Telescope Services

💼 What makes Swedish work culture stand out?
Here’s a quick illustrated guide to some of its most defining values—featuring fika, flat hierarchies, flexibility, and collaboration.

☕ FIKA
Fika is a beloved tradition in Sweden, where coworkers take time during the day to share coffee, pastries, and conversation. The word dates back to the 19th century and comes from reversing the syllables of kaffi (an old Swedish word for coffee). But more than the drink, fika is about slowing down, connecting with colleagues, and creating a moment of calm in the middle of a busy day. In many workplaces, fika is a cornerstone of team culture.

👋 FIRST NAME BASIS
One of the first things newcomers notice is how informal Swedish offices can be. Everyone’s on a first-name basis, even the CEO! This reflects the country’s flat organizational structures and belief in equality. Hierarchies exist, but they don’t dominate daily interactions. What matters is your contribution, not your title.

⏰ FLEXIBILITY
In some countries, staying late and skipping breaks might signal dedication. In Sweden, it might raise eyebrows. Here, work-life balance is taken seriously. Many companies offer flexible hours, and it’s completely normal to leave work early to pick up your kids or run an errand. Being present doesn’t mean being glued to your desk, it means getting the job done while also respecting your life outside of work.

🤝 COLLABORATION
You’re not just encouraged to contribute, you’re expected to. Whether or not something falls strictly within your job description, it’s welcomed when you offer ideas, ask questions, or suggest a better way of doing things. Swedish workplaces tend to favor consensus-based decision-making, where everyone’s input helps shape the final outcome. It might take a bit longer, but it leads to stronger buy-in and more thoughtful solutions.

At Telescope, we believe this culture is one of Sweden’s greatest assets. It’s part of what makes working and living here such a rewarding experience!