People often think these two words are interchangeable but we disagree, and so does the dictionary. Here’s how it defines the two words:

seminar small class at university for discussion and research: (US) conference of specialists; short intensive course of study

seminar/y 1. place of education or development 2. training college for priest, rabbis etc.

symposium 1. drinking-party, esp. of ancient Greeks with conversation etc. after banquet 2. philosophical or other friendly discussion: set of contributions on one subject from various authors and points of view at meeting or in magazines etc

We believe the second description given for a symposium is much more in line with the philosophy behind the Swedish management style generally, and Swedish Style New Zealand particularly. Essentially, seminars are about teaching – symposia are about learning.

As the letter from the Ambassador confirms, Swedish Style New Zealand is seen as a bridge between New Zealand and Sweden, and is as much about celebrating the similarities between our two countries as about our differences. And again as the Ambassador says, we want this to happen in “a fun, friendly and informal environment.”

As they say, “When teaching fails, try learning!”

Which is what Swedish Style is all about.