Working abroad - outside Sweden
If the idea of working outside of Sweden appeals to you, there are many different ways to make this happen.
Looking for a job abroad isn’t so different from looking for a job in Sweden. The internet offers easy access to thousands of job openings around the globe.
Take a moment to think about the following questions before you start your international job search:
- Why do you want to work abroad?
- What part of the world do you want to work in?
- What do you know about the country?
- Where can you find reliable information about the country and the available jobs?
- How long would you consider being gone?
Once you find a job that interests you, the next step is becoming familiar with the application process in that particular region. In addition to the actual job search, there are laws, regulations, salary conditions and cultural differences to think about. One good way of getting your questions answered is to talk someone who has lived and worked in the country you are considering. There are ususally trade organisations, associations and other networks for Swedish expats that you can contact. For example: Föreningen Svenskar i Världen, Utlandssvenskar.com.
Another way of finding a job abroad is to apply to a Swedish company that operates in other countries. Make it clear as soon as you get the job that you are interested in having an international career one day.
The Swedish government is working on making it easier for Swedes to work for organisations abroad. The government’s website features international job ads: if you would like to work on development assistant projects, check out Sida’s website as well. Would you consider working for one of EU’s institutions? The website of the Swedish Public Employment Service (Arbetsförmedlingen) has excellent links to information about working abroad.
Studies or traineeships abroad
Being in school puts you in a good position to study or obtain a traineeship abroad. This is an excellent way to find out what it’s like to live and work in another country. If you already know that you want to work outside of Sweden after graduation, you can make your CV more attractive by participating in a foreign exchange programme or working as a trainee in another Nordic country, in Europe or elsewhere.