Finnish work culture

While international management trends and standards have made their way to Finland, and organizational cultures differ, there are some typical characteristics in the Finnish work culture.

1. Low hierarchy     The culture in Finnish organizations is equalitarian and hierachy is low. Due to low power distance, people are expected to be treated as equals, regardless of rank and personal background. Work practices build on trust and self-direction and jointly agreed matters are adhered to.
2. Concise communication   Finland is a so-called high context culture where you need to learn how to read between the lines. For example, Finns are often frank, direct and problem-focused and can therefore come off as impolite or critical. In reality, Finns often think that what works well can be left unsaid and taken for granted. Modesty and humility are core virtues and silence often considered golden.
3. Work-life balance   Helsinki has been named as the best city for work-life balance and Finland as the best country in the world in a comparison of human well-being. There are many reasons for these results from long, paid vacations to generous family benefits and short commutes. Overall, Finns do not live to work but work to live. Organizational practices and society support this culture of work-life balance.