Spain scores high for quality of life but sucks for career progression

Spain has a great deal going for it as a destination for expat retirees, but isn’t the best choice for career oriented expatriate professionals.

In many surveys over the years, Spain has been praised for its welcome to British expats arriving to enjoy its warm climate and laid back lifestyle. The country still scores regularly for family life and overall wellbeing, rising by nine places in this year’s Expat Explorer study to take fourth best expat destination. Respondents noted improvements to both their mental wellbeing and physical health, saying they were happier, more comfortable and had more time to spend with their families and friends.

Working days in Spain start later, include long lunchtimes and invariably provide a more relaxed, less stressful working environment but, for expats who thrive on efficiency and organisation, the ‘manyana’ concept doesn’t do much for their careers. Ambitious expats looking for fast career progression, high salaries and generous relocation packages would be well advised to look elsewhere or, if they’re determined to stay in Spain, open their own businesses. It has to be said the country’s way of doing business is slowly changing, with more attention being paid to aspiration and economics, but those hungry for success will need patience.

For new arrivals just wanting a quiet life, Spain’s version does compensate for the lack of career opportunities by providing access to a good few welcoming cultural communities as well as the usual expats’ clubs. Settling in can actually be fun, and advice is easily had. Spanish mannerisms may confuse at first, with lack of punctuality and abruptness two typical examples which shouldn’t be considered as rudeness. Expat females may have problems dealing with a decidedly patriarchal society both in and out of the workplace, but it’s all well-meant. Perhaps the best advice for those considering relocation to this fascinating culture is not to bring the home country’s culture along for the ride.