Photo attribution to andercismo
Imagine working abroad for the first time, armed with all the information you need to successfully acclimate yourself to the work environment, social scene and overall cultural customs? That is where Goinglobal steps in. Goinglobal is committed to providing you with an arsenal of career information and resources to ease the transition abroad and help you be prepared before you leave. We have career country guides for over 30 countries, written by in-country researchers, that help you as a professional regardless of whether you are a novice or seasoned expat.
Every week, we will feature an insight from one of our global career guides to help you achieve your dream of working internationally.
Today’s tip: How to interview in Spain
Interviews will vary greatly depending upon the type of companies, their cultures, the interviewer, the type of job, the sector or other aspects. This guide only intends to address the typical behavior or situation one can be facing.
Pre-Interview Preparation
The best way to prepare for a job interview in Spain is to research the company’s website or reference books. Spanish recruiters are impressed with applicants who have knowledge about the company’s chief executives, products and services, competitors and clients. One should also review the job requirements carefully to ensure that all the important issues can be addressed in the interview.
Interview Conduct
For an interview, dress should be formal or classic. Men’s business attire consists of a conservative but well-fitted suit, including a jacket and tie. Women generally wear stylishly tailored dresses or suits. Black or brown shoes for men and heels for women are preferred.
The Interview
Spaniards tend to be very conversational, and there is always casual discussion before entering into business. Personal relationships are very important, both socially and in business, as this helps establish trust.
Post-Interview
After the interview, it is acceptable to follow up with a phone call or an email with the main interviewer. It is advisable to avoid calling the first thing in the morning. This follow up communication will thank the interviewer for his/her time, and offer him/her the opportunity to get further information, including information about references.
This is just a sample of what you’ll find in the complete Spain guide.
Thank you for this helpful insight. I plan on studying abroad in Spain and I have to find an internship while I am over there. I find it is all of the little things in an interview that make the biggest impresions. For example, the dress, the type of conversations one will have, showing that you have knowledge of the company, and then following up on the interview by calling or writing a thank you letter to the company you visited.
Wonderful to hear that this advice helped you Stephen. Living and working in Spain is definitely an amazing experience. Having the cultural perspective on the different business culture will undoubtedly help you standout from other applicants. Good luck