While I worked in the state, we had one day organized skiing every year and socialized with co-workers (very effective team building, of course). It is also a custom that planning meetings are spent somewhere away from the office with an overnight stay. Every year, the salary is typically adjusted upwards for some percentage – and this happens without you having to lift a finger. As the unions are participating in these negotiations on behalf of all workers, it is considered impolite not to be a union member, though the membership fees are quite high (but you can deduct them from taxes or get super deals on different insurance packages to cover the difference). The union membership will also slightly increase your chances of being kept in a position in case of downsizing (statistical data), which in effect for foreigners means being slightly less vulnerable or exposed to being obsolete – though there are no guarantees. The unions also provide free training in work law and psycho-social support for employees for their delegates.

I would like to comment on the “flexible working hours” mentioned. I was able to participate in office culture both in US and UK. People do not work longer hours there, they just hang there longer, working a notch less stressful days and having more relaxed lunch together. In effect, they spend less time at home or with families.

Happy, well rested people, who spend more time with their families, are more likely to be an engaged and productive workforce.