How to Sell, Socialize and Survive in Two Different Cultures: A Guide for Romanians and Norwegians

How to Sell, Socialize and Survive in Two Different Cultures: A Guide for Romanians and Norwegians

As a Romanian who has been working in Norway for some years, I have experienced some of the cultural differences that can affect the way we communicate, interact and do business with each other. In this blog post, I will share some of my observations and insights on the main cultural barriers between Romania and Norway, and how to overcome them.

Sales habits

One of the most noticeable differences between Romania and Norway is the way we approach sales. Romanians tend to be more aggressive, persuasive and emotional in their sales pitch, while Norwegians are more reserved, rational and factual. Romanians may use flattery, compliments, personal stories and humor to build rapport and trust with the customer, while Norwegians may focus on the quality, features and benefits of the product or service. Romanians may also negotiate more on the price, terms and conditions, while Norwegians may expect a fair and transparent deal from the start.

To bridge this gap, it is important to understand the expectations and preferences of each side, and to adapt your style accordingly. For example, if you are a Romanian selling to a Norwegian, you may want to tone down your enthusiasm and emotions, and provide more evidence and data to support your claims. If you are a Norwegian buying from a Romanian, you may want to show more interest and appreciation for the personal connection, and be prepared to negotiate more on the details.

Friends habits

Another difference between Romania and Norway is the way we make and maintain friendships. Romanians tend to be more open, warm and expressive with their friends, while Norwegians are more reserved, cold and distant. Romanians may invite their friends over for dinner, coffee or drinks frequently, while Norwegians may prefer to meet their friends in public places or for specific activities. Romanians may also share more personal information and feelings with their friends, while Norwegians may keep more things to themselves.

To bridge this gap, it is important to respect the boundaries and preferences of each side, and to not take things personally. For example, if you are a Romanian who wants to befriend a Norwegian, you may want to give them some space and time to get to know you better, and not expect them to open up too quickly. If you are a Norwegian who wants to befriend a Romanian, you may want to show more interest and curiosity about their life and culture, and not be afraid to express your emotions.

Men vs women rights

A third difference between Romania and Norway is the way we view gender roles and equality. Romania is still a patriarchal society where men have more power, authority and privileges than women, while Norway is one of the most egalitarian societies in the world where men and women have equal rights, opportunities and responsibilities. Romania has a high rate of domestic violence, gender discrimination and sexual harassment against women, while Norway has a high rate of female participation in politics, education and workforce.

To bridge this gap, it is important to educate ourselves and others about the human rights and dignity of all people regardless of their gender, and to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that perpetuate inequality. For example, if you are a Romanian man who works with a Norwegian woman, you may want to treat her with respect and professionalism, and not make any sexist or inappropriate comments or jokes. If you are a Norwegian woman who works with a Romanian man, you may want to assert yourself confidently and diplomatically, and not tolerate any abusive or disrespectful behavior.

Democracy

A fourth difference between Romania and Norway is the way we practice democracy. Romania is a young democracy that has been struggling with corruption, instability and populism since its transition from communism in 1989, while Norway is an old democracy that has been enjoying stability, prosperity and trust since its independence in 1905. Romania has a low level of civic engagement