It is worth paying attention to the following points at business meetings in Finland:

• Men and women are recommended to dress smartly for business meetings.
  An invitation will indicate if the occasion demands a black tie.
• A handshake is the accepted custom at the start and end of a meeting.
• Do not be surprised if the conversation is formal during the first minutes of a meeting with no "small talk".
  The atmosphere will thaw out later on.
• Most business people have a good command of English, and many of them speak German and Russian as well.
• Refrain from drinking alcohol before your Finnish colleague makes a toast.
• Business cards are customarily used.
• It is important to arrive for business meetings on time.
• Do not use first names until the acquaintanceship is on a more personal basis.
• It is recommended that you refrain from arranging business meetings in the months of July and August and close to the times of national holidays.