in the Spanish business world. What matters, as everywhere, is politeness and respect. A friendly “buenos días” (good morning) is always a good start. Some people prefer to be addressed formally (“usted”), while others may find it too stiff or outdated. If you’re unsure, just ask how they prefer to be addressed—it shows consideration and helps avoid awkward moments.
Spaniards are also expressive: gestures, eye contact, and physical closeness are normal. Still, observe the environment. In general, be warm, professional, and authentic.
Punctuality is the norm, although Spaniards are quite flexible with time. Meetings may start five minutes late, last longer than planned, or even get rescheduled. Still, arriving on time is a sign of respect. Just be ready to wait a little… and that “quick meeting” might turn into a two-hour session.
And yes, lunch breaks are long. So are dinners. Working after 7:00 p.m.? Quite common in the hospitality sector (though many companies are encouraging a better work-life balance). 👉🏼 More on this topic in this article by The Guardian.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is gaining traction in Spain. Topics like transparency, inclusion, and business ethics are up to date, although other practices such as supplier audits are still not very common (only 12% of companies conduct them).
A study by Cornell University shows that companies supporting employee wellbeing and family life have happier, more loyal teams. So if your company values this too, you'll likely connect well with the local environment.
Every country has its own code of conduct for business, and Spain is no exception. Understanding the cultural context will help you build stronger relationships, avoid misunderstandings, and stand out in the Spanish business landscape.
If you’re taking your first steps in this market, coworking spaces like Lexington offer much more than just a desk—they help you land smoothly. With designer offices, strategic locations in Madrid and Barcelona, and a professional yet relaxed environment, Lexington is the meeting point between local and international professionals. It’s the perfect place to understand how business is done in Spain. You’ll soon pick up on cultural nuances, expand your network, and who knows—maybe even meet your next partner or client in our spaces!
💭 Want more information? Fill out the form and we’ll get in touch with you.
Written by
The one and only CEO in Lexington, David is the essence of our #RebelDNA. It’s in his blood! He probably knows everything about flexible workspaces and how to find the best combination between workplace strategy and talent. He’s the one behind every improvised plan with the team and this big family we are at the office. The best? Indeed.
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