How you apply for a job in Sweden varies between industries. Usually, you submit your CV and a cover letter electronically – the company will then contact selected applicants to be interviewed.
Writing a CV
A curriculum vitae, or CV (also known as a résumé), is a summary of your professional background. Your CV should be one to two pages long and include an overview of your work experience, studies, achievements or awards, special skills and references. Your contact information should always be included at the top of the first page.
Example CVs:
What to include in your cover letter
No more than one page long, your cover letter (personligt brev) should outline why you are the right person for the position. Rather than simply listing your CV merits, try to make connections between what the company asks for in the job listing and your own skills and experience. This is your chance to show the employer why you are the best person for the job.
Other documents required?
Some fields may require other types of documents or samples of work, such as a portfolio or certification. If you are not sure what is being asked for, you can either contact the employer directly to ask for a clarification or contact the relevant union for advice.
Links to Swedish unions
- The Swedish Trade Union Confederation (LO)
- The Swedish Confederation of Professional Associations (SACO)
- The Swedish Confederation of Employees (TCO)
How to prepare for an interview
The company will review your documents and contact you if you have gone forward to the interview (intervju) stage of the recruitment process. The employer already knows your basic qualifications; during the interview, you have the chance to show your enthusiasm for the job at hand and give the employer a sense of who you are as a person. Don’t be surprised if some of the questions asked are not directly work-related – be prepared to talk about your family and what you do in your spare time.
If you apply for a job in Sweden from abroad, your first interview may take place via phone or video conference (e.g. Skype). If you are invited to come to Sweden for an interview, bear in mind that citizens of certain countries may need a visa. See the Migration Agency’s website for details.
During the interview, the employer should let you know what the rest of the recruitment process will look like. Depending on the field and type of position, you may attend several interviews or complete a test.
What happens next?
After your interview, the employer will contact you to let you know if you have been selected for the job. Once you have a job offer, your country of citizenship will determine your next steps. Read about work permits in the next article to learn about the process for citizens of your particular country.
