Swedish greeting culture is generally relaxed and informal, but it helps to know a few things.

When meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting (like a business meeting), a firm handshake is the most common greeting.

Among friends and sometimes colleagues who know each other well, a quick, one-armed or two-armed hug (a kram) is very common.

Swedes are very egalitarian and informal with names. Even in professional settings, it's typical to use first names immediately.

The most common greeting is simply "Hej" (pronounced like "hey"). For a slightly more enthusiastic "hello," you can say "Hejsan". To say "goodbye," use "Hej då"

Swedes typically get straight to the point. While a brief "Hur mår du?" (How are you?) might be used, the expected answer is generally a simple "Bra, tack" (Good, thanks) or "Fint" (Fine), and the person may or may not ask you in return.

Understanding the rhythm of Swedish social interaction is crucial, and it mostly comes down to a concept called "lagom" (pronounced LAH-gom), which roughly means "not too little, not too much; just right."

Here are some tips for navigating Swedish social life and communication in general

Keep your distance. Avoid unnecessary touching. Keep a respectable physical distance when talking.

Be on time. For social engagements, meetings, and classes, aim to arrive exactly on time, or perhaps a minute or two early. If you will be late, always send a message to inform the person.

Be patient. Don't mistake politeness for friendship. Join clubs, associations, or activities related to your interests—this is a common way to build connections.

Indirectness of No. Listen carefully for hesitation. Phrases like "We can think about that," "That might be difficult," or "Perhaps" can often be a polite way of saying no or expressing disagreement.

There is little formality between students and teachers/professors. Everyone is typically addressed by their first name.

Consensus and dialogue are key. Discussions, even on complex topics, are expected to be calm and fact-based, not emotional or aggressive.

If you are struggling or think you can't meet a deadline, tell your professor honestly and early. Swedes value honesty and planning over over-promising.

Join the fika! Attend without fail. Even if you don't want coffee or cake, just being present is crucial for building workplace relationships. Keep conversations relatively light and professional.

Treat everyone as an equal. Speak to your boss the same way you speak to a colleague. Expect your opinion to be valued, even if you are new or junior.

Work-Life Balance. Work is important, but a healthy private life is more important (lagom in action). Overtime is often seen as a failure of planning, not dedication.

Interviewing and self-expression in Sweden are deeply tied to the concepts of equality, modesty, and collaboration. It's about being authentic and competent without being arrogant.

Be humble but confident. Focus on the factual results of your work.

Taking all the credit. Swedes highly value collaboration and consensus.

Be factual and concrete. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) but focus your "Result" on measurable outcomes.

Show self-awareness. When asked about weaknesses, name a real one, and immediately follow it up with a clear, specific plan for how you are working to improve it.

Dress professionally, but neutrally.

Asking Questions. This is a crucial sign of interest and engagement.

Swedes have a profound respect for nature. This is embodied in the Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten), a unique law that gives everyone the freedom to roam and enjoy nature (hiking, foraging, camping) on public and private land, provided they do not disturb and do not destroy.

Gender equality is deeply ingrained. Household chores, parental leave, and professional roles are expected to be shared equally between men and women.

Swedes are proud of their robust social welfare system, which is funded by high taxes. This is based on a high degree of trust in the government and in each other to contribute and ensure everyone has a basic, lagom quality of life.

Silence is Comfortable. Swedes are comfortable with silence in conversations. Do not feel the need to rush in and fill the pause. They may be taking time to formulate a thoughtful response.

While not overtly religious, cultural holidays are deeply valued as occasions to gather. Major traditions like Midsummer (celebrating the longest day), Lucia (Saint Lucy's Day in December), and Valborg (Walpurgis Night) are celebrated communally to mark the changing seasons and dark winter months.

Language (English is Widespread, but Swedish Helps):

• English proficiency is very high in Sweden, especially in professional and urban settings. You can generally get by easily with English.

• However, learning Swedish (Svenska) is essential for fully integrating socially, accessing some higher-level jobs, and understanding cultural nuances. Take advantage of SFI (Svenska För Invandrare), the free Swedish language classes for immigrants, once you have your Personnummer.

Cashless Society:

• Sweden is nearly entirely cashless. Rely on your debit/credit card and the Swish app.

Healthcare:

• The universal healthcare system is excellent. Once registered in the population register (with a Personnummer), you are covered and pay a standard patient fee for doctor visits (usually SEK 200–300).
• For non-emergency advice, call 1177 (24/7 national healthcare advice line) or visit their website for guidance in English. For life-threatening emergencies, call 112.

Climate & Dressing:

• Winters are cold, dark, and long, especially in the north. Prepare with high-quality winter gear.

• The summer offers the famous "Midnight Sun" (very long days). Get good blackout curtains to help you sleep!