Study Trip to Stockholm in November

As part of our course "Company internationalization" we were able to go on a study trip to Stockholm.

Day One: Monday was a day of deep insight as we visited the Finnish Embassy and the Finnish-Swedish Chamber of Commerce. Representatives from these institutions generously shared the intricacies of their daily tasks, which ranged from event planning and guest preparation to aiding companies in their expansion efforts, both in Sweden and back in Finland.

In the afternoon, our exploration took us to OMT AB. The company offers solutions within the engineering industry in the form of consultancy services, technical equipment and property development. Pontus Bernhardsson, the Head of Electrical & Control Lead Engineering, welcomed us warmly. What stood out was the company's unique hiring process – one couldn't simply submit an application. Networking and personal connections were paramount, reflecting a close-knit community within OMT AB. The emphasis on company culture, evident in weekly consultant meetings and engaging after-work programmes, left a lasting impression and made it clear that this was a workplace where one really wanted to contribute.

Day Two

Tuesday offered a balance of free time and a visit to Sambla Group, a notable player in the financial technology sector. Sambla's role as a platform for comparing loan brokers, working with over 100 companies and banks, demonstrated the company's significant influence. A meeting with Corinne Kronqvist, a CRM specialist and Novia alumna, highlighted the company's youthful spirit and commitment to continuous improvement.

Sambla's expansion plans, including a new office in Finland, underlined its rapid growth. The company's lively culture, characterised by frequent after-work events and departmental dinners, reflected its commitment to fostering a supportive and enjoyable working environment.

As we sailed back to Turku on Tuesday evening and arrived in Vaasa on Wednesday, the study trip had left an indelible mark on our understanding of Swedish business culture. Stockholm, with its blend of traditional business values and modern approaches, demonstrated the importance of personal connections, vibrant company cultures and innovation to business success.

Our trip didn’t just broaden our perspectives; it also sparked a newfound admiration for the complexity shaping Stockholm’s business scene. From diplomatic connections to groundbreaking startups, the Swedish capital revealed itself as a vibrant tapestry of unexplored possibilities. As German exchange students, this journey hasn't merely enriched our understanding of global business; it's inspired us to weave these newfound insights into our future endeavors. This nuanced comprehension gained will undoubtedly mold our business approach, fostering an openness to diverse viewpoints and innovative strategies as we strive for success on an international scale.

By Caroline Albrecht, Natalie Bircheneder and Edwina Gronbach