Landing a job in the Gothenburg region

New to Gothenburg and ready to work? From writing a Swedish-style CV to making the most of LinkedIn and building your professional network, this guide explains the steps that will bring you closer to your first job in the region.

Starting a job search in a new country can feel like stepping into uncharted territory. You arrive with skills, experience, and ambition, but the rules of the local labour market may be different from what you’re used to. In the Gothenburg region, opportunities are plenty – from cutting-edge tech and life science to logistics, green industry, and creative sectors. Yet to succeed, it helps to understand how recruitment works here, what employers expect, and which tools will give you an edge.

The goal of this guide is simple: to help you move confidently through the Swedish job market and into your first role in the Gothenburg region. 

Your step-by-step guide to landing a job in the Gothenburg region:

1. How job search works in Sweden
2. The Swedish CV, made simple
3. LinkedIn that gets seen
4. Build your network
5. Resources and support in Gothenburg
6. A word on culture

1. How job search works in Sweden

The Swedish labour market values transparency, efficiency, and equality. Recruitment processes here are structured but can move quickly once they begin. Unlike in some countries where hiring decisions stretch over many months, employers in Gothenburg often look to fill roles as soon as they appear. That means you should be ready to act fast when you see an opening.

A typical recruitment process may start with a screening call, move to one or two interviews, and sometimes include a test or case assignment. References are often requested before a final offer, but they are usually supplied upon request rather than listed on your CV. Cover letters, if asked for, should be concise – one page is enough. Employers appreciate clear, focused communication that shows you understand the role.

Swedish companies also value punctuality and preparation. If you’re invited to an interview, research the organisation carefully, review its values and recent news, and prepare a few thoughtful questions. Cultural fit is taken seriously: employers want to know you can thrive in a collaborative, egalitarian environment.

2. The Swedish CV, made simple

In Sweden, the résumé is referred to as a CV (Curriculum Vitae) and should not be a lengthy autobiography. Employers expect a document that is focused, relevant, and easy to scan. The standard length is one page, up to two if you’re applying for a managerial position. Prioritise your most recent and relevant experience, and make sure each bullet point highlights results as well as responsibilities. Numbers, outcomes, and impact matter. And unless you’re truly comfortable in speaking Swedish during an interview, stick to English in the CV.
A well-prepared CV answers a recruiter’s unspoken question: “Does this person fit the job I’m hiring for?” That means tailoring every CV to the position you’re applying for. Sending out the same generic document to dozens of employers is unlikely to yield results. Instead, study the job description, identify key requirements, and reflect them back in your CV.

Recruiters often use applicant tracking systems (ATS). These filter applications based on keywords. For instance, if the job ad mentions “data analysis in Python,” and your CV only says “worked with scripts,” the system may miss you entirely. That’s why mirroring the employer’s own wording matters. At the same time, avoid keyword stuffing: your CV should remain readable and natural.

Formatting should be clean and straightforward. Tables and fancy layouts may confuse ATS systems, so stick to a simple design that highlights content. Saving your CV as a PDF is usually the safest option, as it reduces the risk that your layout becomes distorted when opened on a different computer.

However, ATS is not only about keywords or layout – it is a way for employers to reduce a large number of applications to a manageable shortlist. For example, a company may set a rule that all applications must show at least five years of relevant experience. If you only have three years, your CV may be filtered out automatically, even if the wording and format are perfect. In other cases, the system may exclude profiles that do not match a specific education, nationality, or professional background. You cannot “beat” this logic by adding more keywords; instead, focus on applying for roles where you actually meet the core requirements.

Highlight skills, languages and honesty

InInstead, aim for bullet points that start with active verbs and end with results: “Led a team of 5 in developing an internal tool, reducing reporting time by 30%.”

Language skills are also important. Even if the role requires only English, including your level of Swedish shows commitment. Other languages may also be valuable, especially in international companies.

Soft skills – teamwork, communication, adaptability – are highly valued, but they should be demonstrated through examples rather than listed vaguely. For instance, describe how you collaborated across departments or solved a cross-cultural challenge.

In Sweden, an applicant photo is common but not mandatory, and there is no single “right” or “wrong” choice. Some people worry that a picture may lead to unconscious bias; others feel that it helps them appear more approachable. If you decide to include a photo, keep it neutral and professional – a clear headshot, good light, and no heavy filters. If you prefer not to use a photo, that is equally acceptable, and employers are used to seeing both options.

Finally, keep in mind that Swedish employers expect honesty. Exaggeration or creative inflation of titles will not help. Trust is central to Swedish working culture, and that begins with your application.

3. LinkedIn that gets seen

LinkedIn plays a central role in the Swedish job market. Recruiters here use it not just to check candidates but actively to search for them. Having a complete, polished profile can make the difference between being discovered and being overlooked. In many cases, LinkedIn is the natural next step after a CV: if an employer likes your application, they will often open your profile to get a fuller picture of who you are.
When employers hire in Sweden, they want to feel confident that they can trust the person they are recruiting and that this person will work well with the existing team. LinkedIn is therefore more than a list of jobs – it is a place where you can show how you communicate, what you value, and how you interact with others. A good profile should make it feel as if the reader “gets to know you” a little: how you think, how you collaborate, and what you care about.

Build visibility and connections

Activity also matters. Commenting thoughtfully on posts, sharing insights, and following companies you admire can put you on the radar of recruiters. Authentic engagement is key: you don’t need to write original posts daily, but you should show that you’re active in your field.

Visibility is vital. Employers check what kind of digital footprint you leave. Are you engaged with industry discussions? Do you follow local companies? Do you support peers? All of this signals professionalism and cultural alignment.

Another important aspect is connection strategy. Recruiters at large companies like Volvo receive dozens of connection requests daily. They may not respond to all. A more effective tactic is to connect with professionals in similar roles to yours, or with people in your target departments. Building genuine relationships with peers increases the chance of later referrals.

When you send a connection request, always add a short, personalised note. Explain who you are, why you want to connect, and what you might have in common – for example, a shared professional interest, a specific project, or a company you both follow. Avoid messages that focus only on finding a job; instead, focus on learning, exchanging experiences, or staying in touch with people in your field. This makes it easier for others to say yes and to see you as a potential future colleague, not just as someone asking for a favour.
It is also perfectly normal not to receive a reply to every message or request. People may be busy or have other priorities. A lack of response is rarely personal; it simply means you move on and continue building your network elsewhere.

Keep your profile updated regularly. Every few months, revisit your About section, update your skills, and add any new projects or training. A fresh profile photo can signal activity and attention to detail, but keep the photo professional.

LinkedIn also allows you to set job alerts, follow organisations, and even showcase your “Open to Work” status. Use these tools wisely. Being strategic with your online presence is one of the fastest ways to become visible in the Gothenburg job market.

In short, treat LinkedIn as an extension of your CV and as a networking space. It is where you build relationships, show who you are, and make it easier for the right people to find you.

4. Build your network

In Gothenburg, as in much of Sweden, networks are often the bridge to new opportunities. That does not mean who-you-know trumps competence, but personal connections and recommendations can open doors faster.

Networking is about building relationships, not asking strangers for jobs. A strong network develops when people know you, trust you, and have experienced your competence. That might start with a simple coffee chat, a shared interest, or volunteering alongside someone. Over time, those connections can lead to recommendations, insights into openings, and long-term support.
Networking is also about integration. It helps you not only to find work but to build a life. Being part of a community, giving back, and sharing interests all make Gothenburg feel more like home.

Why is networking important?

It’s also worth noting that networking does not end once you get a job. Your network continues to be valuable for advice on career development, starting a business, or even personal matters such as education for your children. Think of it as your long-term support system.

Authenticity is critical. Networking works best when you connect over shared interests. Many newcomers worry that Swedes may be reserved. But conversations flow easily when you bond over topics such as baking, sports, or literature. Over time, these authentic connections can lead to professional opportunities.
Volunteering and mentorships can be transformative. Being part of a project allows others to see your skills in action, creating references that go beyond your CV. Unexpected doors can open once you take part in community and professional networks.

In short, networking is not about quick wins. It is about building trust, sharing, and staying engaged. And in Gothenburg, the opportunities to do so are plentiful.

5. Resources and support in Gothenburg

The Gothenburg region has built a strong support system for international jobseekers.

The region is also home to major employers in sectors such as automotive, life sciences, ICT, logistics, and green tech. Keeping an eye on company career pages, as well as on industry news, will help you spot opportunities early. 

Explore our Sectors & Industries

6. A word on culture

While much of the job-search process is about documents and networking, culture plays a major role too. Swedish workplaces value flat hierarchies, collaboration, and trust. During interviews, it is important to show not only your expertise but also your ability to work in a team. Humility and confidence go hand in hand: be proud of your achievements, but avoid exaggeration.
Work–life balance is also deeply ingrained. Employers in Gothenburg expect employees to be dedicated during working hours, but also to value their time outside work. This balance is a selling point for many internationals who choose the region.

Moving forward

Landing a job in Gothenburg is not only about sending applications – it is about understanding the local market and aligning your approach. A short, tailored CV, a complete LinkedIn profile, and an active network will take you far. Add to that the resources available through Business Region Göteborg and International House Gothenburg, and you have a clear path forward. With the right preparation and support, your next opportunity may be closer than you think.