BDO in Ukraine Launches a series of events dedicated to Ukrainian business collaboration with international partners.
Sweden was our starting point. In collaboration with the Swedish-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce in Scandinavia our company organized the first online event on April 10th titled “Navigating Swedish Business Culture: Important Insights for Ukrainian Entrepreneurs”. This event brought together Ukrainian entrepreneurs and individuals keen on gaining deeper insights into Swedish business culture.
The speaker at the event was Liudmyla Lemrini, President of the Swedish-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce in Scandinavia, who has been residing in Sweden for a long time and possesses extensive experience in fostering professional connections between Ukrainian and Swedish businesses..
Below, we would like to share the key insights we discussed at the event.
- International Business in Sweden: When conducting business abroad, it is crucial to adapt to the local culture to avoid cultural shock, which can harm business relations.
- Cultural taboos: In Sweden, it is important to avoid conflicts and not to emphasize personal titles, experience, or education, as they don't value boasting. Swedes initially keep formality in relationships but quickly go on first names. It is important to avoid personal topics and not criticize the Swedish way of life or society. Racist or sexist jokes are unacceptable.
- Business relations: Swedes enjoy conversation and are proficient in English, facilitating business communication, especially with the younger generation. It is important to note that in Sweden, verbal agreements are considered as important as written ones, as Swedes expect a serious commitment to these promises. They also respect formal contracts. When negotiating with Swedes, be prepared for exhaustive discussions, as they value a democratic approach to decision-making.
- Establishing contact: When communicating with Swedes, it is essential to be restrained and not show power or emotions. Swedes value straightforwardness, efficiency, and listening skills, so express yourself clearly and wait for your turn. Maintain distance, keep handshakes short and firm. Avoid hands in pockets and refrain from using body language, maintain eye contact.
- Business meeting planning: Plan business meetings in advance, avoiding last-minute changes, with confirmation and agendas sent in advance. Mornings are the best time for meetings, as Swedes spend evenings with their families, so don’t schedule anything after 4:00 PM. Summer and holidays are vacation times; take this into account. Business in Sweden is conducted calmly, professionally and without excessive humor, and punctually. Respect personal life and refrain from calling outside working hours unless urgent.
- Conducting meetings: Notify about meetings in Sweden in advance, at least two weeks prior. At the beginning of the meeting, exchange business cards and address colleagues by their first names. Swedes usually get straight to the point, skipping irrelevant conversations. Meetings follow a pre-determined agenda without unnecessary discussions. Decisions are made collectively and without haste, usually not on the first meeting.
- Business lunches: In Sweden, business lunches are key to building relationships, lasting from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM and rarely exceeding an hour. Reserve a table in advance for official meetings, where a reasonably priced set lunch without alcohol is available. Breakfast meetings are not typical, as Swedes eat at home. Business lunch is not intended for signing agreements, and smoking in restaurants is prohibited.
- Rules established in Swedish business culture: Always maintain distance in communication in Sweden and respect the uniqueness of their culture, avoiding comparisons with neighboring countries. Express criticism only in private. Build relationships by planning multiple meetings and be patient with Swedish deliberations. Avoid displaying wealth, as Swedish society values equality.
- Recommendations: Build trust with Swedish businesses through regular visits and participation in both local and international events. It's essential to collaborate with scientific parks in Sweden, of which there are over 140, where influential experts and business leaders can be met. This opens up opportunities for partnership and investment in innovative projects.
Liudmyla Lemrini emphasized that success in Swedish business requires not only understanding these cultural aspects but also readiness to adapt and respect local traditions and values. For example, the tradition of Fika — a short coffee break — holds significant importance in the corporate culture of Swedish companies. Regularly missing it may lead to mistrust among colleagues.
If you are interested in learning more, you can watch the webinar recording.
