Business
Business is conducted formally in Finland. A formal
understated sense of dress is important. Punctuality is also very
important in Finland and being late is considered rude.
Appointments should always be made and confirmed. Meetings are
often strictly business and are not often over lunch. Finns do not
require a strong relationship prior to doing business, and business
often takes place over the phone, fax and via e-mail. However, the
sauna is an important part of the culture and it is not unusual for
business to be discussed in this environment on a more sociable
level. Finns are very direct and prefer getting straight to the
point. Often a verbal agreement may hold. At meetings business
cards are exchanged and should have, on the alternate side, details
in Finnish. Business hours are generally 8am to 4.15pm Monday to
Friday.
