What Makes Danish Job Interviews Different? Here’s What You Should Know
Informal job interview setting in Denmark
If you’re new to the Danish job market, your first interview might feel a little… unexpected.
Not in a bad way — but definitely different from what you might be used to.
When I first came to Denmark, I quickly noticed that interviews here have their own unique rhythm and culture. Over time, and through many conversations with internationals and hiring managers, these five differences stood out the most. Let me walk you through them.
1. ☕ It’s More Like a Conversation Than an Interview
Forget the stiff formalities. In Denmark, interviews often feel more like a chat over coffee than a formal test. Even when you're speaking with a Senior Manager, the tone tends to be relaxed and down-to-earth.
Don’t mistake this for a lack of professionalism - Danes simply believe that open, honest conversation leads to better collaboration and hiring decisions.
2. 🤝 Cultural Fit Matters — A Lot
Yes, your experience and skills are important. But just as important is how you’d fit into the team and the company culture. Danish companies care deeply about team dynamics, shared values, and how well you’ll get along with others at work.
So be yourself and let your personality shine through, and don’t be afraid to talk about what motivates you beyond your CV.
3. 📋 Expect Real-Life Examples, Not Hypotheticals
Danish employers love competency-based questions. Rather than asking what you would do, they’ll often ask what you have done in a specific situation.
This gives them a better sense of how you think, how you solve problems, and how you handle challenges in real life.
4. 🕓They Care About Work-Life Balance — and So Should You
You might be surprised when interviewers ask how you balance work and life. It’s not a tricky question — they genuinely want to know.
Work-life balance is a cornerstone of Danish work culture. Showing that you value a healthy balance tells them you’re aligned with how things work here.
5. 💬Be Honest. Be Clear. Be You.
One of the first things I noticed (and appreciated) about Danish communication is how direct it is. You’re expected to be honest, clear, and to the point — without fluff or exaggeration.
That doesn’t mean being cold or robotic. It just means being genuine and concise in how you share your experiences and goals.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a job interview in Denmark isn’t just about rehearsing answers — it’s also about understanding the local culture and expectations. If you can lean into the informal tone, show who you are, and speak with honesty, you’ll already be one step closer to making a great impression.
