Photographs: Pexels / Leslea Petersen
Text: Leslea Petersen
The biggest challenge for internationals when arriving in Denmark is not just finding a great place to live but also finding that ever-elusive English-speaking role—especially as an accompanying partner. Denmark has ‘unwritten’ rules for job seekers that need to be understood and put into action.
My career journey started full of hope nearly 17 years ago. Although I am a native English speaker with years of experience, I struggled to understand why, after dozens of applications, I never even had an interview.
The main reason was the lack of network and, therefore, visibility with hiring managers and recruiters! Danes have a natural network from growing up in Denmark, for example, in school/university or boarding school, but we internationals must start from the beginning.
So how can you build those connections quickly so your hopes and aspirations for landing a new job don’t disappear in a flash like the summer in Denmark?
My journey means I can sympathise fully
As a career consultant and having experienced my struggles searching for work in those early days, it’s that understanding and knowledge that enables me to help other professional job seekers. I get to use my 20+ years in communications to help professionals communicate their skills and experience effectively and dynamically – helping them to stand out for the right reasons. I was invisible in the job market for many years, and as an empath, I really do understand how the lack of recognition takes your confidence even when you know you can do the job.
"The main platform for increasing visibility is LinkedIn. It’s an excellent way to showcase your expertise and knowledge."
LinkedIn is your friend
However, communicating what you have to offer is not just through a job application—via your CV and Cover letter - the main platform for increasing visibility is LinkedIn. It’s an excellent way to showcase your expertise and knowledge, and by building your voice, you increase your chances of being discovered by a hiring manager.
Here are my top tips for building your visibility and improving your chances of being hired using LinkedIn:
1. have the right job title:
What will the recruiter put in the search bar on LinkedIn to find you? Hint: It’s not your qualification or ‘Looking for new opportunities’. Search different job titles under ‘people’ and see which one is the most common and describes your career history and current needs best.
2. On LinkedIn, think about your audience:
Hiring managers and prospective companies. What do they need to know about you to hire you?
3. Use your ‘about’ section:
This section allows you to share what you can offer an organisation with your skills and expertise. What type of person are you? Would you be a good fit for their team?
4. Share your expertise:
You can do this through posts/articles and comment on posts from the organisations you are following. Let them see you!
5. Make those connections:
Connect with the companies where you think you would be a good fit so you are first in line to see job openings.
LinkedIn is a crucial way to connect within your targeted organisations and also highlight what sets you apart and why you are the perfect candidate for that role.
Job searching is arduous—it's a full-time job. However, improving your visibility will go a long way toward helping a recruiter recognise and value your skills so you can finally share your ‘new job’ news on LinkedIn.
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