Alex Ingrim’s journey through the different work cultures of Europe and the U.S. highlights a significant shift in attitudes toward work and personal life. At 36, Ingrim has spent the past 17 years working across various European countries, including France, the UK, Malta, and now Italy. His experiences offer a valuable perspective on how European work environments differ from the American approach, particularly regarding work-life balance and the importance of taking time off.
Ingrim, currently the president and co-founder of Chase Buchanan USA in Florence, Italy, has encountered a striking contrast between the American and European attitudes towards work. Growing up in the U.S., he was accustomed to a culture where career dedication is often viewed as paramount. Ingrim notes that in American social settings, discussions frequently revolve around one’s job or career achievements. “If you go to a party in the U.S., one of the first things people do is ask each other what they do for work,” he explains. This focus on professional identity can be pervasive, extending even into casual social interactions.
However, his experience in Europe revealed a markedly different cultural norm. Ingrim observed that in European countries, work is less likely to be a central topic of conversation at social events. Instead, conversations are more likely to focus on personal interests and leisure activities such as food, vacations, or sports. “I’ve been at parties for three hours, and I don’t know what anybody does for a job,” he says. This reflects a broader European perspective that places less emphasis on work as a defining aspect of one’s identity, prioritizing personal time and interests over career.
One of the most significant changes Ingrim encountered was in the approach to paid time off. European workplaces are known for their generous vacation policies, often providing around 25 vacation days per year in addition to approximately 10 public holidays. This generous allocation of time off is not just a benefit but a cultural expectation. Ingrim points out that European companies encourage employees to use all their vacation days, and leaving days unused can be seen as a negative indicator. “Leaving lots of vacation days unused is not respected or valued,” he says. “You just look like someone who is not taking enough time off.”
In contrast, the American work culture often places a higher value on showing dedication through long hours and minimal time off. This cultural difference can lead to varying attitudes toward work-life balance. Ingrim notes that in Europe, it is less culturally acceptable to prioritize one’s career over family and personal interests. Instead, European work culture supports the idea that taking time off and maintaining a balance between professional and personal life is essential for overall well-being.
Ingrim’s transition to European work culture began with a college study-abroad program in France, where he met his future wife, Louisa. The decision to relocate to Europe to be together was a significant but fulfilling choice. Reflecting on his experiences, Ingrim expresses that living in Italy has brought him greater satisfaction and happiness compared to his time in the U.S. “It was a great choice,” he says, highlighting how the European lifestyle and work culture have positively impacted his life and career.
Overall, Ingrim’s experiences underscore a broader cultural trend where European work environments emphasize the importance of work-life balance, personal time, and family life. For individuals considering a move to Europe or working with European firms, understanding and embracing these cultural differences can lead to a more fulfilling professional and personal experience.