Business
Etiquette
Meetings are normally arranged from 0800 hrs in offices, alternatively
in restaurants for early afternoon appointments. Visitors should
always be punctual and wear either a suit or a jacket and tie, even
though Norwegians are generally pretty informal in their dress code.
If a late-morning meeting is arranged, it is good practice to issue
a lunch invitation – whoever extends the invitation usually
pays. Traditionally, lunch is a snack, but in a business context,
it may involve a more substantial meal.
English
is widely spoken, as is some French and German.
Normal business hours are 0800 to 1600 hrs.
Employees leave their offices promptly to return home for middag
(dinner), eaten at around 1700 hrs. However, an invitation to either
dine out or eat at the home of a business colleague will often be
scheduled later. Criticism of, or jokes about peoples, cultures
or systems should be avoided as many Norwegians pride themselves
on their ‘political correctness’. |
