Business Customs

Danish business people may appear somewhat formal at first, but are likely to show a more informal side of themselves. The dress code sometimes may seem a little too relaxed to an American businessperson; however, they are likely to get down to business right away and are generally conservative and efficient in their approach to business meetings. Handshakes (with men and women) are the accepted form of greeting. Danes shake hands both for greetings upon arrival and departure from a meeting. Unlike in the United States, men do not stand when a woman enters or leaves a room. Virtually all Danish businesspeople 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. A businessperson is seldom invited for dinner at the home of a business acquaintance.

Business Appointments

When doing business in Denmark, it is important to remember that advance appointments are required, and punctuality is a must; it is considered rude to be late. Danes work shorter hours than Americans. The standard work week is 37 hours. Mandatory vacation is five weeks plus up to five more days per year plus local holidays. At least three weeks are taken during the summer. School summer vacation is from about June 20th to about August 8th, and generally, business is slow in that period as many executives are out of the office. Some companies are even completely closed. It is not advisable to schedule business meetings or other business activities in Denmark from late June to early August, from December 20th – January 5th, or during the week of Easter. Danes treasure their leisure time, most of which is spent with their families. Businesspersons should not routinely expect to meet with their Danish counterparts after 4:00pm on weekdays. On Fridays, many Danes leave early, generally around 3:00pm. Do not plan meetings for Saturdays, Sundays, or on national holidays (see below). Not all Danes appreciate breakfast meetings, which should be scheduled only with due consideration to the situation.