In Denmark, a significant number of jobs are filled through networks rather than public job postings. For internationals, this can feel daunting – especially in a country where people often have established social circles from childhood. This guide shows you how to build professional connections effectively.
Why networking matters in Denmark
The hidden job market is real in Denmark:
- Many positions are filled before being advertised
- Referrals carry significant weight with employers
- Danes often hire people they know or have heard about
- Networking is how you learn about company cultures and opportunities
Key point: Networking is not about using people – it is about building genuine relationships that benefit both parties over time.
Understanding Danish networking culture
Networking in Denmark works differently than in some cultures:
Danes are reserved at first
This is not unfriendliness – it is cultural. Danes warm up over time, especially when there is a shared context (work, hobbies, events).
Authenticity matters
Pushy or transactional networking does not work well. Danes prefer genuine conversations and gradual relationship building.
Mutual value
Think about what you can offer, not just what you need. Share knowledge, make introductions, help others.
Where to network
Professional events
- Industry meetups (check Meetup.com, Eventbrite)
- Professional associations in your field
- Conferences and seminars
- Chamber of commerce events
International communities
- International House events
- Expat networking groups
- Facebook groups for internationals in Denmark
- Newbie clubs for specific nationalities
Hobby and interest groups
- Sports clubs and fitness classes
- Language exchange meetups
- Volunteer organisations
- Alumni networks
Online networking
- LinkedIn (very active in Denmark)
- Professional Facebook groups
- Industry-specific forums
- Twitter/X for certain industries
How to approach networking events
Before the event
- Research who will be there if possible
- Prepare a brief introduction about yourself
- Set realistic goals (meet 3-5 people, not everyone)
At the event
- Arrive on time – Danes value punctuality
- Start with small groups or people standing alone
- Ask questions and listen more than you talk
- Do not pitch yourself immediately – have a conversation first
After the event
- Connect on LinkedIn within a day or two
- Send a personal message referencing your conversation
- Suggest a follow-up coffee if appropriate
The coffee meeting
Informational interviews over coffee are common in Denmark. Here is how to approach them:
Asking for a meeting
- Be clear about why you want to meet
- Keep the request brief and specific
- Suggest meeting near their office
- Be flexible with timing
During the meeting
- Be on time (or early)
- Offer to pay for their coffee
- Come prepared with specific questions
- Listen and learn, do not just ask for a job
- Keep to the agreed time (usually 30 minutes)
After the meeting
- Send a thank you message the same day
- Follow up on anything you discussed
- Stay in touch periodically
Building long-term relationships
Networking is not a one-time activity:
- Stay in touch: Occasional messages, sharing relevant articles, congratulating on achievements
- Give before you ask: Help others when you can, without expecting immediate returns
- Be patient: Relationships in Denmark develop slowly but are genuine and lasting
- Follow through: If you say you will do something, do it
Common mistakes to avoid
- Being too aggressive: Pushy networking feels uncomfortable to Danes
- Only networking when you need something: Build relationships before you need them
- Ignoring follow-up: The relationship continues after the first meeting
- Talking only about yourself: Show genuine interest in others
- Giving up too soon: It takes time to build a network in a new country
Try it yourself
This month, take concrete steps to expand your network:
- Find and attend one professional event in your field
- Reach out to two people on LinkedIn for informational meetings
- Join one interest group or community
- Follow up with someone you met previously
Next steps
Your network can help you get interviews, but you still need to succeed in them. In the next guide, we will cover how job interviews work in Denmark – and what Danish employers are looking for.