Workplace Wonders: Unique Office Traditions Around the Globe
Office environments around the world are as diverse as the cultures they represent. Understanding these diverse traditions can provide valuable insights into how businesses operate globally and how cultural values influence professional interactions.
And while the HR team is tasked with communicating policies and guidelines for workplace behavior. However, in some workplaces, local cultural influences continue to shape daily practices and habits.
Here’s a glimpse into some fascinating office traditions from different corners of the globe:
Finland
Occasionally, a particularly stressful meeting might leave you feeling a bit overheated. In Finland, this is simply part of the routine, as company meetings are sometimes conducted in saunas. This unique approach not only reflects the deep cultural connection Finns have with saunas but also serves a practical purpose. Regular visits to saunas are believed to help employees unwind and alleviate stress. Additionally, saunas are thought to offer therapeutic benefits, such as easing common ailments like asthma and joint pain.
Spain
The siesta is a cherished Spanish tradition that involves taking a midday nap or rest period, usually following lunch. This custom is deeply embedded in Spain’s cultural and climatic context, as it offers a way to escape the intense afternoon heat and recharge for the rest of the day. By allowing a break during the hottest part of the day, the siesta helps individuals maintain their energy levels and sustain productivity throughout the afternoon.
France:
With the advent of smartphones, we are now more connected than ever, often checking and responding to emails outside of regular work hours. In response to this constant connectivity, France enacted employment laws in 2016 that grant employees the ‘right to disconnect.‘ This legislation ensures that workers can fully disengage from work outside of their official hours without any obligation to respond to emails or other work communications.
China:
In some Chinese offices, it is customary for employees to take a short nap after lunch, a practice known as “xiuxi.” This midday rest period typically lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and is an integral part of the work culture in many companies. The practice of xiuxi is rooted in the belief that a brief nap can significantly enhance an employee’s productivity and alertness for the rest of the workday.
Japan:
In many Japanese companies, it is a common practice for employees to engage in group morning exercises called Rajio Taiso. This routine typically involves a series of simple, rhythmic movements performed to music broadcasted on the radio. The tradition of Rajio Taiso is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is believed to offer several benefits. By promoting physical activity at the start of the day, these exercises help improve overall health and physical fitness. Additionally, participating in Rajio Taiso fosters a strong sense of community and camaraderie among workers.