Find your next job in Denmark - The most important things to know

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive guide for international professionals seeking jobs in Denmark. Career coach Diana Lunosm covers practical aspects like crafting an effective CV, writing a compelling cover letter, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, and navigating key job portals. She also highlights Danish workplace culture, emphasizing flat hierarchies, teamwork, humility, punctuality, proactivity, and work-life balance. Strategic tips include networking, following up on applications, customizing applications for each company, and preparing for the 'Why Denmark?' question. The video combines practical advice, cultural insights, and actionable strategies to help job seekers successfully navigate Denmark's professional landscape.

Takeaways

• 📄 CVs in Denmark should be 2–3 pages, results-oriented, tailored to the specific role, and include a 5–8 line profile at the top.
• ✉️ Cover letters are still widely used; they should focus on the value you bring, be concise (max 1 page), and use clear headings.
• 💼 LinkedIn is crucial: optimize with relevant keywords, be active, connect with people, and engage to improve visibility.
• 🌐 Use Denmark’s main job portals: LinkedIn, Job Index, The Hub.io (tech-focused), Work in Denmark, and Jobnet.dk for government listings.
• 📝 Ensure all administrative requirements are met, including work permits, CPR number, and NEI authentication.
• 🤝 Danish workplace culture values flat hierarchies, first-name basis communication, trust, and teamwork over individual self-promotion.
• ⏰ Punctuality is essential in Denmark; being late is often seen as disrespectful and unprofessional.
• ⚖️ Work-life balance is highly valued; employees are given flexibility and autonomy in managing their time and responsibilities.
• 📣 Be proactive in meetings and tasks, but avoid being pushy; show initiative and communicate when tasks are completed.
• 🔗 Networking is critical for job success; approach it with curiosity, follow up consistently, and build meaningful professional connections.
• 🎯 Tailor each application to the specific company and role, and be prepared to answer why you want to work in Denmark.
• 📚 Utilize available resources such as YouTube videos, careerconsultant.dk, LinkedIn groups, and career consultants to support your job search.

Q & A

What is the recommended length for a CV in Denmark?

A CV in Denmark should be two to three pages long, providing enough detail while remaining concise for quick review.

How should achievements be presented in a Danish CV?

Achievements should focus on actual results and how they can benefit the company, rather than just listing tasks or skills.

What is the purpose of the profile text at the top of a CV?

The profile text, 5–8 lines long, summarizes your key strengths and career focus, giving recruiters a quick overview of who you are and what you bring.

What makes a strong cover letter in Denmark?

A strong cover letter emphasizes the value you bring to the company, is tailored for each role, is readable with headings, and is no longer than one page.

Why is LinkedIn particularly important for job seekers in Denmark?

LinkedIn is essential because it acts as both a networking tool and a search engine, helping recruiters find candidates through keywords, activity, and engagement.

Which job portals are most useful for finding jobs in Denmark?

The most useful portals are LinkedIn, Job Index (largest portal, covering ~80% of jobs), Hub.io (mainly tech jobs), Work in Denmark, and Jobnet.dk (government site).

What cultural aspects of Danish workplaces should international job seekers be aware of?

Danish workplaces have a flat structure, use first names regardless of hierarchy, value teamwork and collaboration, emphasize trust, and expect humility over self-promotion.

How important is timeliness in Denmark, and why?

Timeliness is very important; being late is considered disrespectful because it wastes others’ time. Meetings start on schedule regardless of attendance.

What role does networking play in finding jobs in Denmark?

Networking is crucial, as many jobs are filled through connections before being posted publicly. Networking should focus on curiosity and relationship-building rather than directly asking for jobs.

How should job seekers follow up after applications or networking meetings?

Follow-ups should include thank-you messages, additional questions, or updates, helping you stay top-of-mind and show professionalism.

What is expected from employees regarding proactivity in Denmark?

Employees are expected to speak up in meetings, take initiative when tasks are complete, and proactively ask what to do next without being pushy.

Why is work-life balance emphasized in Denmark?

Work-life balance is valued because it allows professionals flexibility to manage personal commitments, contributing to overall satisfaction and productivity at work.

How should international job seekers explain their motivation to work in Denmark?

Job seekers should prepare a clear explanation for why they want to work in Denmark, including personal, professional, or cultural reasons, especially if they are not currently residing in the country.