We got interviewed by Tana Storani, Career/Linkedin Strategist & Personal Brander, on recruitment on the Swedish market.
Beyondo is recruiting internationals and Swedish homecomers for jobs on the Swedish market. We bring personal experience on what it is like to move to a country, learning a new culture, a new language and adopting to the local market. Looking for a job in a new country brings challenges and that is where we are to help!
Country Specifics – when looking for a job in Sweden
In your opinion, how is the market in Sweden? Is the country heavily hiring? Which areas?
There is, and will probably be for the coming years, a talent shortage. Positions like engineering, IT and highly skilled jobs, will always demand talent.
I would say all areas are recruiting at the moment, the highly skilled jobs more in demand.
Can you give me your overview in relation to the salary range in Sweden? What is the minimum wage?
There is no minimum salary by law in Sweden. Here the minimum salaries are set up by the trade unions in collective agreements. It depends on what area the job is within. There is something such as entry-level salaries, all depending on sector and job though.
Do you see that Sweden is open to recruiting foreigners? What skills and languages do candidates need to master to have a higher chance of employment?
Yes, there are many foreigners/internationals working in Sweden. A (higher) education in any field is always good to have and even though all Swedes do speak English, a lot of positions still require Swedish.
How does visa sponsorship work in Sweden? Do you have any tips in relation to the visa application?
As an EU member, you do not need a working visa in Sweden. However, to register in Sweden and get a personal number, you need to register at the tax office, Skatteverket. Then you will need to show that you have an income in Sweden. So, basically, in order to register here, you will need a job. It can be handy to read this before moving here,
Non-EU members will need a working permit for working in Sweden. The application is being done by the employer, hence, one needs to secure a position before moving here. Read more on what you need in order for the employer to apply for a visa for you:
Migration Service - Working in Sweden
I know that many candidates are apprehensive to ask about visa sponsorship. In your opinion, what would be the best way to ask a recruiter if the company gives sponsorship?
One should always ask! A recruiter will know if you will need a permit or not. If you are the right person with the right skills and the company is hiring international talents, they would not hesitate to apply for the permit for you. However, a lot of companies are not known with the working permit procedure and it can be time-consuming and take time before the permit is granted, therefore a lot of companies chose candidates with valid papers already, unfortunately.
What tips could you share with us about your country’s culture that would make it easier for foreign candidates to adapt to your job market?
I would advise everyone to read about Swedish culture and learn – to create awareness of Swedish culture before moving here. It always makes the transition smoother. Learning some Swedish is also beneficiary.
Talent Hunt in Sweden
What are the recruitment channels most used by recruiters? Which channels candidates should always be visible on? (job boards, LinkedIn, Facebook, referral)
It is important to have the right network in Sweden, so it can be difficult for an international to find their way here. A good profile on LinkedIn is good to have, join a local club to get to know locals and get local referrals. That works the best.
Do you prefer referrals or another source of recruitment?
A referral is always good; however, you need to show proactivity yourself.
Should candidates have 90 to 100% of the skills and experience to apply for a position?
I never believe there is a 100% match anyway, but yes, the closer to the match you are the better it is. Should you not have the most essential what is asked, I should not apply. The question is if you should apply for a job where it says, ‘Swedish is required’, I would say – it depends. In most cases, it is within an organization where Swedish is spoken and where they (even if they say so) are open to internationals. Perhaps it is an organization that you do not wish to work for anyway.
Tips on do’s and don’ts in a CV
During your candidate hunt, what are the main points you analyze in CVs?
A resume should not consist of more than 2 pages. Make sure it is in chronological order (last job first, as this is the most relevant and needs to be seen first). A short introduction ‘pitch’ on who you are and what you are looking for, all education (even if not relevant for the job), a short description of each job, computer skills and language skills.
What is the key information of a CV to impact the recruiter?
I would say the easier ‘read’ the more attention you will get from the recruiter. You will have to think that a recruiter might only spend 2-3 seconds for a first view of your resume.
Please check on type faults, language, spelling mistakes and accuracy before sending a resume. For example, if you have translated the resume, make sure it is 100% in one language etc.
What does NOT add in a CV?
To me, religious belief, sexual orientation is not relevant.
In your opinion, how should a CV be structured to perform well?
As already mentioned, less is more. The more ‘easy read’ -no complicated layout – is the best.
Do you recommend the candidate tailor the CV according to the position?
If one can apply for jobs in different directions, yes, that is a good idea. However, make sure you send the right one to the right job. If it is tweaked differently, it will lose attention directly.
Do you need to write a Cover letter in Sweden?
In your country, do common companies request a cover letter? Is it really important in the recruitment process?
I know a short one-pager resume and a cover letter are common in Sweden. I personally prefer a 2-pager resume with the most relevant information on it.
Should they include visa information? Or do they need a visa?
Yes, this is handy, however, can be used as ‘not interested’ if an employer sees you need a permit. But it all depends on what qualifications you bring in if your qualifications are needed, a permit should not be the issue.
What do you like to see in a cover letter?
Reasons for relocation to Sweden. ‘When, where and how’, your current situation and your preferred job. What transferable skills do you bring?
What the candidates should avoid adding in a cover letter?
To make it too long and detailed. Also, make sure there are no spelling mistakes in it.
Stay tuned for the second part where we give tips about using LinkedIn during your job search in Sweden, how to do well in interviews and more!
Here you can view this interview online!
Do you have any further questions regarding working in Sweden? Do not hesitate to reaching out to us at contact@beyondo.se
