We spoke to Marin Jóhannudóttir, recruitment consultant at MultiMind, and asked her some questions about recruiting Danes in Sweden.
1. What are the advantages of being Danish, when recruiting Danes?
The advantage of being Danish when recruiting Danes is first and foremost the language. Often the language is of great importance in the positions we recruit Danes for, so the fact that I can speak and write Danish with them, and thus assess their language, I see as a great advantage. Secondly, it is also an advantage that I understand the issues, and concerns they may have; because I have been there myself. I have moved from Denmark to Sweden to work, so I know what kind of cultural, and practical problems the Danes may encounter and I can give advice and support.
2. What are the main differences between the Danish, and Swedish business worlds?
First of all, I think the similarities are greater than the differences. The biggest difference you will experience is in relation to business communication. Danes perceive Swedes as very consensus-oriented, they seek compromises and are focused on getting as many people as possible on board when decisions are made. Danes are more likely to question things and are perhaps less afraid of confrontation. Of course, this is only in general terms. We also compromise a lot, and I'm sure Swedes also question things when necessary
3. What tips can you give Danish candidates, looking for jobs in Stockholm?
My tip would be to start by contacting a recruitment company and ask for advice on how to approach the job search. If you are new to the Swedish job market, it can be difficult to know where to start. I'm sure you may also have many other questions such as "How do I find a place to live?", "How do I get a social security number?" and so on. We can guide you, not only in the job search but in the whole process, and help you get answers to other questions you may have
4. What advantages, can Danish jobseekers take advantage of?
You should not limit yourself to Danish-speaking jobs. But I think you really have a good opportunity to benefit from your language skills. Many international organisations have their Nordic headquarters in Stockholm, and they are interested in you, especially because you speak Danish. Even if you focus on Danish-speaking jobs, there is less competition, which ultimately increases your chances.
5. What do you miss most, about Denmark?
When it comes to food; I would say real Danish rye bread. Other than that, maybe my bike, and bike lanes (it feels safer to cycle in Denmark, than here in Sweden).
For more information, contact Marin Jóhannudóttir at marin.johannudottir@multimind.se