If two Americans were to greet each other with two kisses in the United States, it might seem odd since Americans are in general more reserved. The United States arguably has a more individualistic culture with less of an emphasis on community.
There are also many cultural differences between the United States and Spain in terms of each country's approach to business. I am currently doing an internship in Spain at a four star hotel which has given me insights into the business world in the United States and in Spain. For instance, when you have an interview in the United States, it tends to be very formal: you prepare for the likely interview questions ahead; dress professionally; arrive fifteen minutes early; shake hands when meeting; do the interview then leave. When I had my interview for my internship in Spain, my experience was completely different: the boss was ten minutes late to the interview; he brought this brother with him; greeted me with two besos; chatted with me about our lives; laughed a lot; and offered me coffee. This is a fine example of the relaxed culture of Spain, especially because it is common for Spaniards to show up late to appointments or events. With my interview, it was at first a little awkward because I was early and he was late, so I did not know what to do with the time I was waiting. When starting an internship or job in the United States, you usually receive a training, do a job shadow, and receive a list of the tasks you will be doing; but when I started my internship here I got none of that. In Spain, they don’t really give you a list of jobs you need to do; you figure it out as you go.
