Finnish customs and manners. PART II

So, customs and manners of Finland. Like said in my previous c&m post, Finland isnt ALL that different from other western nations, but does have a few oddities. Todays theme will be public places and acting in crowds. Finns are often notoriously known for being silent and straight forward. While this is true to some extent (ie. almost complete lack of small-talk between strangers or not well acquainted people), it isnt perhaps due to actual dig for silence or not willing to talk, but out of respect for other peoples and their privacy. Finns generally wont want to bother you, or anyone else in your typical normal everyday life situations. Lets grab an example, say travelling in a bus or tram, you most probably wont be spoken to, unless you explicitly (try to) start a conversation. However, this doesnt mean that a Finn in the tram would refuse to help you find your way somewhere on the map. Sounds a bit confusing doesn't it? I know it is, it's just that its kinda Finn mentality to mind their own business, and not poke their nose in other peoples doings.

So, how to act in public places? Ie. trams, buses, pubs, restaurants and so. One thing which comes in to mind is that "Finns are anal about time" (quoting my friend Gregory from Canada), which is true. One is expected to be punctual, believe me - dont be late, and if you are going to be late, let them know that, not 20 minutes later, but as soon as you notice you're going to be late.

If waiting for something in line, ie. buying a movie ticket, dont push or try to cut, this is considered quite rude, so be patient and wait in line like everybody else has to :)

Making noise is often a thing I've noticed many Finns oppose to, so if you're sitting in a pub, having a coffee with friends or talking on the phone in a tram, try not to do it loud. After all, you dont need the whole tram to know how your mothers flu is. :) Another good tip is to turn your cell phone on silent mode or at least a beep mode in (dining) restaurants, movie theaters and such. Try to think of this from the perspective of the other people in the same room/area - you will want hear what your friends are saying, but probably dont need to know what the next table is discussing. So, in a nutshell, dont use a loud tone of voice and dont call attention to yourself, unless you really want to do so.

Interrupting in conversations in often thought of as rude or annoying, so try not to interrupt - listen to the speaker, wait for them to finish and then reply.

No smoking! Finland has quite strict laws on smoking, so in public buildings do so in designated areas, or go outside. If smoking is allowed in a cafe or pub, it's generally polite to ask your company if they mind or not.

Sounds harsh? Well, it might take some time getting used to, however dont be discouraged by this to try to meet a Finn. Whom are not very quick to invite people home or to go out with them in the evening. But most Finns will probably be delighted on your initiative, as long as it is done in a positive manner! (remember to ask if its ok to sit in the same table/free chair, when joining a group).

Hope this helps! Feel free to email me/leave a comment! As most of these things ultimately boil down to an individuals opinion.