Business
Business Etiquette
Norwegians are fairly informal in dress, but a smart business suit is advisable for meetings. It is customary to shake hands with everyone present, on arrival and departure. Punctuality is important. Appointments should be made well in advance and adhered to. If running late, it is important to telephone and explain why. Business cards should be exchanged after the preliminary introductions, after which it is straight down to business. Norwegians are direct and ready to negotiate, with the minimum of small talk. Trust is important and, in negotiation, Norwegians are less likely to indulge in tactical dealing and will be more interested in the facts of the product than in personality or social skills. Visitors should make a fair pitch with room for a little adjustment but not produce an initial offer that could subsequently be seen as a negotiating tactic, as this may be perceived as dishonest. Similarly, expensive gifts should be avoided, as they may be perceived as a bribe. Small items bearing the company logo would be suitable and bringing in the duty-free alcohol allowance would be well appreciated. In a country where the price of alcohol is prohibitive, this action could earn friendship for life (well, almost!).
Comments about the high cost of living and cold weather in Norway are often perceived as criticism and Norwegians, probably because of the country’s history, rarely react positively to humour at the expense of themselves, their country, its system or anyone they perceive to be at any sort of disadvantage. ‘Political correctness’ is considered desirable. However, they are friendly and informal in personal terms – first names are generally used from the outset.
Business hours are normally 0800 to 1600, with employees leaving their offices promptly, to return home for middag (dinner), normally eaten at around 1700 or 1800. However, an invitation to either dine out or eat at the home of a business colleague will normally be scheduled slightly later. Luncheon is not a Norwegian custom – they take a short break for a snack at around 1100-1130.
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