Acting Like a Local…

This fun, but useful, section provides a short list of cultural practices that can help you in social and business situations. Below is a brief excerpt from this section:

• The North American symbol for 'OK,' making a circle with the thumb and index finger, is considered a vulgar gesture in Spain.

• To beckon someone, turn the palm up and wave with fingers or the whole hand.

• If giving flowers as a gift, the bouquet should be in an odd number that is not 13, due to superstition.

• Be aware of two types of lunch breaks: from 2 to 5 pm for shops and businesses and from 4 to 9 pm for bars and restaurants, especially outside the major cities.

• Queuing (waiting in line) is not rigid here, and you need to be very assertive.

This is just a brief sample of the extensive information in the GoinGlobal Spain Career Guide, which is carefully researched and regularly updated by local career experts.