Thriving Beyond Imposter Syndrome: A Guide for International Women Working in Denmark
Moving to a new country like Denmark brings a world of opportunities—but also unique challenges, especially in our careers. For many international women, navigating the Danish job market means not only mastering a new language or understanding flat hierarchies, but also battling an internal voice whispering, “You’re not good enough.”
This feeling is more common than you might think—it's called imposter syndrome, and it affects even the most accomplished professionals. For international women navigating life and work in Denmark, it can show up in unique ways. Let’s unpack the key moments where it tends to surface, and explore some ways to help you move through them with more confidence.
1. Job Search & Application Phase
💭 “Why would they hire me? I’m not qualified enough.”
Many women—especially internationals—hold back from applying to jobs unless they meet 100% of the criteria. Men will apply when they meet 60% of job requirements, while women typically wait until they meet them all (1).
In Denmark, where informal networking plays a huge role in recruitment, estimated 70% of jobs are filled through connections (2), this hesitation can be even more limiting. The reality? Danish companies value cultural fit, soft skills, and adaptability just as much as technical qualifications.
✅ Reality Check: Nobody checks all the boxes. Confidence—yes, even faked a little—can open more doors than perfection.
2. Interviewing
💭 “What if they ask something I don’t know?”
💭 “I am not as good as the other candidates.”
Feeling like a fraud in an interview setting is common. The fear of “getting caught” or seeming too confident is heightened when you're speaking in a second language or navigating unfamiliar cultural cues.
Denmark is known for its low power distance work culture, which often leads to less hierarchical, more conversational interviews. Remember, this is a two-way process—you're also evaluating if the company is right for you.
✅ Reality Check: You’re not conning anyone. You’re presenting your skills and potential (pro tip: make sure you prepare a list of relevant vocabulary for your role in English/Danish before the interview for an extra confidence boost). And yes, you belong in the room. If you are invited for an interview, you already qualify for the job, now it’s time to show the full you!
3. Starting the Job (Onboarding)
💭 “Everyone here is so smart. I have no idea what I’m doing.”
The Danish workplace often prides itself on autonomy and trust. This can be empowering—but also overwhelming if you're used to more structured onboarding. In the early days, many women feel like a “hiring mistake,” especially if they’re the only international or woman on a team.
Yet data shows that diverse teams perform 35% better (3), and Denmark continues to push for more inclusive workplaces, especially in STEM and leadership roles.
✅ Reality Check: You’re supposed to be learning. No one expects mastery on day one—not even in Denmark. Just make sure you remain open to embrace the office culture and get to know as many colleagues as possible. Coffee breaks are important in Denmark!
4. Growth, Recognition & Asking for What You Deserve
💭 “I just got lucky.”
💭 “What if I’m not really worth that much?”
Even after earning a promotion or being recognized at work, many international women hesitate to ask for higher pay. Impostor syndrome can make you second-guess your value or feel like you're pushing your luck. But here’s the truth: if you’ve delivered results, taken on more responsibility, or leveled up in your role—you have every right to ask for compensation that reflects that.
In Denmark, where transparency and fairness are highly valued, salary negotiations are expected—especially during promotions or performance reviews. Still, women are statistically less likely to negotiate pay. A study showed that men are 3 times more likely to be successful in a salary negotiation (4).
✅ Reality Check: You didn’t get where you are by chance—and being recognized for your work means you’re adding value. Don’t be afraid to put a number on that value. The company already sees your worth—now it’s your turn.
5. Transitioning or Leaving
💭 “They’ll fall apart without me… or worse, not notice I’m gone.”
Ending a job can trigger a swirl of emotions—especially guilt or invisibility. Many women wrestle with feelings of being both irreplaceable and insignificant. In Denmark, where work-life balance and healthy exits are prioritized, it's essential to normalize transitions.
✅ Reality Check: You’ve made an impact, but one role doesn’t define your entire journey. This is just the next chapter, not the final one. Leave on a positive note—your reputation travels with you, and in a small country like Denmark, you never know who might open the next door in your career.
Final Thoughts
Impostor syndrome doesn’t disappear overnight—but naming it is the first step in quieting it. As an international woman in Denmark, you bring not only your skills, but a valuable global perspective. That’s not something to downplay—that’s something to celebrate.
Whether you're job hunting, onboarding, or stepping into leadership, remember this: you deserve to be here 🌍💪
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