Etiquette & Customs

A firm handshake, direct eye contact, and a grin are used in informal greetings. When you arrive or depart, shake hands and say goodbye to each person separately. Shake hands first with the ladies. Danes frequently use their first names when introducing themselves. For their birthdays and Christmas, Danes send gifts to their loved ones and close friends.

And if you are on a business trip to Denmark, reservations are required. Appointments should be confirmed in writing. Initial correspondence ought to be addressed to the business rather than a specific person. Since many Danes are on holiday from mid-June to mid-August, avoid trying to plan meetings during this time. You should be on time for meetings. You will be meeting Danes who are on time.

If you anticipate being held for more than 5 minutes, call right away. When you arrive and when you depart, shake hands with everyone. Handshakes need to be very forceful and brief. Keep looking at the person you're introducing. Always extend your hand to women first. There is a card exchange. Your company's actual address, not a post office box, should be on your business card. Danes use their last name and their professional title. When addressing someone who lacks a formal title, use Herr (Mister), Fru (Misses), or Froken (Miss). Danes transition easily to first names. However, don't use first names until you've been invited.