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The first steps on the labor market as a new graduate

Salary negotiations and employment contract

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

The first steps on the labor market as a new graduate

Salary negotiations and employment contract

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

The first salay negotiation as a new graduate

The first salay negotiation indicates the start of your career, so we recommend that you prepare what to answer when your future employer will ask you. And there is plenty of help to get from your trade union if you are 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 whe things you can focus on in your negotiation.

Remember, there are more things to negotiate than money - e.g. courses and continuing education, flexible hours and free internet.

Secure yourself better terms

The employment contract

Employment contract - what should I be aware of?

Before you start your new job, you must have an employment contract. The contract determines your terms of employment in relation to, among other things, working hours and place, salary, holiday and maternity leave. In addition to the legislation's minimum requirements for employees, the contract may contain terms that you have negotiated yourself.

For public employees and a large number of private employees, most of your rights will basically be determined in a collective agreement. But regardless of whether you are a private or public employee, you have the opportunity to negotiate for 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

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

Get a guidance session with AAU Career

Throughout your time as a student at AAU, you can get free career guidance on everything to do with your career. You may be in doubt about what you can do with your education, how you can put your competencies into words, or perhaps you need professional eyes on your CV.

Contact the career counsellors and have a chat about exactly what you need.