When relocation to Sweden for work from the Netherlands, it's critical to grasp the distinctions between these two corporate cultures to ensure you're following the traditions—and not making any mistakes, which is especially crucial in the first few weeks or months in a new role. Coffee breaks, known as fika, consist of more than just having a cup of coffee at your desk to refuel. In Sweden, vacation means socializing, relaxing, and having fun. Lunch in Sweden differs from lunch in the Netherlands. 

Lunch is a big deal in Sweden, with a hot meal like pea soup and pancakes on Thursdays, which is a tradition, and the company of coworkers or business partners. Lunch is largely seen as a requirement in Netherlands corporate culture—just a basic sandwich at your desk. 

The Dutch are more prone to speak with coworkers in the halls, but the Swedish worker is more inclined to get stuff done swiftly and leave the workplace at about 15:00. The average Dutch worker works 1,419 hours per year, compared to 1,612 in Sweden. The Dutch are more inclined to work in the evenings or agree to work extra; Swedish employees would prefer to go home. 

The Dutch are quite optimistic at first impressions but may soon become brash and in your face, if things are not in order. Swedes are always involved in fights, which may be exhausting, and it can be difficult to extract thoughts and views from them. Both the Dutch and the Scandinavians have crystal clear brains, and if you get some Swedes to talk, you can have interesting talks with them.