Portuguese Cultural Standards from a Norwegian perspective

The topics of cross cultural management and cultural differences have been widely discussed during the last decade as a result of the world¿s globalisation. Despite an increased internationalisation there are still many, and wide cultural differences to consider when operating in a cross cultural environment. To be successful when dealing with business relations outside of one¿s own national culture, it is important to prepare for and be aware of possible cultural differences that may appear. The author has studied the differences between the Portuguese and Norwegian cultures in order to identify Portuguese cultural standards from a Norwegian perspective. The cultural standards were identified after conducting and analysing narrative interviews with Norwegians who have worked in Portugal. This is done by applying an innovative way of researching cultural differences, The Cultural Standards Method. This monograph can be recommended to Norwegian managers who are about to encounter the Portuguese business culture for the first time. The results are also interesting for Portuguese who wish to have an insight in how Norwegian managers consider the Portuguese business culture.