January 8, 2021
LiU Career Support Program
During the past semester, I had the opportunity to be part of the first career support program for international students. I know that more than one student would like to start their career in Sweden, therefore, sharing my learning experience and some tips that found very useful could help to understand the Swedish labour market.
Here is a list of the topics seen in the program. If you want to see all the information, please find it here.
Session 1: Introduction
The first day is very exciting! There is a brief introduction of the staff that is going to guide you through the program and an introduction to Linköpings Science Park. Most of the companies related to innovation and technology are related to the matchmaking process that is carried out by the Science Park, therefore it’s a great opportunity to introduce yourself in the local labour market.
Session 2: CV
Knowing how to design the layout of your CV and how to write the content properly is essential. Remember than you should try to keep it on one page and highlight the skills and details that are more relevant for the job position that you wish to apply. All the info related the guidelines to create a competitive CV can be found here.
Session 3: Cover letter
The CV and the cover letter have the same relevance in Sweden. Describing who you are and what you are looking forward in the future is a great opportunity to argue why you are fit for the job. Find all the tips and details about how to write it here.
Session 4: Personal marketing
Looking for a job is basically performing personal marketing. Considering who you are as a person and how people perceive your strengths and weaknesses may be a great way to understand yourself from other perspectives. What do you bring as a person to the company? Why should they hire you? work in your own story and know yourselves, this is the best way that you can differentiate from other applications. Check all the tips here.
Session 5: Interview skills
Practice makes perfect! Learn how to introduce yourself and communicate properly to answer key questions in the interview. Know to take your time to listen and understand the company and needs for the position. Make sure to ask questions and fully understand what is the company and job about. Find more tips here.
Session 6. Final session – evaluation of whether you reached your goals
Understand what you truly want in a job. What is your career goals or how is your dream job look like? After developing all the skills and steps to find a job, make sure that you are in the right direction about what you want for your professional in the future.
This is pretty much it for now, so I hope you have found it helpful!
Wishing you all the best,
Hela.
