Business Norwegian: Mastering the Art of Email Writing for Professional Success

In the heart of Oslo’s bustling business district, you settle into your office chair, ready to tackle another day of international correspondence. As your computer screen flickers to life, you’re greeted by an inbox brimming with emails—a mix of English and Norwegian messages. A familiar sense of trepidation washes over you as you hover your cursor over a message from a potential Norwegian client. Despite months of establishing your company’s presence in this prosperous Scandinavian market, the nuances of business communication in Norwegian still feel like a labyrinth you’re navigating blindfolded.

At NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo, we’ve guided countless professionals through this exact scenario. Our experience has shown that with the right approach and practice, anyone can master the art of Norwegian business emails. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of Norwegian business culture, email structure, and essential phrases to elevate your professional communication skills.

For those looking to fast-track their business Norwegian skills, including email writing, consider our personalized 1-to-1 private classes. These tailored sessions can significantly accelerate your learning and provide focused practice on business communication. Learn more and register here: https://nlsnorwegian.no/private-classes-1-to-1-learn-norwegian/

1. The Importance of Email Etiquette in Norwegian Business Culture

Norwegian business culture is a unique blend of professionalism, egalitarianism, and directness. Understanding this cultural context is crucial for crafting emails that resonate with your Norwegian colleagues and clients.

1.1 Directness and Clarity: The Norwegian Way

In Norway, beating around the bush is not just unnecessary—it’s often seen as inefficient. Norwegians value straightforward communication. This principle applies strongly to email correspondence.

Instead of writing: “Jeg lurte på om det kanskje kunne være mulig, når det passer for deg selvfølgelig, å eventuelt planlegge et møte en gang neste uke for å diskutere prosjektforslaget, hvis det fungerer for deg?” (I was wondering if it might be possible, at your convenience of course, to perhaps schedule a meeting sometime next week to discuss the project proposal, if that works for you?)

A more Norwegian approach would be: “Kan vi planlegge et møte neste uke for å diskutere prosjektforslaget? Jeg er tilgjengelig tirsdag eller torsdag ettermiddag.” (Can we schedule a meeting next week to discuss the project proposal? I’m available Tuesday or Thursday afternoon.)

This directness isn’t rudeness; it’s a cultural preference for clear, efficient communication.

1.2 Formality and Respect: Finding the Right Balance

Norway is known for its flat hierarchies and casual work environments. However, there’s still an expectation of professionalism, especially in initial interactions.

Start with a respectful formality, but be prepared to adjust your tone as the relationship develops:

First email: “Kjære Direktør Andersen,” (Dear Director Andersen,)

As the relationship progresses: “Hei Kari,” (Hi Kari,)

1.3 Punctuality and Responsiveness: The Heartbeat of Norwegian Business

Time management in Norway is not just a skill—it’s a cultural value. Aim to respond to emails within 24 hours, even if it’s just to acknowledge receipt:

“Takk for din e-post. Jeg har mottatt informasjonen og vil gi deg et grundig svar innen fredag.” (Thank you for your email. I have received the information and will provide you with a thorough response by Friday.)

1.4 Egalitarian Approach: Reflecting Norway’s Social Values

Norway’s commitment to social equality is deeply ingrained in its business culture. In your emails, this translates to a balance between professionalism and approachability:

“Hei Olav,

Takk for ditt innspill i gårsdagens møte. Jeg setter pris på din direkte tilbakemelding og ser frem til å implementere endringene vi diskuterte.” (Hi Olav,

Thank you for your input in yesterday’s meeting. I appreciate your direct feedback and look forward to implementing the changes we discussed.)

2. Structure of a Professional Norwegian Business Email

A well-structured email enhances readability and demonstrates your professionalism. Let’s break down each component:

2.1 Subject Line (Emne)

Keep it concise and informative: “Møteforespørsel: Prosjektgjennomgang 15. mai” (Meeting Request: Project Review May 15)

2.2 Greeting (Hilsen)

Choose an appropriate greeting based on your relationship with the recipient:

• “Hei [Name]” (Hello [Name]) – Most common and versatile
• “Kjære [Name]” (Dear [Name]) – More formal
• “God dag” (Good day) – Very formal, less common

2.3 Opening Line (Åpningslinje)

Start with a brief, contextual opening: “Jeg håper denne e-posten finner deg vel.” (I hope this email finds you well.)

“Takk for din e-post datert [date].” (Thank you for your email dated [date].)

“Jeg skriver angående vårt møte forrige uke.” (I’m writing regarding our meeting last week.)

2.4 Main Content (Hovedinnhold)

Present your information or request clearly and concisely. Use short paragraphs and bullet points for clarity:

“Som avtalt, her er en oppsummering av våre neste skritt:

• Ferdigstille prosjektplanen innen 20. mai
• Sette opp et teamsmøte for gjennomgang 25. mai
• Sende inn budsjettet for godkjenning innen 1. juni

Vennligst gi meg beskjed hvis du har noen spørsmål eller innvendinger til denne tidslinjen.”

(As agreed, here is a summary of our next steps:

• Finalize the project plan by May 20
• Set up a team meeting for review on May 25
• Submit the budget for approval by June 1

Please let me know if you have any questions or objections to this timeline.)

2.5 Closing Remarks (Avsluttende bemerkninger)

Sum up any action items or express appreciation: “Jeg ser frem til dine tilbakemeldinger og vårt videre samarbeid.” (I look forward to your feedback and our continued collaboration.)

“Takk for din tid og oppmerksomhet i denne saken.” (Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.)

2.6 Sign-off (Avslutningshilsen)

Choose an appropriate sign-off:

• “Med vennlig hilsen” (Kind regards) – Most common and versatile
• “Beste hilsener” (Best regards) – Slightly less formal
• “Vennlig hilsen” (Friendly regards) – A good balance between formal and friendly
• “Mvh” – Abbreviation of “Med vennlig hilsen,” used in less formal situations

3. Essential Norwegian Business Email Phrases

Incorporating these phrases can enhance the professionalism of your emails:

• “I henhold til vår samtale…” (As per our conversation…)
• “Jeg bekrefter herved…” (I hereby confirm…)
• “Vennligst finn vedlagt…” (Please find attached…)
• “Som avtalt, sender jeg…” (As agreed, I am sending…)
• “Jeg ville sette pris på om du kunne…” (I would appreciate if you could…)
• “La meg vite hvis du trenger ytterligere informasjon.” (Let me know if you need any further information.)
• “Jeg beklager forsinkelsen.” (I apologize for the delay.)
• “Takk for din tålmodighet.” (Thank you for your patience.)

4. Formal vs. Informal Language in Norwegian Business Emails

Understanding when to use formal or informal language is crucial in Norwegian business communication.

4.1 Formal Language

Use formal language in these situations:

• Initial contact with a new business partner
• Communication with high-level executives or government officials
• Official documents or legal correspondence

Example of formal language: “Kjære Direktør Hansen,

Jeg skriver til Dem angående vårt kommende samarbeid. Vedlagt finner De prosjektforslaget for Deres gjennomgang. Jeg ville sette stor pris på Deres tilbakemelding innen neste fredag.

Med vennlig hilsen, [Your Name]”

(Dear Director Hansen,

I am writing to you regarding our upcoming collaboration. Attached you will find the project proposal for your review. I would greatly appreciate your feedback by next Friday.

Kind regards, [Your Name])

4.2 Informal Language

Informal language is appropriate in these contexts:

• Regular communication with established business contacts
• Internal emails within your company
• Correspondence with peers or colleagues you know well

Example of informal language: “Hei Mari,

Takk for praten i går. Her er ideene vi diskuterte. Kan du ta en titt og gi meg en tilbakemelding når du har sjansen?

Mvh, [Your Name]”

(Hi Mari,

Thanks for the chat yesterday. Here are the ideas we discussed. Can you take a look and give me feedback when you have a chance?

Best regards, [Your Name])

5. Common Phrases and Their Usage

Let’s explore some common phrases you’ll encounter in Norwegian business emails and how to use them effectively:

5.1 Opening Phrases

• “Håper alt står bra til med deg.” (Hope all is well with you.)
• “Takk for sist.” (Thanks for last time. – Used when you’ve recently met or spoken with the person)
• “Jeg viser til vår tidligere korrespondanse angående…” (I refer to our previous correspondence regarding…)

5.2 Making Requests

• “Kunne du vennligst sende meg…” (Could you please send me…)
• “Jeg ville sette pris på om du kunne…” (I would appreciate if you could…)
• “Er det mulig å få…” (Is it possible to get…)

5.3 Providing Information

• “Jeg vil gjerne informere deg om at…” (I would like to inform you that…)
• “Som avtalt, her er…” (As agreed, here is…)
• “Vedlagt finner du…” (Attached you will find…)

5.4 Expressing Gratitude

• “Tusen takk for din hjelp.” (Thank you very much for your help.)
• “Jeg setter stor pris på din innsats.” (I greatly appreciate your effort.)
• “Takk for rask tilbakemelding.” (Thank you for your prompt response.)

5.5 Closing Phrases

• “Jeg ser frem til å høre fra deg.” (I look forward to hearing from you.)
• “Ta gjerne kontakt hvis du har spørsmål.” (Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.)
• “Ha en fin dag videre.” (Have a nice day.)

6. Navigating Challenging Situations

Even seasoned professionals sometimes face tricky situations in email communication. Here’s how to handle some common challenges in Norwegian:

6.1 Apologizing for a Mistake

“Jeg beklager feilen i vår siste leveranse. Vi jobber med å rette opp situasjonen og vil sende en korrigert versjon innen slutten av dagen.”

(I apologize for the error in our last delivery. We are working to rectify the situation and will send a corrected version by the end of the day.)

6.2 Declining a Request Politely

“Takk for din forespørsel. Dessverre har vi ikke mulighet til å imøtekomme ditt ønske på nåværende tidspunkt. Vi setter pris på din forståelse.”

(Thank you for your request. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate your wish at this time. We appreciate your understanding.)

6.3 Following Up on an Unanswered Email

“Jeg følger opp min e-post fra forrige uke angående prosjektforslaget. Har du hatt mulighet til å se på det? Jeg er tilgjengelig for en diskusjon hvis du har noen spørsmål.”

(I’m following up on my email from last week regarding the project proposal. Have you had a chance to look at it? I’m available for a discussion if you have any questions.)

6.4 Requesting an Extension

“Grunnet uforutsette omstendigheter ber jeg om en utsettelse av leveringsfristen til neste fredag. Jeg forsikrer deg om at dette ikke vil påvirke prosjektets overordnede tidsplan.”

(Due to unforeseen circumstances, I’m requesting an extension of the delivery deadline until next Friday. I assure you that this will not affect the project’s overall timeline.)

7. Tips for Improving Your Written Norwegian

Enhancing your written Norwegian skills can significantly improve your business communication. Here are some tips:

1. Read Norwegian Business Publications: Expose yourself to business Norwegian by reading newspapers like “Dagens Næringsliv” or “E24”.
2. Practice Regularly: Set aside time each day to write in Norwegian, even if it’s just a short email or journal entry.
3. Use Language Learning Apps: Supplement your learning with apps like Duolingo or Babbel, focusing on business-related vocabulary.
4. Seek Feedback: If possible, have a native Norwegian speaker review your writings and provide feedback.
5. Learn Idiomatic Expressions: Familiarize yourself with common Norwegian idioms used in business contexts.
6. Take a Course: Consider enrolling in a business Norwegian course at NLS Norwegian Language School in Oslo for personalized instruction and practice. Our 1-to-1 private classes offer tailored guidance to help you master business Norwegian quickly and effectively. Learn more and register here: https://nlsnorwegian.no/private-classes-1-to-1-learn-norwegian/

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Being aware of common pitfalls can help you avoid them in your own writing. Here are some mistakes frequently made by non-native Norwegian speakers:

1. Incorrect Use of Definite Articles: Incorrect: “Jeg sender rapport.” Correct: “Jeg sender rapporten.” (I’m sending the report.)
2. Word Order in Subordinate Clauses: Incorrect: “Jeg vet at han kommer ikke i morgen.” Correct: “Jeg vet at han ikke kommer i morgen.” (I know that he is not coming tomorrow.)
3. Overuse of Passive Voice: Avoid: “Det blir sendt en e-post til deg.” Prefer: “Jeg sender deg en e-post.” (I will send you an email.)
4. Misuse of False Friends: Be cautious of words that look similar to English but have different meanings in Norwegian. For example, “eventual” in English does not mean the same as “eventuell” in Norwegian, which means “possible” or “potential.”
5. Incorrect Pronoun Usage: Incorrect: “Kan du sende det til jeg?” Correct: “Kan du sende det til meg?” (Can you send it to me?)

9. The Role of Cultural Understanding in Business Communication

Effective business communication in Norwegian goes beyond just language proficiency. It requires a deep understanding of Norwegian cultural norms and business practices. Here are some key cultural aspects to keep in mind:

9.1 Work-Life Balance

Norwegians highly value their work-life balance. This might reflect in their email communication, especially outside of regular business hours. Avoid sending emails late in the evening or on weekends unless it’s truly urgent.

9.2 Consensus-Based Decision Making

Norwegian business culture often emphasizes consensus in decision-making. Your emails might need to reflect this by soliciting opinions or feedback from all relevant parties.

9.3 Modesty and Understatement

Norwegians generally prefer modesty over boasting. In your emails, try to present achievements or proposals in a factual, understated manner rather than with excessive self-promotion.