At the Norway Relocation Group, we’ve helped countless professionals from around the world make a successful move to Norway. We understand that a new job in a new country is an exciting prospect, but it can also be a little daunting. Every country has its own unique work culture, and Norway is no exception. Understanding the unwritten rules and social norms of the Norwegian workplace is one of the biggest keys to a successful and smooth transition. To help you prepare, we’ve drawn on our extensive experience to compile this list of 10 essential things you should know about Norwegian work culture before your first day.
1. The Pursuit of Work-Life Balance (Arbeidsliv)
One of the first things you’ll notice—and likely appreciate—is the cornerstone of Norwegian work culture: the concept of “arbeidsliv,” which translates to “work-life.” Unlike in many other cultures where long hours are often glorified as a badge of honor, Norwegians deeply prioritize a healthy work-life balance. The standard workweek is a strict 37.5 hours, and most people work from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. It’s not an exaggeration to say that offices are often nearly empty by 4:30 pm. This commitment to personal time is deeply ingrained in the national psyche and is robustly supported by strong labor laws.
Employees in Norway are entitled to a minimum of 25 days of paid vacation each year, and many companies we work with offer even more. This generous vacation allowance is meant to be used. It’s common for employees to take several weeks off, particularly during the summer months, to travel or spend time at their “hytte” (cabin)—a cherished Norwegian tradition.
Furthermore, Norway has one of the most generous parental leave policies in the world. New parents are entitled to a total of 49 weeks of paid leave, which can be shared between both parents. This policy powerfully reflects the Norwegian values of gender equality and the importance of both parents being actively involved in their children’s lives. For anyone new to this system, it can be a significant and wonderful adjustment. Embracing this focus on personal well-being will not only help you to avoid burnout but will also allow you to fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle that Norway has to offer.
2. Flat Hierarchies and Egalitarianism
From our experience settling professionals into their new roles, understanding the workplace structure is crucial. Norwegian workplaces are known for their exceptionally flat organizational structures and egalitarian principles. This means that the hierarchy is far less pronounced than in many other countries. While there are, of course, managers and bosses, their role is often seen as that of a coach or facilitator rather than a commander. They are expected to be accessible, approachable, and to lead by example, fostering an inclusive and collaborative team environment.
This emphasis on equality means that everyone’s opinion is valued, regardless of their position or seniority. Junior employees are not only permitted but actively encouraged to speak up, share their ideas, and even challenge the opinions of their superiors in a respectful manner. This can be surprising for those accustomed to a more top-down, deferential management style, but it is a fundamental aspect of innovation and collaboration in the Norwegian workplace.
This egalitarian approach extends to all aspects of the workplace, from the way people dress to how they interact. Titles are not as important as they are in other cultures, and it’s standard practice to address everyone by their first name, including the CEO. This informality helps to break down barriers and create a more relaxed, open, and productive atmosphere. If you are considering a move to Norway and need assistance navigating these cultural nuances and the practicalities of the relocation process, we at the Norway Relocation Group provide expert guidance and support. You can reach us through our contact page.
3. Direct and Trust-Based Communication
Communication in a Norwegian workplace is typically direct, honest, and to the point. Norwegians value clarity and straightforwardness, and they tend to say what they mean. This can sometimes be perceived as blunt by people from cultures where communication is more indirect and layered with nuance. However, in Norway, this directness is seen as a sign of respect and efficiency. It eliminates ambiguity and gets everyone on the same page quickly.
This communication style is built on a societal foundation of trust. Norwegians have a remarkably high level of trust in one another and in their institutions. This trust permeates the workplace, where it is assumed that everyone is competent, responsible, and acting in good faith. As a result, there is less need for micromanagement, constant follow-ups, and excessive documentation. A verbal agreement is often considered as binding as a written contract because a person’s word is their bond. When communicating with your Norwegian colleagues, our advice is to be clear, concise, and honest. Avoid “beating around the bush.” If you have a question, a concern, or a brilliant idea, don’t hesitate to voice it. Your directness will be appreciated.
4. Consensus-Driven Decision Making
In line with their egalitarian values, Norwegians prefer to make decisions by consensus. This means that important decisions are rarely made by one person in a vacuum. Instead, they are often made in groups, and all relevant parties are consulted and involved in the process. The goal is to have an open discussion, weigh all perspectives, and reach a decision that everyone can support and commit to, even if it’s not their original first choice.
This consensus-driven approach can be time-consuming, and we’ve seen it be a point of frustration for expats who are used to a more autocratic and fast-paced decision-making process. However, the significant advantage of this method is that once a decision is finally made, it is usually well-supported by the entire team. This shared ownership leads to a more engaged workforce and a much more efficient and smoother implementation phase. When you participate in a meeting in Norway, be prepared for a thorough, democratic discussion. Your input will be genuinely valued, and you will be expected to contribute to the conversation.
5. The Importance of Punctuality
Punctuality is highly valued in Norwegian culture, and this is especially true in the professional sphere. Being on time for meetings and appointments is a fundamental sign of respect for your colleagues’ time and a mark of your own trustworthiness. If you anticipate being even a few minutes late, it is expected that you will call or send a message ahead to inform the people you are meeting with.
This emphasis on punctuality is not just about meetings. It also applies to deadlines and general working hours. Norwegians are diligent and efficient workers during their contracted hours, and they expect their colleagues to be the same. This respect for time is what allows the excellent work-life balance to function so well.
6. A Casual and Practical Dress Code
The dress code in most Norwegian workplaces is informal and practical. Comfort and functionality are prioritized over formality. For men, a typical work outfit might consist of smart trousers and a shirt, with a blazer reserved for more formal occasions or client-facing roles. Ties are not always necessary. For women, a dress, skirt, or trousers with a blouse or smart sweater is common. The key is to look neat and professional, but not overly formal.
The concept of “Casual Friday,” or “Fredagskofte,” is also popular in Norway. On Fridays, the dress code is even more relaxed, and it’s common to see people wearing jeans and sweaters to the office as they look forward to the weekend. Of course, the dress code can vary depending on the industry (e.g., finance vs. tech). Our advice is always to observe what your colleagues are wearing during your first week and adjust your own wardrobe accordingly.
7. The Role of “Janteloven” in the Workplace
To truly integrate, it’s helpful to understand “Janteloven,” or the Law of Jante. This is not a formal law but a deeply ingrained unwritten social code that emphasizes humility, modesty, and the importance of the collective over the individual. The core tenets of Janteloven can be summarized by phrases like, “You are not to think you are anyone special” and “You are not to think you are better than us.”
In the workplace, Janteloven manifests in several ways. For instance, it is considered impolite to boast about your accomplishments or to draw excessive attention to yourself. Teamwork and collaboration are highly valued, and individual achievements are often framed as group successes. For those from more individualistic cultures where self-promotion is common, Janteloven can be difficult to understand. However, being mindful of this cultural underpinning and showing humility will help you build positive and authentic relationships with your colleagues. Navigating the complexities of a new culture alone can be challenging. For personalized assistance with your move to Norway, consider reaching out to our team. You can find our contact information at https://norwayrelocation.no/contact/.
8. Social Life at Work: Coffee Breaks and “Fredagspils”
While Norwegians may seem a bit reserved at first, they do enjoy socializing with their colleagues, and there are established rituals for this. Coffee breaks, or “kaffepause,” are an essential part of the workday. These are not just quick dashes to the kitchen but protected time to relax, have a proper chat with colleagues, and build relationships in an informal setting.
Another important social tradition in many Norwegian workplaces is “fredagspils,” which translates to “Friday beer.” It’s common for colleagues to go out for a drink together after work on Fridays to unwind and celebrate the end of the workweek. This is a great way to get to know your colleagues on a more personal level and become part of the team. We always encourage our clients to participate in these social events.
9. Generous Employee Benefits
Norway’s comprehensive welfare system provides a wide range of benefits to its citizens and residents, creating a strong social safety net. In addition to the mandatory benefits, such as excellent public healthcare, robust pensions, and unemployment insurance, many companies offer additional perks to their employees to attract and retain talent.
These can include things like private health insurance, subsidized gym memberships, and free or subsidized lunches in a “kantine.” Some companies also offer enhanced flexibility, such as the option to work from home, and even extra vacation days beyond the statutory minimum. These generous benefits contribute significantly to the high quality of life in Norway and make it an incredibly attractive country to build a career.
10. Navigating the Nuances: Seeking Our Support for Your Relocation
Adapting to a new work culture takes time, patience, and effort. It’s important to be observant, open-minded, and willing to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about a particular custom or process. Your Norwegian colleagues will appreciate your genuine efforts to understand their way of working and living.
Relocating to a new country involves so much more than just starting a new job. There are many practical and cultural aspects to consider, from finding a place to live to registering with the authorities. This is where we come in. If you need help with your relocation to Norway, we at the Norway Relocation Group offer a wide range of services to make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. From finding housing and schools to navigating the bureaucracy, our team of experts can provide you with the dedicated support you need. For more information, please visit our contact page: https://norwayrelocation.no/contact/.
By keeping these 10 things in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a successful and rewarding career in Norway.
We wish you the best of luck. Lykke til!