- Most restaurants do not require a tie for men, although upscale restaurants do require both men and women to dress well.
- While it is rare to be invited for a breakfast meeting, business lunch and dinner is a more widespread practice. Keep in mind, however, that it is not always the right time to make business decisions. Follow the lead of your Swedish counterpart. If they bring up business, it is OK to discuss it.
- Formal restaurants are recommended for business meals.
- Make reservations in advance.
- To summon the waiter, make eye contact. It is considered very impolite to wave or call out. While tips are generally included in the total price, waiters usually expect an added 10%.
- Usually, the person who called for the meeting pays the bill, but the guest is expected to make an effort to pay. It is not uncommon for Swedish businesswomen to pick up the check, especially if they are on an expense account.
- Spouses are normally invited to business dinners, but not to lunches.
- During December, you may be invited to ‘Smorgasbord’ – a traditional “Swedish Table”. Make sure you haven’t had a big meal right before you arrive, as you will be expected to make several visits to the table, sampling a different dish each time.
- Most Swedes will not invite people to their homes spontaneously. Invitations will be sent weeks in advance, in order for the event to be properly planned.
- If you are invited to a Swede’s home, it is a good idea to bring flowers, a bottle of wine, or a box of chocolate. If you do bring flowers, make sure the bouquet doesn’t include white lilies or chrysanthemums, which are customarily given at funerals.
- Call or write the next day to thank your hosts.
- If you are given a gift, it is customary to open it upon receipt.
