Most companies inviting specialists with relocation already have international staff and are generally international themselves. However, Finnish companies tend to retain distinct Finnish characteristics in their work culture. Here is an overview from Robert Brooks (a Brit) with our additions:
Punctuality
This is probably the most important point to emphasize. Finns are very strict about their schedules, so it's crucial to respect others' time.
If a meeting starts at 10, it means it starts precisely at 10:00. You should already be in the meeting room with your computer on. Arriving just as the meeting begins means you’re late.
If you’re going to be late, inform in advance with the exact delay time. Finns are polite and understanding. If you say you’ll be 5 minutes late, they will likely wait and not start the meeting without you. But if you arrive 15 minutes late, it will be seen as very rude.
The same punctuality applies to deadlines. If you promised a report by 4:00 PM on Friday, it is expected exactly at that time. Notify of delays in advance.
Introductions
Finns shake hands during the first professional or personal meeting. Post-pandemic, this is less common, but it’s still recommended to offer your hand.
It’s good manners to introduce yourself with your full name. If Finns have trouble hearing your name, they will ask until they understand. Foreign names might be challenging for them, so it’s easier to learn how to pronounce your name as Finns do.
Office Communication
If you work together, you are a työkaveri, meaning a work colleague or friend. The term kaveri describes someone you spend time with and do things with, but the relationship isn't very deep.
Don’t expect a deep personal connection with Finnish colleagues. Office conversations can cover topics where everyone might have their opinion, but without delving into details or debates.
Safe topics: weather, sports, and hobbies. Topics to avoid: politics, religion, personal circumstances, children, and health issues.
Honesty and Directness
Finns are more direct than most Europeans but still softer than Russians. They value honesty and efficiency. Anything else is considered a waste of time.
When seeking feedback, be prepared for straightforward opinions. Well-done work will be deemed "okay," not excellent. If you did something poorly, expect direct criticism. It’s important not to take it personally; it’s an assessment of what you did, not who you are.
However, avoid the directness typical of our culture, as it can be perceived as rude. Don’t mock others' mistakes, even if the person isn’t present. Provide constructive feedback that helps improve the situation.
Addressing by Name
You will address your boss and even the CEO by their first name.
In Finland, this practice starts from preschool. Teachers are addressed by their first names, and in higher grades, even by their nicknames.
One aspect of politeness is the use of the third-person pronoun hän and the formal Te. They are used in very formal situations, when speaking to an elderly person, or even when talking about dogs (not a joke).
So, if you have an office dog, make sure you’re polite 🙂
You can read the full article at the link.
Punctuality
This is probably the most important point to emphasize. Finns are very strict about their schedules, so it's crucial to respect others' time.
If a meeting starts at 10, it means it starts precisely at 10:00. You should already be in the meeting room with your computer on. Arriving just as the meeting begins means you’re late.
If you’re going to be late, inform in advance with the exact delay time. Finns are polite and understanding. If you say you’ll be 5 minutes late, they will likely wait and not start the meeting without you. But if you arrive 15 minutes late, it will be seen as very rude.
The same punctuality applies to deadlines. If you promised a report by 4:00 PM on Friday, it is expected exactly at that time. Notify of delays in advance.
Introductions
Finns shake hands during the first professional or personal meeting. Post-pandemic, this is less common, but it’s still recommended to offer your hand.
It’s good manners to introduce yourself with your full name. If Finns have trouble hearing your name, they will ask until they understand. Foreign names might be challenging for them, so it’s easier to learn how to pronounce your name as Finns do.
Office Communication
If you work together, you are a työkaveri, meaning a work colleague or friend. The term kaveri describes someone you spend time with and do things with, but the relationship isn't very deep.
Don’t expect a deep personal connection with Finnish colleagues. Office conversations can cover topics where everyone might have their opinion, but without delving into details or debates.
Safe topics: weather, sports, and hobbies. Topics to avoid: politics, religion, personal circumstances, children, and health issues.
Honesty and Directness
Finns are more direct than most Europeans but still softer than Russians. They value honesty and efficiency. Anything else is considered a waste of time.
When seeking feedback, be prepared for straightforward opinions. Well-done work will be deemed "okay," not excellent. If you did something poorly, expect direct criticism. It’s important not to take it personally; it’s an assessment of what you did, not who you are.
However, avoid the directness typical of our culture, as it can be perceived as rude. Don’t mock others' mistakes, even if the person isn’t present. Provide constructive feedback that helps improve the situation.
Addressing by Name
You will address your boss and even the CEO by their first name.
In Finland, this practice starts from preschool. Teachers are addressed by their first names, and in higher grades, even by their nicknames.
One aspect of politeness is the use of the third-person pronoun hän and the formal Te. They are used in very formal situations, when speaking to an elderly person, or even when talking about dogs (not a joke).
So, if you have an office dog, make sure you’re polite 🙂
You can read the full article at the link.
