By DeskDemon

As a admin or VA, you will need to be prepared to deal with people from around the globe. While generally you will be fairly safe as long as you are courteous and polite in verbal and written correspondence, there are some etiquette issues unique to each country. Having a working knowledge of these cultural differences can help pave the way for a genial working relationship and even help bring new clients to the table for your employer.

When you travel to Sweden, you will likely experience their intense national pride and patriotism. This extends to pride in local areas like towns and regions. When you meet Swedish associates, you should shake hands with everyone – including women and children. Older people in particular expect handshakes, and if there is no one to introduce you then you should shake hands and introduce yourself. As you do so be careful to maintain eye contact and do not touch or embrace in public.

Generally when it comes to business and corporate culture, you should plan to be on time or early for meetings as the meetings will start on time. Do not allow the start of the meeting to pass if you are late without calling with explanation and apology. Generally you can expect English to be used for business, and it is not necessary to translate your business cards. You can expect clear agendas and stated purposes for meetings, and a clear presentation will help you make a great deal of headway with these tough negotiators.

Unlike in many other countries, if you are invited for a dinner party in Sweden you should be on time or even a little early. Dinner will be served immediately, and there will not likely be a cocktail hour. Toasting is formal, and you should not drink until after the host has toasted. Make careful eye contact and nod when toasting, and put your glass down immediately after the toast if you are a woman since no man can put their glass down until all women have done so. Keep your hands out of your lap, and try everything that is served. Generally you should call or write to thank your host the following day.

When it comes to business attire, men should wear conservative suits and ties. Women can wear dresses, suits or pantsuits. You generally will not need to exchange presents with business associates, but if you are invited into the home you should bring gifts for children and you can bring flowers or wine. Avoid items made in Switzerland. Also, Swedish colleagues often exchange Christmas gifts.

Interestingly, in Sweden women make up 48 percent of the work force. As a result of this, foreign businesswomen have little trouble doing business in Sweden, and a woman may – and should when appropriate – pick up the check in a restaurant without creating any stir or embarrassment.