Oslo - Local customs

Norwegians have a strong sense of equality and honesty is an important virtue. The Norwegian mentality is characterised by egalitarianism. This can in part be connected to the strong labour movement in Scandinavia and one of the highest percentages of trade union memberships in the world, as well as a socialist government lasting several decades.

Norwegians may at first seem reserved, cold and even impolite. In many cases this could be due to insecurity and a certain clumsiness when it come to meeting new people, especially people from other countries and backgrounds. But it is said about Norwegians that once you have broken the ice, they will be your friends forever.

When you visit a Norwegian friend in his/her home, it is polite to take you shoes off when you go in. When you are introduced to new people, greet them with a handshake. Hugs and  kisses, as common in most European countries, are considered too informal for a first meeting and therefore often reserved for family and close friends.

Business etiquette
Compared to many other countries, most people would agree that the business etiquette in Norway generally is relatively relaxed and casual, when it comes to dress code and social behaviour. At the same time it is expected that you use your time well, stay focused and work rationally and efficiently. This is emphasised especially as the working day in many Norwegian businesses tend to be shorter than it is in the US and most European countries (this is not necessarily the case for private companies and international corporations represented in Norway). The organisational structure in most Norwegian companies is not particularly hierarchical, and individual initiative is generally encouraged and appreciated on all levels, as long as you are modest in the way you present your suggestions. The flat structure in the Norwegian business organization is a reflection of the egalitarian ideals in the Norwegian culture, and individual competition is toned down. This may seem rather confusing for ex pats with an international working experience. The following web site gives you detailed information about the business culture in Norway: www.businessculture.com/norway

Do's and don'ts
When you visit a Norwegian friend in his/her home, it is polite to take you shoes off when you go in. When you are introduced to new people, greet them with a handshake. Hugs and  kisses, as common in most European countries, are considered too informal for a first meeting and therefore often reserved for family and close friends.

Social etiquette
Norwegians may at first seem quite reserved. In many cases this could be due to insecurity and a certain clumsiness when it comes to meeting new people, especially people from other countries and backgrounds. But it is said about Norwegians that once you have broken the ice, they will be your friends forever.

When you visit a Norwegian friend in his/her home, it is polite to take your shoes off when you go in. When you are introduced to new people, greet them with a handshake. Hugs and  kisses, as common in most European countries, are considered too informal for a first meeting and therefore often reserved for family and close friends.