Blekinge Lans Tidning, the local newspaper in the town where Oziel and I study, has instituted a policy whereby employees should greet each other in the morning. This made me think `only in Sweden.’ The policy even stipulates how to respond in casual office interactions throughout the day—suggesting a simple nod or a smile.

When I started working here the uncomfortableness of me saying hello to blank and unresponsive colleagues used to make me laugh [although, not infront of said colleagues]. I know of others that responded to the loneliness of this situation with tears.

I am now more adapted to the Swedish ways. On my last two trips to Australia I have suffered culture shock, with thoughts of `why is this person talking to me?!’

Now, have you said hello to your colleague? – Radio Sweden [Sveriges Radio (SR)]