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Getting a Jump Start on Workplace Customs in Norway
By Louise Rankin
Generally speaking the Norwegian rule of independence holds fast in meetings, social situations, and formal occasions. This Norwegian rule has the unwritten motto: "If I can look after myself, you should be able to look after yourself too." This will often mean finding your own place to hang up your coat, helping yourself to the coffee, and making sure that you have the correct handouts for a meeting.
Introductions are made by shaking hands and saying your name, stating both your first and second names. Business cards can be exchanged. Goodbyes are often accompanied by another handshake and are somewhat warmer than introductions.
Norwegians are punctual, a habit instilled by their ancestors. Plan to arrive at the meeting place early, as the meeting will start on time. Your choice of time for holding a meeting can be crucial. Try to avoid lunch (any half-hour taken from 10:30-12:30) and be prepared to depart promptly at 1600, the end of the workday. Norwegians meeting typically have a set agenda, even if it is not sent out in advance. Adhere to the agenda, particularly in respect to the stated start and finish times.
During the meeting, it is very unusual to interrupt the speaker. To ask a question, raise a finger or a pencil to indicate that you wish to speak and if that goes unnoticed, it is preferable to stay quiet rather than to interrupt. Addressing a Norwegian by his name will get a much quicker response to a question rather than expecting someone to volunteer with an answer and expose themselves to the risk of being wrong.
Proper attire for meetings is often quite informal. Suits and ties are quite acceptable if you are visiting from abroad. The vast majority of ladies wear trouser suits or short-skirted suits to everyday work and meetings. If participating in a working group meeting, attire is often much less formal. Some companies have a "jackets off" day on Friday, but many Norwegian companies have very relaxed dress rules. Men are seen without a tie, in an open neck shirt or jumper (sweater), sandals and even shorts in the summer. Even the top bosses can be seen at work in jeans, especially in the oil industry, underlining the Norwegian instincts of equalitarianism.
About Louise Rankin
Louise Rankin has provided consulting and training communication services
to international business executives for over twenty years. She works with
almost every major international oil business in Stavanger (the oil capital
of Norway) through her company, Communication Skills Consultancy.
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