Understanding work culture in Copenhagen
Working environments abroad depend on two main factors: the job sector that you work in and the country's specific working culture. As an expat, it is important for you to understand the ins and outs of workplace etiquette. Here are some tips for understanding Copenhagen's work culture.
The workplace etiquette in Copenhagen
The dress code
Even in Denmark, serious professions like those in the financial sector usually require formal dress. If you work in such a sector, expect to dress accordingly.
Occupations with a uniform like nursing and warehouse jobs will, of course, require you to wear the standard clothing, so you don't have to worry about what to wear. However, you should remember to dress up for the interview to make a great first impression!
For most other jobs, people in Copenhagen dress relatively casual for work. This doesn't mean you can show up in your jogging clothes ' naturally, you will want to look presentable and polished, especially for an interview or your first day on the job.
People in Denmark tend to dress rather conservatively so think along the lines of skirt suits with plain accessories for women and neat slacks with plain-coloured button-up shirts for men (but maybe skip the tie!).
Comfortable shoes in darker colours are the trend. For the ladies, high heels, glitzy accessories, and dramatic makeup rarely make an appearance. Danes have a sophisticated style that mostly consists of neutral palettes and well-fitted clothing.
If you can't resist adding a pop of colour, consider a bright but subtle and stylish accessory like a silk scarf.
Still worried? Here is an in-depth guide to dressing for work in Denmark.
The work culture
Fitting in socially is very important as an expat. Here are some essential things to think about before starting your new job in Copenhagen:
If your name is difficult to pronounce, consider adopting a nickname. If you can find a nickname that relates to a typical Danish name, even better! Danes are generally shy; it might embarrass them to try and pronounce your name to the point where they might avoid you altogether.
Keep your workplace neat and tidy. Most companies in Denmark don't have a full-time cleaning staff that will take away your used coffee cup. Employees are expected to clean after themselves at all times.
Friday breakfasts or coffee breaks at work are a common event in many companies. After-work drinks are not uncommon; if you are invited along, join your colleagues to build your relationship and better understand the Danish culture.
If you previously had a job with a flexible schedule that allowed for social lunches offsite or the odd errand, it is time to make a change. Danish work culture translates to eating lunch with your team and rarely leaving the office during working hours, aside from exceptional circumstances.
Don't schedule late meetings, especially on Fridays! Many Danes start work earlier in order to leave the office by 3 pm so that they can pick up their kids from school or kindergarten.
Relax! Being overly formal and uptight will not help you fit in socially. Try to pick up a few Danish terms and phrases to show your willingness to adapt to the local culture. Ask appropriate questions to get to know your colleagues better and keep friendly topics in mind for lunchtime discussions.
