(essay)

The Swedes are known worldwide for their deeply rooted Lutheran business ethics, which are the closest to those of Germany, but not as dry. It is characterized by diligence and punctuality, accuracy and seriousness, thoroughness and decency, precision and reliability in relationships.

Swedish businessmen are highly skilled, so they especially value professionalism in their partners. Swedes usually speak several foreign languages, primarily English and German.

Swedes are pedants, so you should not call your communication partner by name unless he or she suggests it.

They like to plan things in advance, so it is better to arrange business meetings in advance rather than at the last minute. You should arrive for negotiations exactly at the appointed time, the deviation from which should not exceed 3-5 minutes, in exceptional cases — up to 15 minutes.

Swedish businessmen prefer to know the composition of the participants and the program of their stay (including working part, receptions, theater visits, etc.). It would be polite of you to provide dress code for receptions and theaters.

Traditionally, negotiations begin with a conversation about the weather, sports, sights, etc. You need to prepare for this part of the negotiations and to scroll through a couple of websites before the meeting.

In reputable Swedish companies, there is strict discipline and a chain of team members in accordance with the position held. Each participant in the negotiations has the right to express his or her own opinion when given the floor.

Swedes are reserved and usually do not express their emotions vividly. They preliminarily and comprehensively study the proposals received and like to consider all issues in the smallest detail, so if you want to succeed, you need to come to the negotiations carefully prepared.

Friendships and relationships play a special role in the development of business in Sweden. Work is not limited to the office and often continues over a friendly dinner in a restaurant or at a friend’s house. Usually, only the closest or most important partners are invited home. If you receive such an invitation, don’t forget to buy flowers for the hostess or send them with a messenger on the day of the visit.

In this case, it would be a good tone to reciprocate the invitation on your part.

Swedes have a traditional view of what a business person should wear, preferring the classic style.

“Må du ha tur!” I mean, “Be lucky!”