Finnish Misconception

At first glance, tourists and visitors to Finland usually have a perception that Finnish people are rude. And part of that notion is true. Not that Finns are moreso than many other countries, but there are certain aspects of Finland that may leave a bad taste in your mouth.

Customer service in Finland is less than desirable. North Americans, who are accustomed to great customer service and outgoing personalities, might be struck with oddity when they walk into a store and nobody is there to greet them or help them. In actuality, Finns are generally introverted and will only serve a person who wants to be served and is asking for help. In addition, regarding the food and beverage industry, it is not expected to leave a tip after your meal because generally waiters are paid a good salary and do not rely on tips. Which means that sometimes the amount of "service" you get from your waiter might be less than desirable. In some instances, leaving a tip may be considered rude.

Living here for four years, I have gotten accustomed to the Finnish way of service. I don't expect a huge smile from the cashier or my waitress. However, when I do receive very good customer service, it is always a nice unexpected surprise and will brighten up my day.

Andrew and I were having a discussion yesterday about the Finnish rules of the road. In Canada, people are pretty selfish drivers, and if you happen to let a car merge in front of you, it is expected to receive a wave or gesture that the other driver appreciated your kindness. In Finland, I basically never get a wave. And it used to bother me a little bit, because I would expect some sort of gratitude.

Andrew pointed out that people don't wave because Finnish people are courteous drivers. And although at first glance you might think we are thinking in opposite ways, it means that Finns don't drive in a selfish manner. They drive in a way that benefits everybody on the road, not just themselves. So it is obvious that you'd let that car merge in front of you, and a wave is not expected because everybody drives in a courteous manner.

It is sometimes interesting to hear other people's perceptions, and something that used to bother me now seems like a daily occurrence that's not a big deal. And when the odd moment occurs that I do receive a wave or nice gesture of appreciation, it will leave me with a smile.