Office cultures vary widely around the world - in Japan, employees recite a daily motto together before work, while in South Korea drinking sessions with soju are important for building business connections. French workers have a "Right to Disconnect" protecting them from after-hours emails, and Germans avoid personal discussions at work. The document outlines unusual workplace traditions in various countries, showing how culture influences professional norms.

1. Here is a quick look at unusual office cultures from various countries.
Japan
When it comes to the workplace, Japan is a country that adheres to strict regulations.
Guests and seniors are given priority entry and exit from the elevator, a practice that can be
found in other Asian countries as well. Having dinner and drinks with coworkers outside of
the office is a casual routine for those in the workforce. The daily recitation of a workplace
motto and song before the start of a day is one of the most fascinating traditions. Prior to
working hours, employees are given the opportunity to work out together. The purpose of
this ritual is to get everyone pumped up for a productive day which is quintessential, with
Japan known for its long working hours.
South Korea
In South Korea, alcohol is considered a way to remove the falsehoods that prevent people
from connecting on a deeper and more meaningful level, making it an essential part of
building successful business connections. During these drinking sessions, Korean soju (rice
liquor) is the most widely consumed beverage, and many regards it as a magic potion to
relieve tension and develop long-lasting relationships.
France
When it comes to modern technology, you're never totally out of reach. When we're not at
work, many of us feel the need to check our phones and respond to work emails. Employees
in France are protected by a "Right to Disconnect" law, which states that most French
professionals are not obligated to answer after-hours emails. The policy was put in place to
ensure that workers weren't overworked. Office cafeterias across the country offer wine
and beer to diners. The French have a habit of taking long lunch breaks, often lasting up to
two hours. In addition, coworkers are also more reserved with each other. As a rule, they
avoid discussing their personal lives or keeping family photos on their desks.
Germany
Workplace small talk is virtually nonexistent for Germans, who may be even more reserved
than their French counterparts in this regard. Visiting a particular department requires
permission from the department's manager in the country, where workplaces are highly
regimented. Because of their dedication to jobs, Germans clock in 35 hours per week.
Spain
Many Spaniard’s daily schedules are incomplete without a siesta, their longstanding tradition
of taking an afternoon nap regardless of their timetables and deadlines. The employees work
40-hour weeks or more based on the industry they are engaged with. A mid-day nap in the
summer helps workers stay energized and productive by keeping them out of the harsh
midday sun and heat.

2. Sweden
Coffee breaks, known as fika in Swedish, are extremely important to the Swedes, who
believe that taking breaks increases productivity. Fika is a time for Swedish workers to relax
and socialize with their coworkers over a cup of coffee and a piece of cake. It's common for
some businesses in Sweden to have regular breaks for fika, which is an opportunity for
employees to get to know each other better. Fika is an essential part of the Swedish
workday, regardless of whether it is implemented more formally or informally.
Finland
Saunas are an integral component of many people's daily routines in Finland. The Finnish
sauna is a weekly ritual for the majority of Finns. They even conduct business meetings in
the sauna, as long as they're not too noisy. Annual "sauna parties" are common as a means
of fostering bonding among employees, but smaller gatherings are just as effective. These
amenities are available to everyone including the government and military sectors.
China
The Chinese, like many other Asian countries, put in long hours at the office, but they take
two-hour lunch breaks. Personal and professional lives are increasingly intertwined. They
consider it important to know people before doing business with them. Hence, many job
interviews and business discussions primarily focus on one’s personal life. The millennials
are beginning to follow the trend of drinking with their colleagues, which is longstanding in
China.
India
In India, there are no set working hours. People come in late, work long hours, take long
breaks, and are often still at their desks until the wee hours of the morning. Here, the
concept of work-life balance is non-existent. Once trust is established, friendships between
coworkers can blossom. The management structure is hierarchical in most companies, but
that doesn’t mean discussions don’t get heated, since Indians are known for their high level
of emotional involvement in their work. According to The Economic Times, being 15 minutes
late to a business meeting in India is still considered on time.
Iceland
Iceland, a pioneer in racial equality, has set a high bar for paternity leave. Each parent in an
Icelandic family is entitled to three months of paid leave after the birth of a child.
Subsequently, the couple receives an additional three months of leave to divide up. On
leave, each parent can expect to make up to 80% of his or her normal salary. A shared
experience with child care and the opportunity to form a close relationship with the new
baby are the goals of this approach.

3. To conclude,
In an ever-evolving workplace, companies that can modify their working methods to boost
productivity, long-term viability, and overall efficiency will thrive. Human aspects must be
taken into account when dealing with transition, particularly employee wellbeing and
satisfaction. Improved morale and talent retention can be achieved by identifying and
nurturing a strong culture and beliefs within an organization.