CULTURE

 Finns believe there is a proper way to act in any circumstance.  Expect courteous behaviour.  Talk in moderate tones and do not do anything to call attention to themselves.  Serial conversation is the rule - i.e. listen to the speaker, wait for them to finish and then reply.  Interrupting is rude.

 Finland is an egalitarian society, which is reflected in their language, which has gender- neutral words.  The word hän is gender-neutral and means both "she" and "he“.  Finns are modest and don’t highlight their own accomplishments.  They view being humble and modest as virtues.

 Finnish Meeting Etiquette  Greetings are formal, with a firm handshake  When greeting a married couple, the wife should be greeted first.  Finnish Gift Giving Etiquette  When invited to a Finn's home, bring flowers chocolates or wine to the host.  Flowers should not be given in even numbers.  White or yellow flowers shouldn’t be given as they are used at funerals

 The sauna has a special role in the life of Finns.  It is an experience shared with family and friends.  Important business meetings may be followed by a sauna where the conversation is continued.  Saunas are found everywhere in Finland.  There are more than 2,000,000 saunas for a population of 5.2 million.