Tips for finding your career in Sweden
Are you curious about the Swedish job market but unsure of which strategies you need to enter it?
On this page our study and career counsellors share some of their tips about how to get your career in Sweden started. Why not start by watching a short film where Aysha offers advice on how to find a career in Sweden?
Start networking
The hidden job market refers to positions that are not publicly advertised and often filled through networking and direct referrals. It is often said that more than 70 % of the jobs are assigned before they make it to the different jobsites. Accessing the hidden job market requires a proactive and strategic approach. Starting to work on your network is there fore one of the most effective ways to find a job in Sweden.
Step out of your comfort zone
Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Initiate conversations and be proactive in expanding your network. Whether it's approaching a guest speaker after a lecture or reaching out to professionals for informational interviews, taking the initiative can lead to meaningful connections.
Get connected
Job market days, career fairs, alumni meetings and industry evenings are a few examples of happenings where you have the opportunity to meet potential employers. Another tip is to get involved in student associations and unions, as well as participating in different career events.
Platforms like LinkedIn are powerful tools for professional networking. Create a compelling profile that highlights your skills, experiences, and aspirations. Join relevant groups, follow industry leaders, and participate in discussions. Don't hesitate to connect with professionals, alumni and fellow students.
Be proactive
Building and maintaining a strong professional network, staying informed about industry trends, and being proactive in your job search will increase your chances of uncovering hidden job opportunities in Sweden.
Learn Swedish
Learning Swedish is a key to finding a job in Sweden. Stockholm University offers free courses for international students in Swedish. Start learning Swedish as quickly as possible.
Do an internship
An internship can give you the opportunity to gain real-world experience and develop valuable skills related to the workplace. Doing an internship can allow you to bridge the gap between academia and practical skills, providing a hands-on understanding of your field of study but also be a validation that you're pursuing the right career. It might also boost your CV and offer valuable references for future employers.
Internships can also provide a unique opportunity to gain insight into the Swedish work culture and is a great way to expand your professional network!
Use your thesis
Collaborating with prospective future employers when writing your master’s thesis could lead to useful contacts within the professional realm.
Some students write their master’s thesis in collaboration with a company, a public authority or organization for whom they examine a specific issue. This is often beneficial for both parties and the external partner (who might also be a prospective employer) is likely to be positive and helpful as they will get access to the results of the project and perhaps see the chance to recruit a new member of staff.
Build your professional network while doing your master thesis project
Get in touch with Alumni
Previous students can inspire you and share valuable experiences. Contact the study and career counselors at the departments to learn more about where their alumni have ended up after their studies. Already as a student you can join the university’s alumni network, as soon as you have completed a course at Stockholm University.
Join our career webinars
“Find your career in Sweden” is a webinar series that offers insight into the Swedish job market, gives you the inside track on what employers expect and goes through best practices on how to position yourself for employment.
Find your career in Sweden - a webinar series for international students
Contact
See Study and career counselling
Last updated: December 5, 2023
Source: Student Services