Sweden and Business Culture Etiquette
Sweden's business etiquette is somewhat formal but does not involve a number of rules and regulations that are difficult to remember. It is very important for professionals who are visiting the country on business to adhere to the customs and traditions of the country in order to make a good first impression.
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Professional Greetings
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It is appropriate for business colleagues to shake hands when greeting one another. Men should exchange a short, firm handshake, while maintaining eye contact with one another. Women can follow the same rules when shaking hands with one another or can simply say "hello" if they see each other often (e.g., women who work together on a daily basis). Men and women are also permitted to shake hands with one another. If they are old friends or colleagues who have not seen one another in quite some time, a light hug is appropriate.
Professional Attire
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Men should wear dark or medium-colored suits when doing business in Sweden--colors like black, navy blue and gray are acceptable. A tie in a conservative pattern and white button-down shirt should be worn underneath the suit jacket. Women can also wear business suits in the same color(s), as well as modest dresses or skirts. It is acceptable for women to wear pants suits to the office as well. Jeans are not permitted for men or women in professional settings.
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Professional Titles and Business Cards
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Most Swedish professionals refer to each other by their first names, so if a businessperson in Sweden calls an international colleague by his or her first name, this is not considered rude and the gesture should be returned. In formal business situations, it may be more appropriate to refer to a colleague using "Herr" (masculine) or "'Fru" (feminine) followed by the professional's last name until invited to do otherwise. There is no specific protocol for handing out or receiving business cards in Sweden but the cards should always be treated with respect, e.g., no folding or writing on the cards.
Business Meetings
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Business meetings are rather regimented in Sweden. It is very important for all colleagues to be on time for meetings, as lateness gives a very bad impression. There is not a lot of time for small talk at the beginning of the meeting, as Swedish professionals like to get to the objectives of the meeting right away. Meeting agendas are usually agreed upon by all colleagues before the meeting takes place and professionals follow the agenda fairly precisely. It is not polite to interrupt someone when they are speaking and it is common to have periods of silence in the meeting; it is not necessary to fill these gaps with speaking.
Giving Gifts
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It is not expected to present Swedish professionals with gifts at initial meetings. When giving gifts in a professional setting, it is not acceptable to spend over $200 a year, according to state regulations; spending more than this amount on a gift will be considered a bribe. When invited to a Swedish professional's home, it is acceptable to present the host with quality chocolates or a bottle of wine. It is customary for individuals in Sweden to open gifts immediately upon receipt.
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References
- Photo Credit sweden flag button image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
