Swede Life: Job Search in Sweden and How to Stay Resilient

Over the past year, I’ve submitted over 200 job applications, and I must admit, 2023-24 was an incredibly challenging time for those of us in the biotech and medtech sectors. These industries have faced significant hurdles due to disruptions in global supply chains and the rising costs of essential materials, largely driven by the war in Ukraine. Despite these difficulties, I remained persistent in my search to find the right role.

Today, I’m proud to work as a Consumer Science Scientist at Kenvue. While my original career path looked different during my job hunt, I was open to exploring new industries. I went through numerous interviews, answered tough questions, and though I faced many rejections, I never stopped pushing forward.

Sweden, with its stunning landscapes, progressive social policies, and strong economy, is an attractive destination for job seekers around the world. Whether you're a skilled professional, a recent graduate, or a newcomer looking to start fresh, finding a job in Sweden can open up incredible opportunities for personal and career growth. However, like any job market, understanding how to navigate the Swedish employment landscape is crucial. In this post from the Swede Life series, I’ll share my personal journey through the ups and downs of job searching in today’s tough market. Stay tuned!

1. Understand the Swedish Job Market

Before diving into applications, it's important to understand Sweden's key industries and the overall job market:

• Tech and IT: Sweden is home to tech giants like Spotify, Ericsson, and Klarna. The country has a vibrant startup ecosystem, especially in cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg, making it a hub for tech talent.

• Healthcare: Sweden’s public healthcare system offers a wide range of opportunities for doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. For certain positions you might need to study in a Swedish university to qualify for your degree.

• Engineering and Manufacturing: Companies like Volvo, Scania, and SKF are major players in the engineering sector, offering opportunities in automotive, mechanical, and industrial engineering.

• Green and Renewable Energy: Sustainability is a core value in Sweden, so there's growing demand for professionals in renewable energy, environmental science, and green technology.

Make sure you study each industry and specific companies before pressing apply.

2. Learn the Language (but Knowing English Goes Far)

While English is widely spoken and many companies (especially in tech) use English as their working language, knowing Swedish can give you a significant edge in your job search. I suggest you filter out Swedish jobs if you are not good at Swedish (below B2 level). For jobs in healthcare, government, or more customer-facing roles, fluency in Swedish is often required.

That said, there are plenty of opportunities for English speakers, particularly in international companies and startups. If you're planning to stay long-term, learning Swedish is a must have option. I don't believe one can grow at the top of the hierarchy levels without knowing the local language.

3. Build a fluent and successful CV

Swedish employers value succinctness, clarity, and professionalism in applications. A few tips for crafting your CV and cover letter (or "personligt brev") for the Swedish market:

• CV Format: Keep it simple and concise. One or two pages max, highlighting your skills and experience relevant to the job. Include contact details, educational background, work experience, and relevant skills (such as language or technical expertise).

• Personalist Brev: This is a personalized cover letter that focuses on why you want to work for the company and what you bring to the table. Swedish employers appreciate when candidates align their values with the company’s mission.

Swedes also value modesty, so avoid over-exaggerating your accomplishments; focus on how your skills meet the job requirements.

Most importantly, tailor your CV for every job application. DO NOT SEND THE SAME CV TO ALL APPLICATIONS!!

4. Using Job Search Platforms

Several job portals can help you find employment opportunities in Sweden:

• Arbetsförmedlingen: Sweden's official employment service has thousands of job listings, along with helpful resources for job seekers, including career advice and training programs.

• LinkedIn: Sweden has a strong presence on LinkedIn, and it's a valuable resource for networking and finding job openings. Many companies post vacancies on LinkedIn before or instead of traditional job boards.

• Jobbsafari: This platform aggregates job listings from various industries across Sweden.

• Jobbsprånget: Moving with a family member? sign up in Jobbsprånget and get matched with businesses for a short term job or internships.

• Academic Work: Specializes in jobs for students, recent graduates, and professionals with up to five years of experience.

• Varbi: academic positions, PhD, researcher applications are all posted here.

Networking is also essential in Sweden, so consider attending local career fairs, meetups, or professional events.

5. Cultural Awareness: The Swedish Workplace

Understanding Swedish work culture is essential to thriving in your new job. Swedish workplaces are known for their:

• Flat Hierarchies: Decision-making is often collective, and all employees, regardless of rank, are encouraged to voice their opinions. Read my post about Lagom culture here.

• Work-Life Balance: Sweden is famous for its generous parental leave, vacation time, and an emphasis on achieving a good work-life balance.

• Fika: read my post about Fika culture here and part two.

Additionally, punctuality is highly valued in Swedish culture. Always arrive on time for meetings and interviews.

6. Swedish References and Social Insurance Number

Some employers in Sweden may ask for references. If you're new to the country, this can be tricky, but you can use former international employers or colleagues. After you secure a job, you'll also need a personnummer, which is a social security number required for many aspects of Swedish life, from opening a bank account to signing a rental lease. If you apply form outside of Sweden you need to follow the visa process after you get the job contract.

7. Consider an Internship or Temporary Position

If you're having trouble finding a permanent position, consider applying for internships (praktik) or temporary jobs (vikariat). Many companies in Sweden offer internships that can lead to permanent employment. Temporary positions also provide a way to build your local work experience and expand your network.

8. Networking is Key

Sweden is a relationship-oriented culture, and networking can often lead to job opportunities. 30 % of jobs never get advertised so ask around and let people know you are open to new positions, Attend professional networking events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, or meet people in your industry. Swedes are generally open and approachable, and making connections can greatly increase your chances of finding a job.

If you’ve followed all the steps and still haven’t found success, don’t lose heart. Patience and resilience are your greatest allies in this process. I know it’s easier said than done, and the struggle is real, but it’s crucial not to give in or settle too quickly. In today’s economic climate, job hunting is tougher than ever because companies are more cautious about hiring the wrong candidate due to limited resources. From an industry perspective, hiring is a big decision; employing the wrong person can damage both the company’s credibility and its resources. So, stay persistent—keep applying and pushing forward!