Коли люди переїжджають до Швеції, вони часто хвилюються, що не вписуються з місцевими жителями. Я згоден, це іноді може бути складним. Люди, які живуть тут, відрізняються від більшості інших людей багатьма різними способами. У той же час у нас багато подібності. Сьогодні ми навчимо вас, як точно вписатися, коли ви переїдете до Швеції як експат.
Не розмовляйте з незнайомими людьми
If you come from a country like the USA, it might be temping to strike up a conversation with someone to make a new friend. This is the last thing you want to do. In Sweden, we do not talk to strangers. Only if we really need help will we even consider asking a stranger on the street. Older people are often more open for a conversation, but young people will look at you like you are from mars.
So how are you supposed to make new friends? There are actually a few places were conversations between strangers is acceptable. A good example of this is in a bar. Find another person who seems lonely. Chances are he or she is there because they also want someone to speak with. That or they are just waiting for their friends. Other places where you might be able to make friends is at your job, at your university if your studying or if you join a sports club or any other activity.
Скаржитися на погоду
If there is something, we swedes enjoy, it is complaining about the weather. The weather is never perfect, it is always to warm or to cold. Otherwise it might be to windy or not windy enough. The takeaway: you can never say that the weather is perfect. Also, when you hear us complain about the weather, do not take us to seriously. We enjoy complaining, it is part of our culture.
Вивчайте шведську
In Sweden it is extremely easy to get around using English since almost everyone is pretty much fluent. However, this is no excuse not to learn to language. Even knowing a few words could help you connect with locals. Another benefit is meeting new people when you go to school to learn. It really is a win-win situation where you have nothing to lose.
Візьміть взуття
If you get invited to the home of a local, you do not walk in with your shoes on. Doing this is extremely rude and you will offend your host. In Sweden, we take of our shoes right after entering through the door. There are some exceptions to this rule, like when you are in a hurry, but generally you never walk in with your shoes on. If you ever want to be invited again, make sure you follow this rule.
Поважайте черги
Не має значення, де ви знаходитесь і що ви робите. Якщо є черга, ви її поважайте. Завжди. Іноді, коли ви хочете щось купити, ви можете спочатку не побачити запит. Просто знайте, що якщо навколо багато людей, вони цілком можуть бути в черзі. Тут, у Швеції, ми знаємо, хто перед нами, а хто після нас. Пропуск черги — одна з найгірших речей, які ви можете зробити, якщо ви хочете вписатися як експат. Що б ви не робили, переконайтеся, що ніколи не пропускаєте рядок. Колись.
Hopefully, these tips will help you fit in when you move to Sweden as an expat. We swedes might seem cold at first but give us a chance. We are quite friendly when you get to know us.
