When I was 28, I got my very first job in Norway – at a youth institution, working every third weekend. After several early Sunday shifts, fueled by my Polish energy and eagerness to work as much as possible, my colleagues pulled me aside and whispered:
👉 “Aleksandra, we really appreciate your effort, but you’re ruining the whole tradition for us. Sunday mornings are for relaxing, drinking coffee, and reading the newspaper.”
Ok… I learned. From that day on, I spent my Sunday mornings on the sofa with a cup of tea, practicing how to be a little less Polish and a little more Norwegian.
Surprising cultural differences you should know
✅ “Vi får se” usually means “no”
To foreigners, it may sound like a polite “maybe.” In reality, it almost always means: „we are not interested in this” … or “It’s not going to happen.” If you don’t know this nuance, you might wait forever for a decision.
✅ Work and private life don’t mix
When the workday is over, it’s really over. Sundays, holidays, and vacation days are for taking time off. This is not a lack of commitment – Norwegians work hard when they work, but they set clear boundaries to protect both efficiency and private life.
✅ Traditions matter more than you think
From Easter in the mountains to Christmas “lillejulaften” (the day before Christmas Eve) and Christmas Eve itself… These traditions may look “just social,” but they carry strong value. Show curiosity, and you suddenly have the perfect opening for trust and connection.
✅ Stay grounded
Boasting or overselling rarely works in Norway. If you try too hard to impress, you risk losing credibility. Being open about both strengths and limitations builds trust – and often opens more doors.
Understanding these small cultural nuances can make the difference between being seen as a trustworthy partner – or as someone who “doesn’t quite get it.”
I learned it myself through a quiet Sunday morning on the sofa. Maybe this lesson can save you a few misunderstandings too.🟢 Want to prepare your team for the Norwegian market? I’m happy to help you translate these cultural nuances into real business success.