Doing Business in Denmark

Denmark has an open and robust economy driven by technology and innovation. This, along with world-class infrastructure, a highly educated workforce and a standard of living among the highest in the world, means that doing business in Denmark is an attractive prospect. 

As the southernmost Scandinavian country, Denmark occupies a strategic position as a gateway into the rest of the region. As such, many international corporations have regional offices in Denmark. The country is also home to several internationally recognised Danish companies such as Maersk, LEGO and Carlsberg.

Denmark is an egalitarian society, which is evident in its business culture. The country has one of the world's lowest levels of income inequality, gender equality is promoted, and the welfare of the team is seen as more important than the individual.

Hierarchy

Most Danish businesses are characterised by a relatively flat structure, and relations between different levels within an organisation are usually informal. This means that decision lines are sometimes less obvious. 

Great importance is placed on discussion and reaching consensus; team members are expected to make a positive contribution to discussions and decisions. In line with this, Danes generally avoid conflict and confrontation. It’s best to remain even-tempered and not display anger in meetings or public settings.

Danes tend to be open-minded and tolerant. Family is at the heart of Danish social structures and this extends to the working environment; Denmark has generous allowances for both maternity and paternity leave, and working hours are often flexible to fit in with family time.

Personal relationships

Danes prefer to get down to business immediately, leaving little time for small talk in meetings. Punctuality is essential if expats are to make a good impression. Danes are typically hard-working and expect employees to be motivated and committed to doing their best. Danes generally do not mix business with pleasure, so work and personal relationships are kept strictly separate.

Dos and don’ts of business in Denmark

• Do be punctual for meetings
• Don't be boastful of personal achievements; Danes are reserved and modest people who believe in the team rather than the individual
• Do expect equality in the workplace and a relatively flat management structure
• Don't raise your voice and always remain respectful of colleagues in meetings; confrontation should be avoided at all costs