Finland
Business
Attitudes and values form the basis of any culture reflecting the ways people think and behave. Knowledge of these can therefore be of significant importance in communicating effectively with your counterparts. Ignorance of these issues can result in a cultural barrier that may inhibit the communication process, and have a negative effect on the success of your activities. Business attire is stylish and conservative in Finland. Men should wear business suits and women should choose skirt suits, trouser suits, or dresses. For dinner, dress formally if no other dress code is given.
Meetings (Business)
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Punctuality : Finns respect time and will absolutely expect you to do so! So it would be definitely appreciated if you come to the meeting minutes earlier .
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Seating arrangements : Seating arrangement in Finland is as the following : Host and Hostess are seated at opposite ends of a rectangular table, the guests sit on opposite sides by gender!
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Order of speak and other tips :
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Go straight to business
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Do not interrupt
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Offices are preferred
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Everyone "has a say"
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How do people address each other : Finns aren’t addressed by their first names unless they gave the permissions to do so, always use the last names, if someone has got the title of Doctor, Engineer or Professor that person’s title should be used rather than Herra (Mr.), Rowva (Mrs.), or Neiti (Miss).
MEETINGS
In business meetings Finns take punctuality very seriously and expect you to do likewise; call to explain if you will be more than five minutes late. Meetings are expected to start and end at the agreed. Finns are also well prepared for meetings so much of the work is done in advance. Although Finns are careful with the groundwork, they still often make decisions quickly. They are known for not asking many questions and so you should be prepared to give such an extensive presentation that there will be no need for complementary questions. This also makes time management easier.
The main values of Finns are as follows: modesty, working at a measured pace, honesty, reliability, a respect for traditions and customs, strength, silence, democracy, independence, resourcefulness, bravery, diligence, sensitivity and cleanliness.
Business attire is stylish and conservative in Finland. Men should wear business suits and women should choose skirt suits, trouser suits, or dresses. For dinner, dress formally if no other dress code is given.