Louisa Dahlin Friberg’s Post

New to Denmark?🇩🇰 Here are some tips to help you settle in like a Pro!✨ Starting a new chapter in Denmark can be exciting, but it also comes with its challenges. At The International Denmark, we’re here to help you thrive! Here are some insider tips to help you feel at home: ✍️ Learn the Local Traditions – Embrace Danish customs and culture to make genuine connections. 🗨️ Pick Up Some Danish – Although many speak English, learning Danish will make life easier and help you integrate faster. 🧑🤝🧑 Build Your Network – Whether at work or in social settings, connecting with others is key to thriving here. ✨ Stay Positive – The journey takes time. Be patient, celebrate small wins, and keep pushing forward. 💫 Join Local Communities – Engage in clubs or groups that match your interests. It’s a great way to meet people and feel part of the community. 💡 Want more insights? Check out our article, “Blending into Danish Culture – The Unwritten Rules” by Natália Šepitková on our website! Here’s a sneak peek at some unwritten rules: ✨ Schedule events weeks in advance, as Danes plan meticulously around "weeks." ✨ Networking happens over coffee, focusing on genuine connections. ✨ First-name basis is common, and Danes are direct, with minimal polite gestures. ✨ Janteloven - Emphasizes modesty and humbleness, equality is key here! Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/dGacXNSc #NewInDenmark #LifeInDenmark #ExpatsInDenmark #InternationalDenmark #DanishCulture #IntegrationJourney

It has been five years since I moved to Denmark! It was never my plan to live here, but it was ultimately my decision to stay. I wanted to write a post about my experience here, and as real life is rarely black and white, so here are the top things I love or could change for the better: 😍 Flat hierarchies - loving it! It's refreshing to be able to walk into my boss' office and have direct contact with them, especially since they might sit in the open office. ❤️ Trust - which means there is much less paperwork than I was used to. 🙃 Danish language - I am a fan! Although it's relatively easy to learn, pronunciation can be challenging. The public courses are focused on passing the test rather than truly learning the language, so I've found that progress comes with using Danish at work and making a job change. I learnt to embrace all those mistakes I make on the way. 💡 Work-life balance - at times, I worked in Denmark way more than I should have, but still much less than in the UK. I also learnt to close my laptop and say "pyt med det" (eng. never mind) much more often than before. Maybe I am just growing up? 😅 🌈 Equality, diversity and inclusion agenda - if you are used to UK or US levels of EDI/DEI discussions, you will be disappointed with what is happening in Denmark. Discussion is about "if" we have a problem (yes, we do), not about what to do with it. 👷♀️ Health & safety in the construction industry - it is way behind what I experienced in the UK and, despite great efforts of some people and organisations, the whole industry is lagging way behind. Thank you, Denmark, for these years - here’s to many more to come. I'm looking forward to building a few more Copenhagen Metro stations, enjoying safe cycling to work, and savouring more of my favourite pastries 😋

Why is cultural preparation for Germany so important? Same same, but different. We are all human—we eat, work, celebrate 🎉, take care of our children 👶, build relationships and networks 🤝—but how we do these things varies greatly from culture to culture! Here’s the catch: Most cultures around the world are collective, including those in Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East 🌍, while Germany is considered highly individualistic. What are the 2 biggest differences? 👉🏼I vs. We: In Germany, the focus is clearly on independence and self-realization. “I” am autonomous, unique, and responsible for my own actions. In collectivist cultures, identity is shaped by belonging to the group (family, community). The well-being of the group comes before personal interests. 👉🏼Communication: In Germany, communication is direct. Yes means yes, and no means no. There’s not much room in between. It’s a bit like chopping down a tree 🌳—it’s not always pretty, sometimes a bit blunt, but it gets the job done. In collectivist cultures, communication is more nuanced. It’s like a ballet 💃. Not only the steps matter, but also the glances, gestures—everything carries meaning, and it’s expected that the other person can interpret it. 💡These differences don’t just create huge potential for misunderstandings and they can also act as barriers to success—what’s known as the “glass ceiling.” Let’s break through it together! 💪 Our training, The Hidden Rules of German Culture, is almost ready, and we’re excited to offer it to you soon. Tanya Keni And not only that—our mentoring community with all the essential information about living in Germany is also launching soon! 🚀 Feel free to reach out if you want to learn more! https://lnkd.in/eAGTWra4 #CulturalAwareness #InterculturalTraining #GermanCulture

🇩🇰 Embracing a Culture of Knowledge Sharing in Denmark! 🌍 One of the most inspiring aspects of working in Denmark has been experiencing a culture where sharing knowledge is the norm, not the exception. 💡 Here, people are genuinely open to teaching and guiding you, without holding back or treating their expertise as “intellectual property” to safeguard job security. 🚀 In some cultures, knowledge is guarded, sometimes out of a desire for self-preservation. But in Denmark, the mindset is collaborative and empowering. This openness builds trust, creates bonds, and inspires gratitude. 🙏 I find myself constantly thinking: How can I repay them? How can I pay it forward? 🤝 Thank you, Denmark, for reminding me that knowledge grows when it’s shared. Let’s all keep paying it forward! 💪🌱 #KnowledgeSharing #Denmark #Gratitude #WorkplaceCulture

Who’s responsible for ensuring internationals thrive and settle in Denmark? This question often arises when I talk to organizations about my work helping internationals thrive in their new professional and social settings. 💥 Is it an individual journey for expats to navigate alone? 💥 Is it the responsibility of the welcoming municipality, school, or sports club? 💥 Is it up to the hiring company? Research shows that thriving depends on a felt sense of safety, belonging, and meaning, created through personal resilience and strong relationships at work and home. Denmark needs international talent for both public and private sectors, and integrating these talents effectively requires collaboration to enhance intercultural competencies. I believe in equipping BOTH internationals AND Danes to navigate cultural differences with emotional and cultural intelligence and literacy. I also believe it's a joint responsibility shared by individuals, society, and hiring organizations. We know that emotional struggles over longer periods of time increase stress, meaninglessness and illness. Leading internationals to leave (they also leave for other reasons - sure - but if they don't thrive there's less reason to stay). It's not time to battle over who's responsible. It's time to create the foundation for intercultural competencies in individuals, society, and organizations. This ensures people thrive, stay healthy (mentally and physically), and enjoy living in Denmark so much that they'll endure the winters and Danish reservedness—and stay 🤗 What are your thoughts on supporting international talent? TL;DR: Thriving as an international requires a collaborative effort involving personal resilience and strong relationships. Equipping both internationals and locals with cultural intelligence is key. 📸 : me and my beloved What Are You Doing In Denmark cup #internationaltalent #mentalresilience #expathero 🌏 🌏 🌏 🌏 🌏 🌏 🌏 🌏 If this post inspired you make sure to like, comment and share 💯 Hit the 🔔 to get notified when I share thoughts and news about my work and news in Expat Hero With gratitude, Nanna Hauch

🌍 Celebrating International Men’s Day: A Tribute to Growth, Kindness, and Strength 💙 Today, we honour men from all walks of life – celebrating their journeys, achievements, and resilience. International Men’s Day is not just about recognition; it’s a call to action to embrace values that foster a better world: 💡 Empathy: The courage to listen, understand, and support others. 💪 Strength: Not just physical, but emotional strength – the ability to be vulnerable, seek help, and grow. 🤝 Mentorship: Guiding the next generation to redefine success and lead with integrity. 🌟 Equality: Building bridges, advocating for fairness, and standing alongside others in unity. To all the fathers, brothers, friends, colleagues, and mentors out there – thank you for inspiring us with your authenticity and humanity. Let’s continue to challenge stereotypes, prioritise well-being, and create a world where men are celebrated for their contributions, not confined by expectations. Happy International Men’s Day! Let’s grow together.

DEI+B "Signing of Danish Diversity Charter" by MAN Energy Solutions 🚢 There are days, when you exactly know, where you have been 👌 The video below provides you with the visual impressions from that day. Another step towards an inclusive workplace 🍀 Come and check us out, online or at one of our future events #recruitment #GreenImpact #CareerOpportunity #MANEnergySolutions #futurefuels #decarbonization #greenfuels #denmarkjob #denmark #maritimeindustry #primeserv #Futuremakers #MovingBigThingsToZero #engineering #volkswagengroup

⁉️Saxons? Saxony? Saxony-Anhalt? ⁉️ Have you ever heard about Saxony-Anhalt in Germany? I was born and raised in this German state, also known as the Bundesland Saxony-Anhalt, and most of my family still lives there. Saxony-Anhalt is situated in the very center of Germany. Unlike most other Bundesländer, it doesn't border neighboring European countries or a sea. It has fewer inhabitants than many other Bundesländer and boasts a variety of dialects, such as Anhaltisch and Magdeburger Platt. It's a common misconception that people from Saxony-Anhalt speak Upper Saxon German (Sächsisch). People from Saxony-Anhalt might appear quite honest and blunt, but also stubborn and narrow-minded. However, once you take the time to get to know them (and once they allow you to), you'll find them to be very friendly, hospitable, and party-loving. Saxony-Anhalt is part of the New Bundesländer, meaning it was part of the former communist East Germany (GDR) until 1990. The New Bundesländer are often underrepresented in advertisements about places to visit in Germany, despite their rich culture and beautiful nature. Although Germany is a small country compared to others, it has many differences and unique aspects, such as food and culture. Make sure to include a trip to one of the East German gems on your next visit to Germany. 💡Have you ever been to the New Bundesländer? —————————————————————— ✅ Do you operate globally? Are you hosting international teams? ✅ As a certified intercultural trainer, I can help you onboard new team members faster and more smoothly. With personalized training, I can improve your team's efficiency and reduce internal friction in just one morning. This will boost motivation and drive your company's success. ✅ Don't miss out on global opportunities—contact me today for more information. #interculturaltraining #interculturalcompetence #interculturalcommunication #Germany #expatlife

Celebrating International Men’s Day I'm proud to support the International Men’s Day celebrations at British Gas Business, championed by the Better Together D&I group. I was asked to write an article for the occasion. I’ve been with Centrica for just over a month as a Change Delivery Manager, joining through the Athlete’s Pathway. My role focuses on implementing regulatory change within BGB, and I particularly enjoy collaborating with teams, improving processes, and working on sustainable energy projects that create meaningful impacts. Before joining Centrica, I had the privilege of competing in six Paralympic Games, which taught me resilience, leadership, and the power of teamwork—values I continue to bring into my work and life. What does International Men’s Day mean to me? For me, it’s a time to reflect on the challenges men face today, such as societal pressures around masculinity and mental health. It’s also about celebrating the strength found in vulnerability, resilience, and the ability to lift others up. Support from friends and family has been key to navigating life’s challenges, reminding me that opening up isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. This day is a reminder to honour diverse expressions of masculinity and the importance of being empathetic, supportive, and authentic. Top 3 Mental Health Tips Reflect Daily: Take 5 minutes for journaling or deep breathing to check in with yourself. Build a Support Network: Stay connected with friends or mentors—you’re never alone. Prioritise Physical Health: Exercise, good sleep, and balanced nutrition are foundational to well-being. Let’s celebrate the positive contributions men bring while continuing to champion mental health and inclusion for all. #InternationalMensDay #BetterTogether #MentalHealthMatters #Leadership #Resilience

Last night... in the warm light of Kalundborg's Kino Den Blå Engel I had the pleasure of speaking to a room of internationals and Danes sharing insights on navigating culture shock and fostering well-being in new surroundings. With Kalundborg Kommune experiencing unprecedented growth — welcoming over a thousand new international residents this year alone — it’s clear that our cross-cultural journeys impact not only us as expats, but the communities we join. This kind of influx can create its own “collective culture shock,” affecting both new residents and the local community. As international talent is increasingly attracted to Denmark, it’s never been more important to strengthen our cultural intelligence and bridge cultural gaps. When we approach international transitions with an understanding of how culture shock impacts us physiologically, psychologically, and socially, we can respond with greater empathy and curiosity. Recognizing the triad of bio-psycho-social effects — from physical stress responses to emotional turbulence and relational shifts — equips us to navigate and support these changes with awareness. That's first step to create a space where everyone can thrive — empowered & connected. In the wake of yesterday’s U.S. election, this work feels more essential than ever. Let's keep focusing on nurturing cross-cultural understanding and well-being in our growing, diverse communities around Denmark, and around the world as an alternative to polarization. #crossculturalcollaboration #culturalintelligence #emotionalintelligence #expathero #emotionalagility