The main point of Swedish recruitment agencies is making it easier for you to find a job in Sweden. They know a lot about the job market and have connections with companies that are hiring, yet there isn’t a lot of info about them online. So, hopefully, this article will tell you which ones are the best in Sweden, and give you tips on how to choose the right one for you. Let’s do it!
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Why Use Recruitment Agencies in Sweden?
Here are three good reasons why I think going through a recruitment agency might be a smart move for foreigners:
They Know the Swedish Job Market
Job agencies maintain connections with many companies across Sweden and are often informed about job vacancies before they are made public.
This kind of access to these hidden job markets can make a big difference in finding a job quickly as it allows you to apply for positions that may have less competition and are more closely aligned with your skills.
They also help you in making your cv, cover letters and train you on how to interview for jobs which substantially increases your chances of finding a job with a good pay.
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Paperwork Help
Recruitment agencies can help make the paperwork related to getting a job in Sweden simpler.
In fact, they know exactly what needs to be done (such as navigating work permit applications or understanding tax obligations in Sweden), which can save you a lot of time and headaches.
Tailored Job Matches
Job recruitment agencies are filled with consultants that can match you with jobs that fit your skills and what you’re looking for.
Instead of applying for every job you see, a recruitment agency can help you find jobs that are a good match for your experience in Sweden, even if you don’t speak Swedish!
Oh, and they can help you negotiate your salary (and even recommend you to decline the job offer if the pay is not good enough), which is a huge help if this is your first experience working at a Swedish company.
Top Recruitment Agencies in Sweden
| Recruitment Agency Name | Recruitment Agency Address |
|---|---|
| Wise Professionals | Kungsgatan 20, 411 19 Göteborg, Sweden |
| Incluso | Hälsingegatan 49, 113 31 Stockholm, Sweden |
| Manpower Sweden | Evenemangsgatan 21, 5 tr, 169 79 Solna, Sweden |
| Michael Page | Mäster Samuelsgatan 42, 111 57 Stockholm, Sweden |
| Autorekrytering | Kungsgatan 64, 111 22 Stockholm, Sweden |
| Saljpoolen | Wallingatan 33, 111 24 Stockholm, Sweden |
| Ehrab Workforce Solutions | Victor Hasselblads gata 16A, 421 31 Västra Frölunda, Sweden |
| Talentor | Repslagargatan 15B, 118 46 Stockholm, Sweden |
| Trib | Jakobsbergsgatan 22, 111 44 Stockholm, Sweden |
| Ferrotaget | Klostergatan 9, 753 21 Uppsala, Sweden |
| Adecco | Svetsarvägen 6, 172 41 Solna, Sweden |
| Poolia | Torsgatan 11, 111 23 Stockholm, Sweden |
Wise Professionals
Wise Professionals helps skilled people find jobs with top companies in Sweden.
They match job seekers with the right employers, focusing on many different industries which especially helpful for people from other countries who speak English and want to work in Sweden.
One of their key tasks is to help you get your resume ready and prepare for job interviews.
They offer all kinds of jobs, both short-term and permanent, making them a good choice for anyone looking to ge their first Swedish paycheck or grow their career in Sweden.
Incluso
Incluso is dedicated to helping professionals find meaningful employment in Sweden by working with a variety of companies, big and small, across different sectors
They stand out for their commitment to diversity, making sure that English-speaking job seekers feel welcomed and valued in the Swedish job market.
Manpower Sweden
Manpower Sweden is one of the most famous recruitment agencies in Sweden.
They’re known for their wide network and ability to place individuals in roles that not only match their skills but also their career aspirations.
For those concerned about adapting to Swedish work culture (i.e. working hours, overtime regulations, etc..) Manpower Sweden provides great guidance thanks to their extensive experience and deep understanding of local employment laws, ensuring a smooth transition into the Swedish job market.
Their goal is to help you find a job where you can thrive, respecting work-life balance and ensuring great benefits (such as parental allowance, good sickness benefits, etc).
Michael Page
Michael Page stands out in the Swedish recruitment landscape for its tailored approach to connecting professionals with suitable job opportunities in Sweden.
Their consultants are experts in various industries, ensuring that job seekers receive personalized advice throughout their job search and beyond.
Also, they’re experts in key aspects of the Swedish job market, such as the standard 25 days of vacation, notice and probation period norms for new hires—common concerns for foreigners starting their first job in Sweden.
This knowledge is invaluable for foreigners who are not only looking for a job but also aiming to understand their rights and what to expect in a Swedish work environment.
Autorekrytering
Autorekrytering is a recruitment agency with a focused mission to connect talents to the automotive industry in Sweden.
The agency prides itself on a deep understanding of the automotive field, offering personalized services that go beyond mere job placement by providing support throughout the job search process, from refining CVs to preparing for interviews, ensuring candidates are well-equipped to meet the demands of potential employers.
Saljpoolen
Saljpoolen focuses on sales and marketing positions across Sweden.
They understand the intricacies of the Swedish job market, making them a valuable ally for job seekers looking to enter or advance in the sales sector.
With a personalized approach, Saljpoolen can ensure foreign candidates are matched with positions that suit their skills.
Ehrab Workforce Solutions
Ehrab Workforce Solutions specializes in providing workforce solutions, particularly targeting the construction and engineering sectors in Sweden.
With a comprehensive approach to recruitment, Ehrab ensures that candidates not only find jobs but also understand the work culture and regulatory environment in Sweden.
They also offer support to English-speaking professionals from abroad, focusing on integrating them seamlessly into the Swedish job market. So, if you’re a engineer or construction worker looking to move to Sweden, you can definitely consider this agency!
Talentor
Talentor is a recruitment agency that shines in connecting talent with technology and executive roles across Sweden.
Their focus on technology and executive search makes them a top choice for professionals looking to continue developing their IT career in Sweden.
Trib
Trib stands out for its innovative approach to recruitment, specializing in digital, tech, and creative industries within Sweden that offers personalized support and understanding the unique needs of each candidate.
Their dedication to matching the right talent with the right company makes them a trusted partner for professionals aiming to advance their careers in the digital and creative sectors.
Ferrotaget
Ferrotaget is a recruitment agency focused on engineering and manufacturing sectors, providing valuable assistance to professionals, including those from English-speaking backgrounds, seeking opportunities in Sweden.
They are known for their deep understanding of the technical and industrial job market, facilitating a seamless integration into these critical industries.
Adecco
Adecco is a global leader in workforce solutions, offering a wide range of services from temporary staffing to permanent placements across various sectors in Sweden.
They are particularly adept at helping Swedes and foreigners alike to leave unemployment by assisting them find opportunities that align with their skills and career goals.
Poolia
Poolia specializes in recruiting for positions in finance, IT, engineering, and administration, making it a prime choice for professionals seeking opportunities in these fields in Sweden.
With a strong commitment to finding the perfect match between job seekers and companies, Poolia ensures that every placement is a step forward in the candidate’s career.
Arbetsförmedlingen
Over the last few years, it seems the Swedish government has dialed back on its direct involvement in helping foreigners secure employment in Sweden.
The reduction in staff and resources has transformed Arbetsförmedlingen into a more automated process that primarily keeps track of employment but doesn’t actively assist in job placement as it might have in the past.
At least, that’s what it seems it’s happening from the outside.
So, don’t expect to rely solely on government services for job placement. The landscape of job hunting in Sweden has shifted, with private recruitment agencies now playing a crucial role in connecting foreign job seekers with potential employers.
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Don’t Forget LinkedIn
LinkedIn also deserves a mention, although it’s not a recruitment agency as it’s a powerful tool for networking, allowing individuals to connect with potential employers directly.
In fact, in my experience, a lot of my friends have successfully used LinkedIn to find job opportunities in Sweden, making it a valuable resource for job seekers.
How to Choose the Right Recruitment Agency in Sweden?
There are a few steps I recommend regarding choosing a recruitment agency in Sweden:
Industry Focus
I’d tell you to begin by identifying agencies that specialize in your field of expertise so that not only understands the Swedish job market but also has a strong network within your industry.
This will ensure they’re well-equipped to match you with opportunities that align with your skills instead of just placing you in any available position that’s not related at all to your skills (which will keep you from resigning out of frustration in the near future).
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Solid Reputation
Reputation matters a lot in Sweden’s relatively small and tightly-knit professional communities which is why I’d recommend you to look for agencies with positive reviews from both job seekers and employers.
In fact, I found that feedback from other foreigners who have successfully found jobs in Sweden through an agency can be particularly insightful.
I mean, the idea here is that these agencies should be successful in placing candidates in suitable roles are likely to offer you a similar positive experience.
Tailored to You
The right agency should take the time to understand your unique situation, career aspirations, and reasons for moving to Sweden.
This personal touch is crucial, as it ensures the agency can advocate effectively on your behalf and find positions that not only meet your professional qualifications but also your personal goals and lifestyle preferences.
What do you Need to Get a Job In Sweden?
There are a mixture of bureaucratic steps you must follow if you want to find a job in Sweden and start working legally:
Get Personal Number (Personnummer)
Upon moving to Sweden, applying for a personal number from the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) is essential.
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This number is crucial for accessing various services, including healthcare and banking, and is often required by employers.
You won’t be able to even open a bank account in Sweden if you don’t have your presonnummer, much less get a job.
Get a Work Permit
If you’re from outside the EU/EEA, you’ll need a work permit before you can start working in Sweden.
To qualify, you must have received an official job offer from a Swedish employer.
The job must also pay at least the minimum wage set in Sweden and offer conditions that match those set by Swedish collective agreements or those that are customary within the occupation or industry.
I actually wrote a full guide about getting this permit:
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Recognition of Qualifications
Depending on your profession, you may need to have your qualifications recognized in Sweden.
This is particularly relevant for regulated professions, such as healthcare, where specific Swedish qualifications are required to practice.
Here’s a quick summary on how to get your educational documentation recognized in Sweden:
- Identify the Responsible Swedish Authority: Different professions are regulated by different authorities in Sweden. For example, the National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen) is responsible for healthcare professions. Identify which authority governs your profession.
- Submit an Application: Visit the website of the responsible authority to find out the application process for having your qualifications recognized. You’ll likely need to fill out an application form and submit it along with copies of your qualifications and any other requested documents (oh, and this documents are almost always have to be translated to Swedish and/or English)
- Pay the Application Fee: There is often a fee associated with the recognition process. Ensure you understand the costs and how to pay them as part of your application.
- Undergo Assessment: Your qualifications will be assessed to determine if they meet Swedish standards. In some cases, you may need to complete supplementary education or pass a proficiency test.
- Receive Your Decision: After your application is reviewed, you’ll receive a decision. If your qualifications are recognized, you can begin practicing your profession in Sweden.
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