International Trade and Business, Speech Example

The key element of successful international trade and business, is knowing the tricks common in particular country. Sweden today, is one of the most perspective trade markets for expanding business, thus our company can realize there its huge potential. I would like to discuss some basic factors of Swedish business communication, like organizational structures, business meetings, and some dos and dont’s of their business environment.

The predominant number of Swedish companies tends to have shorter chain of command when it comes to internal organizations, thus being less hierarchical. The company management tends to erase some chain-of-command levels, making the director more accessible for regular employees. “It’s possible for employees to take their comments, questions or concerns directly to the boss.”(Porter, 2006) Most of workers in Sweden belong to some kind of union, which ensures excellent working conditions and implements job security for the employees. Business people in Sweden tend to rely on compromise and consensus when making decisions.(Porter, 2006)

There are certain rules and requirements for business meetings to be arranged in Sweden. You better not to arrange in June, July, August, and late February through early March. Moreover, the prior notice of at least two weeks must be given. Swedish business people are extremely detail focuses, thus you must be concise and well prepared when discussing business affairs.(Kwintessential Cross Cultural Solutions, 2008) Swedes prefer direct communication and never take decisions during the first meeting, thus try to be sincere and do not rush, to leave a good impression. As you are trying to sell something, you better turn down the use of superlatives or emphasis, for you may look insincere in the eyes of Swedish business people.

Overall, there are certain things you just have to do and follow to succeed in this country. When doing business with Swedes it is preferable to learn their language, or at least some phrases, for they take it as respect. For example, there is a Swedish word ‘lagom’. “Essentially, “lagom” means “just right” or “adequate” and can be used for just about anything.”(Porter, 2006) Another good thing to learn would be Swedish tax laws, for it is essential for starting your business over there. You also must be punctual and never late for meetings, as well as patient, when trying to expand your business. Swedes do not rush with making decisions, thus you will need to wait and it will be rewarded in the end. Mind, that in this country the key to success is a hard work, thus you have to be ready for it.

Along with the things that have to be followed, there are certain actions that must not be performed. You must not in any case use force or put pressure upon your Swedish partners. “Swedes are not so receptive to new thoughts/plans if they feel that they are being forced upon them.”(Porter, 2006) In the conversation you better avoid boasting or bragging, for these to aspects are not acceptable in that country. Finally, you have to fully comprehend and understand Swedish culture, thus you will not look disrespectful, which is extremely important.

All in all, starting business in Sweden is potentially beneficial and very perspective idea. However, it takes a lot of effort and time, for Swedish people do not like to rush and draw hasty conclusions. Therefore, in order to succeed in Swedish business environment one has to be punctual, patient, and follow major customs and traditions of Swedish business communication.

References

Porter, A. (2006). Taking care of business in Sweden. Swedish Institute. Retrieved May 5, 2009, from http://www.sweden.se/eng/Home/Business/Business-culture/Reading/Taking-care-of-business-in-Sweden/

Kwintessential Cross Cultural Solutions. (2008). Sweden – Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. Retrieved May 5, 2009, from http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/sweden.html/