Understanding Finnish Social Etiquette

Finnish society is characterized by a deep respect for personal space, honesty, and directness. Understanding these cultural nuances can greatly enhance your ability to form friendships.

Celebrate Personal Space: Finns value personal space highly. It’s important to respect this in social settings by not being overly intrusive or loud.

Appreciate Silence: In Finland, silence is not awkward but a form of communication. It’s perfectly fine to share a quiet moment with a Finn without feeling compelled to fill the air with small talk.

Be Direct and Honest: Finns appreciate direct communication. When making friends, being straightforward and honest about your intentions and feelings can help in forming trustful relationships.

Join Local Clubs and Societies

One of the best ways to meet people in Finland is through local clubs and societies. These groups are often centered around shared interests or activities, providing a natural setting for meeting like-minded individuals.

Sports Clubs: Joining a sports club can be a great way to meet locals. Whether it’s ice hockey, skiing, or running, participating in sports can also help improve your physical health and wellbeing.

Cultural Societies: If sports aren’t your thing, consider joining a cultural society. Book clubs, art classes, or choir groups are great places where you can meet people who share your interests.

Language Exchange Meetups: Participating in language exchange meetups can not only help you improve your Finnish or Swedish (Finland’s official languages), but also meet both locals and fellow expats.

Utilize Social Media and Apps

The digital age has made it easier than ever to connect with people. Utilizing social media platforms and apps can help break the ice and initiate connections with potential friends in Finland.

Facebook Groups: Join Facebook groups targeted towards expats in Finland. Groups like “Expats in Helsinki” or “Espoo Foreigners” can provide valuable information and organize meet-ups.

Meetup.com: This website organizes group events based on interest. It is a fantastic tool for finding and attending local events where you can meet people face-to-face.

Nextdoor: This app is great for connecting with your neighbors. It can help you get to know the people living near you and discover local events.

Participate in Local Events and Festivities

Finland hosts a variety of cultural and public events throughout the year. Participating in these events can be a fun way to meet people and experience Finnish culture firsthand.

National Celebrations: Finland’s National Day, Midsummer, and Vappu (May Day) are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Joining in these festivities can provide opportunities to socialize and learn more about Finnish traditions.

Music and Food Festivals: Festivals are social gatherings that attract large crowds. Look for events like Pori Jazz, Savonlinna Opera Festival, or local food festivals where social interaction is encouraged.

Volunteer Activities: Volunteering can be a rewarding way to meet people. Look for opportunities in local charities, environmental organizations, or other community groups.

Networking Through Work or Study

Your workplace or educational institution can be a great starting point for making friends in Finland.

Work Colleagues: Engage with your colleagues through work events or casual after-work activities. Many Finnish companies organize recreational activities like bowling nights or after-work drinks.

University Clubs: If you are studying, join university clubs or societies. These can provide a social setting and introduce you to other students with similar interests.

Professional Networking Events: Attend industry-specific seminars, workshops, or networking events. These can help you connect with professionals in your field and expand your social circle.

Be Patient and Persistent

Making friends in a new country takes time and effort. It’s important to be patient and persistent in your social endeavors.

Regular Participation: Consistently participating in clubs or events will help you become a familiar face, making it easier to develop friendships over time.

Initiate Plans: Don’t be afraid to take the initiative to suggest activities or meet-ups. Many Finns, while reserved at first, appreciate someone taking the lead in social settings.

Stay Open and Positive: Keep an open mind and maintain a positive attitude. Friendships might not form overnight, but with the right approach, you can build lasting relationships in Finland.

By following these tips and embracing the Finnish way of life, you can make the process of making friends in Finland as an expat both enjoyable and successful. Remember, every connection you make enriches your experience and helps you feel more at home in your new environment.