Business Practices in Finland

As an egalitarian culture, Finns promote workspace equality. Thus, hierarchy tends to be flat. Junior managers often have decision-making authority.

Finns may also be transactional, meaning they do not require personal relationships to conduct business (that said, Finns may prefer doing business with people they know and trust). Relationship building often takes place outside the office: in a restaurant or at the sauna.

You should follow a clear agenda during meetings and presentations. Finns seldom ask questions; it is important for a presenter to make his/her case with sufficient detail.

It is very important to make and maintain eye contact during face-to-face communication. Avoid exaggerations. Extreme gestures, expressions and tones must be avoided. Doing business in Finland requires time and patience. Two to three-minute pauses of silence are common and should not be interrupted as it is considered rude. Never interrupt another person, as being too talkative may seem suspicious. Most business dealings are held in offices, not restaurants. Smart debate and humour is welcome.

Coffee, tea, soft drinks and biscuits are usually served during meetings. Alcohol is rarely consumed during lunch time. One should never turn down an invitation to use the sauna, as it is an entrenched part of the Finnish culture. Unlike other European countries, business can be discussed during meals. Service charges are included in bills; extra tipping is not necessary, but can be viewed favourably in more expensive restaurants. The person who invites pays; bills are rarely split.