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Business culture

The Danes have an informal approach to life both personally and professionally; even so, certain conventions do apply.

 

Danish business people can appear somewhat formal at first, but are likely to quickly show a more informal side, just as the dress code sometimes may seem a bit relaxed to a foreign business person. However, they are likely to get down to business right away and are generally conservative and efficient in their approach to business meetings. Handshakes are the accepted form of greeting. Danes shake hands both for greetings upon arrival and departure from a meeting.

 

Virtually all Danish business people have a good working knowledge of English and interpreters are rarely required. Business gifts are not a normal custom in Denmark. Business entertaining is usually done at lunch, and more rarely at dinner in a restaurant. Even more rarely is it to be invited for dinner at the private home of a business acquaintance. Should it occur; bringing flowers for the hostess would be suitable.

 

Advance appointments are always required and punctuality is a must; it is considered rude to be late. The standard work week is 37 hours, however overtime work is quite common. Danes treasure their leisure time, most of which is spent with the family. Business persons should not routinely expect to meet with their Danish counterparts after 4.00 p.m. on weekdays. On Fridays, many Danes leave early, generally between 2 - 3 p.m.

 

Although a service charge is often included in hotel and restaurant bills, it is customary to pay a little extra if you received a pleasant service. Otherwise, tipping is not common, unless special service was provided.