Reference & Research Book News, February 2005
Lewis attributes Finnish achievements in the last century to the culture rather than to political or business prowess.

Book Description
Why is Finland number one in Global Competitiveness? Why is Finland number one in mobile phones? Why is Finland regularly voted as the least corrupt country in the world? How did Finland become the world leader in managing water resources? Why are Finns regarded as the ideal "peacekeepers"? Why are Finns the world's biggest consumers of coffee and alcohol? Why are Finns the most silent people in Europe? Why is the future Finnish? Finland, Cultural Lone Wolf is the story of an accomplished nation and her extraordinary people. Pursuing a "Lone Wolf" policy, Finland raised itself from a struggling, war-battered state in 1945 to one of the most developed countries in the world. Finland, blending the individualism of the West with cultural characteristics of the East, has retained its reputation as a stand-alone nation. These remarkable Finns speak a language unique in its origins and have kept their cultural identity intact despite the influences of powerful neighbors, Sweden and Russia. As business partners Finns are unsurpassed in leadership qualities yet inspire the successful team building that created the largest company in Europe. The exponential rise of Nokia from tire and timbers to leading the world's telecommunication industry is indicative of the Finns and their characteristic business style. Uniquely qualified to write about Finland, best-selling author Richard Lewis traces the fascinating Finnish origins, as well as her history and geography. He compares communication styles among the Finns and other cultures, including Asians, Americans and Europeans, and he explores the most dominant cultural values that define the Finns. His extensive experience with Finnish business allows him keen insight on leadership style, negotiation strategies and the uniquely Finnish suomi kuva (Finland image). And Lewis shines when describing the Finnish humor, complete with hilarious jokes and stories.

About the Author
RICHARD D. LEWIS was knighted in 1997 by President Ahtisaari of Finland for his services to the country spanning 50 years. He is chairman of Richard Lewis Communications, an international institute for cross-cultural and language training with offices in more than a dozen countries. Richard Lewis lectures and consults worldwide withclients that include Mercedes-Benz, Nokia, Rolls Royce, Volvo, Deutsche Bank and Unilever. Among his many books are When Cultures Collide and The Cultural Imperative.

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