Click, click, click - As the sound of heels echoed on the stone floor, marking the entrance of attendees into the event hall, small clusters of people gathered around the refreshment table. 

Outside the large glass windows, the winter evening reflected into the room, distorting the faces of the crowd in an interplay of light and shadow. In a moment, those faces would turn toward the stage. Once silent rows were now filled with eager participants. Conversations sparked and faded as everyone settled in, ready for the evening’s reflections and practical advice on building a successful international career.

The event showcased insights from five leaders whose diverse backgrounds and experiences offered lessons on what it takes to thrive on a global scale. The key themes centered around courage, curiosity, and adaptability — all essential ingredients for success in an international career. 

Cultural differences and leadership across borders were central to the conversation. Rina Castillo from Accenture highlighted how consulting offers opportunities to work with diverse teams and clients, fueling career growth. “Consulting exposes you to different cultures, and your first international experience leads to the next one,” she said. 

Rina also noted how the Danish work culture often differs from international environments, particularly in terms of feedback. "In Denmark, we tend to be blunt and shut things down quickly. But abroad, you learn the value of a more constructive feedback culture. You must be observant in meetings and in rooms with people from different backgrounds. The more curious you are as a leader, the more collaborative you’ll become."

Kathryn Alexis Jørgensen from KPMG emphasized how even small things - like being unaware of local customs - can impact your role when you’re new to a country. "You can come off as unintentionally rude simply because you don’t know the local norms or everyday gestures. Making friends in the new environment is crucial for success." And according to Peder Stedal, being aware of cultural differences is key: “Working abroad gives you a new perspective. You learn to navigate both formal and informal hierarchies in different cultures. Language is also key. You must be genuinely interested in other cultures - not arrogant - and learn to navigate those cultural difference,” he said.

Serena De Maio emphasized the importance of the right challenge. “If you choose an international career, you must find the right challenge and have a job that excites you,” she said. “But it’s not always rainbows and stars. It takes time to adapt.” 

The right challenge is not always visible and according to Mette Hybschmann from Vestas, looking beyond boards can broaden the perspective: “In Denmark, women are often overlooked by recruiters. When I started talking to international recruiters it changed in an instant.” With a Danish background and extensive international experience, Mette has witnessed how qualifications and candidates are perceived differently across borders. She explains that breaking the glass ceiling in Denmark as an ambitious woman can be challenging, which is why an international perspective can accelerate career advancement in a shorter timeframe.

Even though international careers can be more than stars and rainbows, the panelists agreed that the ability to step outside one’s comfort zone, adapt to unfamiliar environments, and learn from diverse cultures is what ultimately makes a leader successful on the global stage. The challenges of working abroad, from cultural misunderstandings to adjusting leadership styles, are not to be underestimated. 

For those ready to embark on the international career journey, the panelists offered a final piece of advice: stay curious, be brave, and embrace the opportunities that come with stepping into new cultures and roles. The rewards are well worth the effort.