About Norwegian business culture
Norwegian business life means flat structure and little hierarchy. The main thing that the international community points out when talking about the Norwegian culture is our unique work-life balance. You may have heard the term: You either work to live or live to work. Well, we work to enjoy life.
Here are some key elements of Norwegian business culture:
In norway a big part of the work life is equallity. We belive that everyone is equal despite your gender, ethnicity, sexuallity, religion or political views. We are one of the worlds top rated country when it comes to equality and we are not stopping there. For example, there are almost as many women as men working in norway, and the numbers of higher education are roughly equal. There is also a strong emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, and the comapnies are supportive employment development and growth.
Employees are often included in making decisions and are used to speaking up and contributing in various circumstances. Remember to involve people in decisions and see yourself as the first among equals. It helps to see the flat structure and openness in Norway as a tool to achieve results and not a threat.
Cooperation is highly valued and the basis for the “Norwegian model” is the cooperation between the Government, the employer federations and the employee organisations. At company level, cooperation between employers and employees, and between managers and subordinates, is vital.
There is also usually an informal tone among coworkers in norway. As an employee you are expected to be treated with respect, irrespective of your position in the company.
What to expect in a Norwegian work enviorment:
- Quick and informal communication
- Focus on cooperation
- Trust among people
- Empowered employees
- Balance of work and private life
- Risk willingness
A normal work day in norway is 8 hours per day in a 100% position. Although many employes allow flexible schedules the official office hours are 08-16. Maximun work hours per 24 hours are 9 and maximume per week is 40 hours. There are exaptions for periods of time, or if you have an flexible schedule. There are set of rules that applie for different kinds of work.