Traditionally, the annual round of pikkujoulu (Little Christmas) parties begins on the fourth Saturday before Christmas. These are important events for most Finnish companies and are excellent opportunities to build your network to give your career a boost in the long term.

These events are normally festive and social; don’t expect to see a presentation regarding the last quarter’s sales figures. Nonetheless, don’t be misled. These are business events and should be approached as such.

Typically one can be expected to be invited to a multitude of parties. Your company, your partner’s company, non-profits or even important suppliers or clients of your employer may send you an invitation.

Client parties

This is where you need to be on your best behaviour. If you want to secure their business for the year ahead then you better not drink too much.

Many Finns wish to get to know potential business partners in a social setting. So even if no one is talking about possible deals, remember that you and your company are being evaluated.

Supplier parties

When the tables are turned and you become the client at a supplier’s party, you can expect a bit of the red carpet treatment.

Stay friendly and try to talk to everyone at the party. You may come across other contacts that can help your career, whether it’s through a job opportunity or a useful business contact. Keep a stack of business cards handy.

Your company party

It is hard to turn down glögi, the traditional spiced wine that is served at Finnish Christmas events. So feel free to have a glass, but be very aware of how much alcohol you drink. Rather use the party as an opportunity to get to know your colleagues better.

Make a special effort to be friendly and speak to the partners of your colleagues. It never hurts if your boss’s spouse has a good impression of you.

Your partner’s Christmas party

If you’re invited you’ll generally get a run through of the do’s and don’ts from your partner beforehand. Don’t ask Jussi how his wife is (they divorced three weeks ago), don’t ask Heidi and Tuomas how their relationship is going (nobody else in the office knows) and definitely don’t harass the boss about the poor pay the company offers. Remember that you’re there to support your partner.

The Christmas parties are important events on the Finnish social calendar, so make sure you have fun and use them as the excellent career-building opportunities they are!