Doing business internationally, especially in Europe makes it indispensable to know about the cultural differences in various countries. Every country in Europe will have its differences when it comes to etiquette, communication and most of all style of conducting business.

This article will brief you about the things to keep in mind while developing strong professional relationships in the beautiful land of Austria…

1. Austrians are mostly to the point in their communication. They like talking about facts and figures, and may not indulge in small talk or pleasantries, at least in the first few meetings. This should not be viewed as snootiness or cold behaviour. Austrians are business-like and straightforward people when it comes to doing business.
   
   
2. When you are being introduced to everyone in a meeting, make sure to keep your handshake firm and try to maintain as much eye contact as possible. Slightly conservative and formal in their etiquette, do not expect or initiate any body contact while conducting business with Austrians.
   
   
3. Refrain from baseless marketing tactics or promising things you won’t be able to deliver at a future date. Explain to them the strengths of your company by graphical representation and case-study examples to ensure seriousness and sincerity on your part.
   
   
4. While presenting your proposal, make sure the data is presented in both English and German, as it may be reviewed by several senior authorities before taking the final call. Double check to ensure that there is absolutely no loose-ended or questionable information in your proposal and everything is accurately presented in a crisp and formatted manner.
   
   
5. If your clients become friendly or emotive after a few meetings, consider it good news. This means that they are interested in taking the relationship to another level.
   
   
6. While communicating with your clients, initially it is a good idea to use honorific title and/or last name. Men are usually addressed with Herr and women with Frau. Your client may ask you to switch to first name basis communication, if they feel comfortable over a period of time.
   
   
7. Austrians can get a little stringent when it comes to their personal space. They prefer to maintain a certain distance when it comes to professional relationships, especially with foreigners. While other informal cultures may label it as offensive behaviour, it is not a personal attack. They will get more acquainted and become comfortable as they get to know you better.

So if you are interested in doing business in Austria, keep the above points in your mind, and your European integration will go a lot smoother.

Labels: Doing business in Austria

Interested in doing business in Spain? Wondering how their business etiquette, work culture and method of communication are different from the other countries of Europe. Well, fret not; read on to know about the Spanish style of conducting business…

1. Though most Spanish people have the reputation of being friendly, the initial greetings are always formal. Make sure to shake hands before the beginning and end of meetings. Expect your clients to become more social and gracious after two or three meetings.
   
   
2. The Spanish may not be very possessive about their language like the French, but they do take immense pride in their culture. So it’s a great idea to learn basic greetings like buenas tardes – good evening or buenas dias – good day, depending on the time of the day.
   
   
3. While you can refer to most individuals as Señor (Mr.) or Señora (Mrs.) it is also a common practice in Spain to refer to people with their professional titles.
   
   
4. Spanish people are generally warm, and their over-friendliness may be perceived as fake by some. However, keep in mind that their gracious behaviour is a positive sign, as it proves that they are feeling comfortable with you, and are interested in building a strong professional relationship.
   
   
5. Witty banter, light hearted jokes and a good spirit are very important while dealing with Spanish people. They love going out and having a good time. Don’t be surprised if they want to meet you several times before finalising any deals. The Spanish always want to make sure that they are barking up the right tree before taking a call. Chemistry between two parties is very important in Spain to strike the correct chord.
   
   
6. Always remember to dress well and be polite; shabbiness will not get you too far in Spain. Don’t try to rush things; you may spend the first few meetings not even discussing the main agenda. Give them time and please let them take the lead.
   
   
7. The Spanish don’t really follow a rigid timetable. They are fairly accommodating and laidback. Even the meetings are relaxed and it is not uncommon to be interrupted. Remember not to be caught off-guard; just be polite and pleasant and answer all their queries.
   

So if you are interested in doing business in Spain, in all likelihood, the agreement will first be discussed orally and then documented for the consent of both the parties.

Labels: do business in spain, doing business in spain