Working in Sweden

By Dori Pinku

Typical Swedish managers are definitely different from managers in most other countries. They are more like coaches or planners, not so much "overseers". Managers are seen as specialists in an area, just like other staff members are specialists in their areas. They normally don't give specific orders. Rather, they (and your co-workers) expect you to take initiative and find solutions. A great deal of responsibility and decision-making is delegated and staff is used to reporting to several people. For a newcomer from a different country, it can be difficult to figure out who is in charge of what. If you need help, you simply ask. This is not a sign of weakness.

A thread of democracy runs through a company. The habit of trying to reach agreement before proceeding may seem like a slow process and inefficient to some. Don't be fooled though, things do get done. Most organizations are flat without much of a hierarchy and often consist of self-managed teams. While this would cause chaos in companies in many countries, it works well in Sweden. Perhaps due to the strong work ethic combined with being used to a high responsibility level. Staff wants to do a good job and see results. At the same time, the atmosphere can be described as relaxed and informal.

The importance of equality is a factor to keep in mind when working for a Swedish company. You are on first name basis regardless of position, age, gender, education, or title. Many young people are in leading roles. Seniority (or background) is not a critical determining factor, job performance is. You will also notice that both colleagues and mangers dress more casually than what you may be used to. You don't have to look or act the part to be accepted as a leader. Quite the opposite, showing off status is considered negative here.

You cannot miss the low stress level displayed at work. Swedes don't feel threatened by authorities, thus they are not afraid of making mistakes or taking risks if needed.

Notice there is a clear division between work and social life. Don't take it personally if you are not immediately asked about your background, family, education, etc. Also, small talk is not a big Swedish trait, which may make them seem cold or quiet at first.

Other important aspects to keep in mind:

• Be punctual. It's an insult to arrive late to, for example, meetings.
• Friendships or family in higher positions will not help your advancement here.
• There is basic, unspoken principle in this society, which states that everyone should pull their weight. Fairness is important.
• The Swedish word for moderation is lagom, which is favored in most situations.
• Five weeks vacation is common. Your colleagues often travel abroad or go to their vacation homes in the country (there is a strong connection to nature).
• It's not unusual for staff to have flexible work hours and arrive at different times.
• The standard workweek is 40 hours, but if you are asked to work more, you get extra compensation. Generally, you are not supposed to work more than 48 hours per week.
• If a colleague disappears for almost a year after childbirth, it's not because of illness. Parental leave is very generous and it applies to fathers as well.