Artists and musicians have many jobs, projects and fluctuating incomes - for many, over 30 employer relationships a year. In a system designed for people with permanent jobs, her 35 years of experience means everything. Both in finding solutions and explaining complex rules in a way that makes sense to members, she says.  

"The ability to explain complex issues in a clear and understandable way requires both overview and insight. For me, it gives me great satisfaction to be able to help the individual member - whether it's finding a solution or giving advice that makes a real difference in someone's everyday life. And that's where experience is a strength," she says. 

Why industry knowledge matters 

Over the years, Joan has encountered many different issues that have required a deep knowledge of the extensive and complicated legislation in the unemployment insurance sector. This is the knowledge and experience that you pay for when you are a member of the unemployment insurance department. We asked her what the biggest misconception is when it comes to unemployment insurance:  

"Many people think that all unemployment funds cover your needs equally well, regardless of industry or counselling services, but that's not the case. For artists and musicians, it's especially important to choose an unemployment fund that specialises in their profession," Joan explains. 

She also finds that many people confuse trade unions and unemployment funds.  

"It can be difficult to distinguish, but an unemployment insurance fund acts as a financial safety net - while the trade union fights for your rights and conditions at work. They complement each other, but they have different roles," she says. 

Over the years, Joan's knowledge from the unemployment insurance fund has grown through counselling and case management for each individual member. It is crucial for the Danish Artist Association's work to improve conditions for artists that the association knows the challenges that members face in the system. And that's where Joan's many years of experience is an invaluable source of knowledge.
 

Influencing the system requires knowledge 

Although the unemployment insurance fund is an authority, Joan sees her many years of work in the service of artists as much more than just administering rules. She emphasises that the Danish Artist Association has also been involved in influencing legislation to better take into account the reality of artists. 

"I think we've made a great effort to shape legislation over the 35 years I've been involved. It's something we can be proud of," she says. 

She emphasises that working for better legislation that takes into account the special labour market conditions of artists means that members are strong and secure - and where good, solid insurance can make a world of difference.  

Job satisfaction and meaning 

After 35 years in the Danish Artist Union's unemployment insurance fund, Joan still has the same driving force: to create security and meaning for members. 

"When I've had a good day at work, it's because I've worked on tasks that make sense and make a difference to the individual member. When I can deliver something I can be proud of - and feel that it really helps someone - it gives me job satisfaction," says Joan Kristensen, who has handled thousands of cases for artist members over the years.  

You can read more about the requirements for unemployment benefits here or contact the Danish Artist Union unemployment insurance department for personalised advice.