Jump to content
HomeChoices along the way and jobsGraduating soon

Salary negotiations and employment contract

Your first salary negotiation is important, because you need to set the bar at the right level from the beginning. But how do salary negotiations work in Denmark and what do you need to be aware of in your contract?

Salary negotiations and employment contract

Your first salary negotiation is important, because you need to set the bar at the right level from the beginning. But how do salary negotiations work in Denmark and what do you need to be aware of in your contract?

As a fresh graduate, it can be intimidating to negotiate your salary and deal with the legal aspects of your first job in Denmark. Fortunately, there is plenty of help available from your trade union if you are a member of one.

Here, we will explain to you the Danish system and how salary is usually negotiated in the public and the private sector. We will also look into the things you can focus on in your negotiation.

How to go about it in Denmark

The salary negotiation

Secure yourself better terms

The employment contract

In addition to the legislation's minimum requirements for employees, your  contract may contain terms that you have negotiated yourself.

For public employees and a large number of private employees, most of your rights is determined in a collective agreement. But regardless, you have the opportunity to negotiate better terms in your contract.

4 things you must check in the contract

Before signing, check that the contract contains at least:

1.

How much holiday you are entitled to

2.

How long your notice period is

3.

Your salary, retirement benefits, and maternity or paternity benefits and leave

4.

Your working hours and terms regarding overtime work

Your trade union can help

If you are a member of a trade union, it can be a good idea to have them read through the contract before you sign it. If you do not wish to be a member of a trade union, you can have e.g. a lawyer read through your contract.