Interview Feb 2024
Background
Can you tell us about where you are from, your childhood and how it influenced your career path?
I’m originally from Hong Kong, I’m lucky to say that I have 2nd child syndrome 😅 carefree and always been taken care of. I think that influences my mindset of life and career path. I worked but never had a “career” idea in my head until last year really. As I’m quite carefree I was always thinking: it will work out!
Did you have any women role models growing up, and how did they inspire you?
My mom has always been very creative, from cooking to making clothes, from doing little sketches to functional interior design. My sister is the one with the brains in the family; she inspired me, so I know my path is to stick to a more creative side and give up on Maths…🤣
How has your education and cultural background played a role in your career choices and success?
The education system in Hong Kong did not resonate with me! It has actually ruined reading for me. Due to a mix of crazy high expectations and a specific education structure, we were forced to memorize all subjects rather than focus on critical thinking. That put me off reading, I have mental blocks when I see long pages of text. This has contributed to my choosing a more creative path.
Please share your professional field of expertise, role, position, professional experience & career highlight prior to coming to Denmark.
I am originally a graphic designer. I finished my education in Copenhagen and have a master’s degree in visual communication. I’ve been working as a freelancer for very long time, but I was never proactive or searched for clients or promoting myself. I would take on jobs from friends or recommendations only, so I have always had a part-time job on the side to maintain me financially. Eventually, it got comfortable and the part-time became my main thing. Until last year, where I found my path as a social media strategist.
It just clicked, and this is what I want and should do: There’s no plan b.
Besides that, I’m a Zumba instructor. It is one of the best sports for me, dancing with a group of smiley faces, an hour of stress relief, an hour of me-time
Coming to Denmark
When and how did you come to Denmark? What are some of the challenges as a professional in Denmark, and how do you stay motivated to face them?
I came to Denmark in 2001 for my studies. After graduating I worked as a freelancer and had part-time jobs on the side.
I think 10 years ago, learning Danish and speaking Danish was a must, but now Copenhagen is getting more and more international which is a good thing and I mainly work with internationals. So I’m gonna say I haven’t really had any tough challenges.
Can you share about your current & future career aspirations in Denmark (the field/area of work)?
Right now, I’m working as a social media cheerleader, a.k.a. strategist at my company Claire the creator.
I do Instagram/ SoMe coaching for small businesses / DIY entrepreneurs that know very little to nothing about social media and branding. I coach them on how to use Instagram to grow their business, to be more visible in the digital world. They can carry it on their own and have fun with it instead of feeling frustrated and excited about their business.
I also run a few restaurant accounts (managing their account, plus a little bit of customer service.), and I’m open to more restaurant accounts! Because I’m a foodie, it doesn’t seem like I can get away from the Service industry.
Moving forward
Please share some strategies/platforms/blogs you use for continuous learning and personal development to keep up with the rapidly changing industry trends for your career growth?
In all aspects of life, a positive mindset is one of the most important things we need to learn and hold onto. How you see yourself and your relationship to the world will play to reality.
Which I have learned from the law of assumption.
What advice/strategy do you have for seeking career growth and advancement in your choice of career?
Networking! Even before I started working with SoMe, I was very active and social on Facebook and Instagram, and from that, I found groups and events where I met many people. My network has grown organically since I’ve been in CPH for this long. And luckily for me CPH has become increasingly international, so now there are more international events for us to meet and connect.
And from there, your people/clients will find you.
Danish culture
What are some similarities and differences between Danish culture and your home culture and how have you adapted to the cultural differences, and what have you learned from them?
I had an easier transition from Hong Kong to the UK to Denmark. I think the capitalist mindset is higher in DK… 15-20 years ago, it was quite different from now. If you consider how most Danes want and need everyone to live here to be perfect.
Luckily, Dk / Copenhagen is getting increasingly international, so people now understand how they must think internationally to grow in many aspects.
How did you build your network and social life in Denmark?
I think having an open mind is very important. Go to events when you would rather stay at home, push over the comfy to adventure, and expect nothing but a fun experience.
How did you navigate the language and communication barriers in Denmark, and what advice do you have for other non-native speakers?
I got put off learning Danish, as Danes typically only would ask me two questions when I met them at a party: 1.)How long have you been here? 2.) Oh, so you speak Danish now?!
I eventually learned, but when it comes to something I don’t understand, I will always switch back to English. The thing is, if people have a problem with you not speaking Danish, those are not your people.
For me, if you want to learn Danish. It is best to learn at your own pace. Don’t do it under Social pressure.
Final Thoughts
Any final thoughts, life mantras or strategies you would like to share through our CareerClub platform?
A positive mindset is a choice, is a training, is a lifestyle.
