Norway has a very distinct culture based on the Scandinavian countries. Being aware of the culture-based communication styles in Norway can be beneficial in the context of business.

For instance, knowing that the Norwegian culture is known for being somewhat reserved, but also friendly and welcoming, will help employers foster an inclusive environment, encourage ideas, promote productivity and improve client relationships.

About ‌Norway

Norway is a country with a population of 5.2 million, and it is one of the most sparsely populated countries in Europe. Norway is one of the smallest and most sparsely populated countries in Europe with a population of 5.3 million. It is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government.

It has the largest sovereign wealth fund in the world, and it is considered to be one of the most stable economies in Western Europe. The population is mostly white (94%), with small numbers of indigenous Sami people living in the northern part of the country.

‌Norway's culture-based communication style‌

  1. Informality is a key element of Norwegian culture. Norwegian businesspeople tend to use first names with each other when they meet at work.
  2. In Norway, people are not afraid to speak their minds. They will often be direct about what they want or need. This can make it difficult for people from other cultures who prefer to save face or avoid conflict by avoiding direct questions.
  3. Besides being direct, Norwegians tend to be concise and polite when they speak with one another. They also value silence as much as talking.
  4. It is also important for foreigners to be aware that Norwegians have very little tolerance for small talk. They prefer instead to get straight to the point of what they are saying without wasting time on unnecessary pleasantries or small talk.
  5. Norwegians are also very independent in business communication. They would rather come up with their own solutions to problems than ask for help from others. This can cause problems when working with people who need more guidance and instruction on how to do something.
  6. The Norwegian culture values the importance of time, so it is important to be punctual when meeting someone from Norway.

‌Non-verbal communication in‌ Norway

  1. In business settings, it is common for people from Norway to shake hands with everyone at the beginning of a meeting and greet them again before ending a meeting.
  2. In Norway, direct eye contact is expected as a sign of honesty and respect.
  3. Norwegian culture also requires that personal space be respected at all times. When meeting new people, this means that you should give them their space
  4. Norway is a country where people are reserved, so their expressions of emotions are often subtle. Norwegians tend not to smile or laugh very often, which can make them seem cold or unfriendly.
  5. Another thing that might trip you up is that Norwegians tend not to use gestures when communicating verbally; instead, they rely on tone and inflection instead of physical movements like pointing or waving their hands around wildly while speaking.