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Norwegian Culture and Values In some ways Norwegian culture is a little different from other advanced industrial countries. Norway was relatively late to urbanise and until the early 20th century it was still a country largely made up of farmers and fishermen. Now it is one of the wealthiest and most advanced economies in the world. This rapid development has left an interesting imprint on society in Norway. There is a strong tradition of equality in Norway and Norwegians have a strong sense of fairness. This manifests itself in the high degree of gender, economic and social equality in Norway and in the high level of aid that Norway gives to developing nations. The welfare state and equality legislation is deeply entrenched in Norwegian law and society. Norwegians have a down-to-earth sense of objectivity and seek consensus in the decision making process. In common with the rest of Scandinavia, Norwegians operate a much more democratic style of management and decision making than many other cultures. It is important for them that all points of view are heard and discussed, and that the management team decide together on a course of action. Once a decision is made, they stick by it. Tradition is very important to Norwegians. They are proud of their local heritage, local dialects and their local "bunad" (national costume). They are also proud of their national heritage, and this can best be seen on the 17th of May (Norwegian Constitution Day) when the streets are filled with Norwegians in their local bunad celebrating their national day. The Easter pilgrimage to a hytte (or hut) in the mountains to go skiing, the thirst for the first "ute pils" (outside beer) in the spring, the summer "fellesferie" when everyone goes on holiday, and the opening of the lutefisk (a form of preserved cod) season in the run up to Christmas are all examples of traditions the Norwegians hold dear. One of the most distinctive features of Norwegians is their relationship to nature and the outdoors. They have a closeness to nature that to many non-Norwegians can seem unusual. Taking part in outdoor activities is an important part of the Norwegian identity. Seventy percent of the population hike in the woods, fields and mountains, and joining them on one of these outings is the best way to really get to know Norwegians. The Sunday hike is a popular ritual, and the cities empty at Easter and during the summer holidays as Norwegians travel to their hytte in the mountains or by the sea. Norway exhibits some of the characteristics of a rural community at the edge of Europe, but at the same time it is one of the most advanced societies in the world with regard to state administration and the development of high technology. This may seem like a paradox, but it has lead to Norway being ranked by the United Nations as having the highest quality of living in the world.
Languages and dialect: Norway was, until fairly recently, isolated pockets of humanity making a living in the valleys between the mountainous areas which cover most of Norway. Travel was difficult and communication was slow. As a result, local and regional dialects have developed on their own, producing an incredible range of sounds and words, with radical differences from one another. The same word can be pronounced in hundreds of different ways across Norway. No dialect is considered to have more worth than another, except by the people who speak them. Most Norwegian dialects – with some notable exceptions - are understandable once you get to understand a little Norwegian. Three for price of one To add to the confusion, we have three official written languages in Norway: Bokmål , Nynorsk and Sami. The two biggest are Bokmål and Nynorsk. Bokmål is based on written Danish, which was the official language of Norway for hundreds of years. Nynorsk was created by linguist Ivar Aasen in the 1850s, and is a compilation and combination of some (mostly West-Norwegian) regional dialects. The two languages are not very far apart, but do reflect the large regional differences. Generally, if you understand one of the two languages, you can understand the other fairly easily. Officially Bokmål and Nynorsk have been accorded equal status, although Bokmål is more widely used in Oslo and the larger towns. Nynorsk is used by about 10-15 per cent of the population, mostly on the west coast. You will also find a substantial part of government documents, church services and public broadcasting written in Nynorsk. Sami , on the other hand, is a minority language used by the indigenous Sami people. It is mother tongue to about 20,000 individuals in Norway. Sami is a member of the Finno-Ugric branch of languages, and North Sami has been established as an official language equal with Norwegian. It is mostly used in Troms and Finnmark – two regions in Northern Norway.
English as a second language But if you’re not planning on learning Norwegian, don’t worry: Norwegian children start learning English at school at the age of six and as a result, practically everyone in Norway has some skill in English (and theoretically speaking also either German or French). Young people in particular are mostly completely fluent in English. On the other hand, English-speaking films and television series are subtitled instead of dubbed.
Norwegian Communication Styles Not many people outside Norway speak Norwegian and, as a result, Norwegians have become extremely proficient foreign language speakers. It is not at all uncommon for your Norwegian counterpart to speak three or four foreign languages and English language levels are almost universally good.
Plain speaking is prized and the more diplomatic approach to communication which can be found in many of the Asian countries, (as well as the UK), can be viewed as evasiveness or even as dishonesty. If you want to convince a Norwegian, tell him the facts in a straightforward and direct manner. Norwegians will tell you they disagree when they do - and they expect the same courtesy from you. Try not to 'oversell' a product or an idea. Be objective in your discussions and do not be afraid to point out any weakness in your argument - this level of honesty will bring you respect and is much more likely to reap rewards than a more self-promotional approach. Silence is golden throughout most of Scandinavia. More is less,so if you don't have anything to say,don't speak! Do not feel the need to fill any silence with conversation. Silence is often used as thinking time and the prelude to what will be said next. Body language is quite minimal but do not take the lack of any overt signs of interest as disinterest. Reserve is a highly prized characteristic and it would be foolish to interpret lack of emotion as a sign of boredom or as lack of attention. Non-verbals Norwegians are known for being reserved, and in a harsh description, also a bit cold in their demeanor. Once a Norwegian friend is made, however, their kindness and hospitality is incomparable. Most Norwegian households provide a cozy atmosphere to sit and enjoy the company of others, or as Norwegians say, koselig. It is not common to say hello to strangers while out for a walk. Norwegians are smart-minded and serious. They take time to listen and respond appropriately. Understanding by nodding the head and the sounds, "mmm hmm 0 0 9 D" or the breathy "jahh" 0 0 9 D, are habits that signal someone listening intently to the conversation. Touching and wild displays of emotions are considered out of the ordinary.
Do’s & Tboos: -Punctuality is important. Norwegians appreciate punctuality for social engagements as well. If you must be late for any reason, make sure you call in advance and explain. -Standard business or business casual attire is the norm. It’s best for jewelry and accessories to be somewhat understated. -Tonality in business should be moderate. Norwegians prefer that people do not raise their voices when discussing something. -Body language, touching and gestures aren’t overly demonstrative, nor do Norwegians use extremes of expression in business. Do not ask personal questions until asked first, and don’t be offended if Norwegians do not inquire about your family or work. This is a rather private culture and personal and business lives are often kept separate. -Norwegians accept silence as normal, so don’t hurriedly fill in pauses in the conversation. Also avoid superficial conversation. -All Scandinavians appreciate it if you can show knowledge of the differences between the people of Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark. -During introductions, give a simple, firm handshake often with just one or two pumps. It’s not the norm to exchange gifts in ordinary meetings. Norwegians introduce themselves with their first name followed by their surname. -Many Norwegians have two given names and both are used as a ‘first’ name, for example Peter Marten or Selma Astrid. It is impolite to shorten the name to just the first of the two. -For business purposes, Norwegians sometimes introduce themselves by title if expected to do so. However when a relationship has been established, Norwegians usually move onto a first name basis. -There are few things Norwegians are openly offended by, and they regard themselves as worldly and unbiased. However, they do not appreciate loud or boisterous behavior in any context. -Norwegians prepare for meetings and expect you to have done the same. Punctuality is extremely important. -The Norwegian communication style is often seen as somewhat ‘direct’, and they will get to the point quickly and establish the boundaries before addressing the finer details. Facts and figures are very important and must be accurate. -Presentations should be concise, matter of fact and to the point. Any visuals or handouts should contain only the essential information. -In meetings and negotiations, Norwegians believe that everyone should be included and everyone should be given an opportunity to have a say. They consider and value all opinions. -Although negotiating teams may have a leader, they are not necessarily the main decision maker. Consensus after discussion is the goal, and because negotiating teams typically come to decisions as a group – negotiations can take longer. -There is a strong emphasis on equality and all members of a negotiating team are of equal value and status. Don’t be surprised if the lead is taken by a woman even when she is obviously younger than any of the men. -There is a high value placed on proven ability, and there is a defined management hierarchy. The authority to make a decision may be delegated down the management structure, however, there may also be a need to refer decisions sideways to ensure that all those affected have their say. -Norwegians have a great appreciation of nature and the environment. They make great efforts to protect their countryside and coastlines.
• Norwegians are punctual in both business and social situations.
• Confirm the dress code with your hosts.
• Offer to help the hostess with the preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.
• Do not discuss business. Norwegians separate their business and personal lives.
• Reciprocate any invitation.
• Table manners are more formal than one might expect of a culture that is informal and egalitarian.
• Hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
• Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.
• Most food, including sandwiches, is eaten with utensils.
• When you have finished eating, place your knife and fork across your plate with the prongs facing down
and the handles facing to the right.
• The male guest of honour, generally seated to the left of the hostess, thanks the hostess on behalf of the
other guests with the phrase "takk for maten" (thanks for the meal).
• The host makes a small speech and offers the first toast.
• Toast the host/hostess during the meal.
• Women may offer toasts.
• Toasts are made with alcoholic beverages, but not beer.
• When someone is being toasted, raise your glass, look at the person, take a sip, look at the person again, and
then return the glass to the table.
• Women must put down their glasses first after a toast.
Business Etiquette & Protocol in Norway If you were to think about the most important cultural attributes that you will see operating in business in Norway, they would be:
• Informal style
• Individual interests
• Transactional relationships
• Direct communication
Building Relationships & Communication Norwegians are transactional and do not need long-standing personal relationships in order to conduct business.
• Nonetheless, they prefer to do business with those they trust, so it is important that you provide information
about yourself and the company you represent prior to meeting your business colleagues.
• Relationships develop slowly and depend upon the other person being professional and meeting all agreed
upon deadlines.
• Giving a well-researched presentation indicates that you are serious about conducting business.
• The basic business style is relatively informal.
• Norwegians respect confident, self-assured businesspeople.
• They are excellent time managers who do not require face-to-face contact in order to conduct business.
• If you are like-minded, the relationship will develop over time.
• Appearing overly friendly at the start of a relationship may be viewed as weakness. Maintaining eye contact
while speaking is interpreted as sincerity.
• Norwegians are direct communicators.
• They have no difficulty telling their colleagues that they disagree with something that has been said.
• Their communication is straightforward and relies on facts.
• They are conservative and deliberate speakers who do not appreciate being rushed.
• They are scrupulous about honesty in communication, often to the point of pointing out the negatives in
their own proposals in greater detail than the positives.
• Norwegians are not emotive speakers and their body language is subtle.
Business Meeting Etiquette
• Appointments are necessary and should be made as far in advance as possible.
• Appointments may be made in writing or by telephone.
• If writing, address the letter to the head of the division, even if you do not know the person.
• Punctuality is imperative since it indicates trustworthiness.
• If you are delayed even 5 minutes, it is polite to telephone and explain the situation. Arriving late without
prior notice can damage a potential relationship.
• It is often difficult to schedule meetings during July and August, which are popular vacation times; during
the two weeks before and after Christmas; and during the week before and after Easter.
• Meetings are rather informal.
• Send an agenda before the meeting so that your Norwegian colleagues can be prepared.
• There is not much small talk. Norwegians prefer to get to the business discussion quickly.
• Presentations should be precise and concrete, and backed up with charts, figures and analysis.
• Avoid hype or exaggerated claims in your presentation.
• Leave time for Q&A at the end of a presentation. Norwegians do not interrupt and will save their questions
until you have finished speaking.
Negotiating Decisions are consensus driven.
• Expect decisions to take time as your colleagues must weigh all the alternatives.
• Present a firm, realistic, and competitive initial price and expect a minimum of bargaining.
• Price is often the most important deciding factor.
• Norwegians do not generally give discounts, even to good customers or for large orders.
• Norwegians are detail oriented.
• Maintain eye contact while speaking.
• Negotiations are frank.
• Avoid high-pressure sales tactics.
• It is imperative to adhere to deadlines and commitments. If you do not, you will not be considered
trustworthy, which will destroy the business relationship.
• New concepts should be shown to be high quality, practical, and already market tested.
• Do not interrupt others while they are speaking.
Dress codes
• Norwegians are notoriously informal, particularly in clothing. Norwegians don't usually dress smart for work
and rather casually most of the time. Although some may dress up for a restaurant visit, casual dress is fully acceptable virtually everywhere.
• Norwegians find it perfectly natural to wear sport clothes and rucksack anywhere.
• Norwegians generally don't dress very formal. Blue denims are used everywhere. if you somebody with a
fashionable suit and tie (in the midle of the day), it is probably a real estate or stock broker.
• Norwegians don't hesitate to strip down to bikini or short pants in warm, sunny weather. Don't be surprised to
see shoppers in bikinis and short pants only.
Food, meals and alcohol
• Norwegians usually eat a quick lunch (bread, coffee) around 12:00, and leave work/school around 15:30.
• Bread and potatoes are basic food stuff in most homes.
• Open sandwiches (slices of dark bread with meat, jam or whatever spread) is a the most common way of
eating.
• Many Norwegians eat whale and find that perfectly OK. (Avoid the topic unless you want a heated discussion.)
• Most people eat dinner at home around 17:00 or 18:00. Late dinners (like in Spain) is unusual.
• In the country side, some people eat dinner at noon and go back to work after a good nap.
• Danes can drink in the morning, Norwegians don't. There is a tradition of not drinking on week days. Don't
expect to be offered wine or other alcohol in private homes, coffee (or tea) is standard. A lot of Norwegians get rather drunk on fridays and saturdays, but alcohol consumption is on average modest.
• Beer is the only alcohol available in shops at restricted times. Wine, strong beers and spirits can be purchased
by the bottle only at the state liqour store (Vinmonopolet) which may not be easy to find. Ask any Norwegian they know how to find them. First time visitors are often shocked by Norway's alcohol price structure.
Manners
• Keeping calm and not displaying strong emotions in public are common virtues in Norway.
• Despite the emphasis on modesty, Norway mostly has a low-context style of communication.
• Although the feeling of being one nation is strong, there are strong individualistic and egalitarian attitudes,
being self-reliant and equal is highly regarded. Norwegians are not impressed by titles and formal positions, and are famously direct (getting straigth to the point) and informal.
• Authoritarian manners are disliked and will cause disrespect. Boasting is disliked.
• Being punctual is a matter of showing respect. Very important for business meetings (better arrive 5 min too
early), generally important even for private appointments, for formal dinners it is acceptable and even customery to arrive some 10 min after the given time.
• While informal, Norwegians generally have a reserved body language and may appear as cold or aloof.
6. Don't Drink and Drive This might seem like overstating the obvious, as this is illegal in any country, but Norway enforces very strict laws for drunk drivers. A single beer can put you over the limit, which can result in a small fortune in fines, or prison. More » 7. Don't Criticize Keep negative comments to yourself. Criticism of anyone's system is frowned upon. Criticizing the hefty sales tax can come across as uninformed (there ARE reasons for it). The same holds true to the practice of whale hunting, a topic that can get environmentalists hot under the collar. Eating whale meat is something that Norwegians find completely natural. Norway is considered an advanced culture of peace and progress - after all, this country is a sponsor and host of the Nobel Prize. 8. Don't Compare Them to the Rest of Scandinavia Enough said. Norway is an entity on its own, and even if it shares close proximity to its neighbors, Norwegians tend to keep to themselves 9. Don't Act Like a Hooligan You’ve procured an invite, so its time to look at Norwegian etiquette. First of all, don’t be late. Don’t be early. Be on time, even if it means that you have to drive around the block a couple of times. When it comes to dining, Norwegians hardly ever eat with their hands. Even sandwiches are eaten with utensils. Dinners are usually a long and jolly affair, so if you want to be considered to be raised by a pack of wolves, leave straight after dinner. It is the norm to stay behind and help the host to clean up. And last but not least, don't trash your hotel room. 10. Don't Wear Shoes Indoors Once you’ve made a few friends during your travels, chances are that you will be invited over for a visit. Norwegians tend to remove their shoes before entering a house, so wear clean socks. Only keep your shoes on if the host suggests it. 11. So, where do these things of what not to do in Norway come from? Norwegians view themselves as ‘egalitarian’ and their culture is based on mutual respect and interdependence. They do not puff themselves with individual achievements, and they have simple tastes. The Jante Law attitude may be a bit dated but is still found in many places in Denmark and Norway. The Jante Law as a concept was created by author Aksel Sandemose and it stated:
• You shall not think you are special.
• You shall not believe you are smarter than others.
• You shall not believe you are wiser than others.
• You shall not behave as if you are better than others.
• You shall not believe that you know more than others.
• You shall not believe that you can fix things better than others.
• You shall not laugh at others.
• You shall not believe that others care about you.
• You shall not believe that you can teach others anything.
In modern day Norway, this law is no longer considered modern and just used as tongue in cheek, but its basics survive. It should give travelers quite a clear idea of what is expected of you as a traveler in Norway.
http://www.nhh.no/Default.aspx?ID=
http://www.circlesofexcellence.com/blog/2013/02/cultural-clues-dos-taboos-communication-guidelines-for-norway/
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/norway-country-profile.html
http://www.norwayconnects.org/sofn/scholarships/scholarship-tips/1-pages/79-communication
http://www.studyinnorway.no/Living-in-Norway/Languages-dialects
