11 Jul The Complete Guide To Internships in Sweden
You’re a student or recent graduate, hungry for global experience and the edge it can bring to your future career. You’ve got a dozen tabs open, researching the best places to intern abroad, and you keep coming back to Sweden.
Here, the landscapes of Viking sagas meet the sleek lines of modern design, and an internship experience can bridge the gap between the ancient and the ultra-modern.
Why Choose Sweden for an Internship?
Sweden’s work-life balance is legendary. Short working hours, unparalleled parental leave policies, and a culture that values personal time as much as professional achievement provide a refreshing contrast to the high-intensity slog elsewhere in the corporate world.
Swedish companies are often leaders in their fields – just a few examples include Spotify in music streaming, IKEA in furniture retail, and Ericsson in telecommunication technologies.
For those interested in sustainability, know that it’s more than just a buzzword in Sweden; it’s a way of life. Interning in a country committed to reducing carbon emissions and investing in renewable energy means being part of a work culture that genuinely values and implements green practices.
Interning in Sweden gives you the chance to learn from the best and potentially open doors to a global career. The Swedish internship scene is also highly competitive, but with the right preparation and guidance, you can secure a place in this dynamic job market.
And don’t forget, Sweden’s history of immigration and its policy of inclusivity have resulted in a diverse society. This multicultural fabric enriches every aspect of life, from the boardrooms to the fikas (coffee breaks) and makes sure that you’ll find a community that feels like home, no matter where you’re from.
Last but not least, Sweden is a gateway to Europe. Situated in the heart of Scandinavia, Sweden provides easy access to the rest of Europe.
What to Expect When Interning in Sweden
Here are a few things to keep in mind during your internship in Sweden.
1. Swedish Work Culture Demystified
The Swedish work environment is renowned for its flat hierarchies and emphasis on teamwork.
Respect for work-life balance is deeply ingrained, and it’s not uncommon for interns to enjoy the same liberties as full-time employees, such as flexible working hours and generous vacation allowances.
2. Language and Communication
The lingua franca of business in Sweden is overwhelmingly English, and many Swedish people are proficient in the language.
That said, learning a few Swedish phrases can go a long way in integrating into the local culture and showing your willingness to engage. Some companies may even offer Swedish language courses to their interns.
3. Social Etiquette and Customs
Social customs in Sweden place a high value on individual space and autonomy. It’s customary to respect personal boundaries and to avoid any behaviors that might be construed as invasive.
Introduce yourself with your full name, and remember handshakes are the norm for both men and women in professional settings.
Swedish social gatherings are enjoyable but often follow a structure, with clear start and end times. Arrive on time, respect the host’s wishes for shoes on or off (it’s a thing), and be prepared for a fair amount of personal space. Swedes are friendly but typically warm up slowly, so be patient; the connections you make will be genuine.
4. The Daily Life of an Intern
Your daily routine will depend on the nature of your internship. You might be based in an office in one of Sweden’s vibrant cities, shadowing professionals in engineering labs, or working with wildlife in the Lapland wilderness.
Swedes tend to be reserved and value straightforward communication. Expect online calendars chock-full of tasks and objectives, but don’t be surprised if there aren’t many formal meetings to discuss them. There’s a strong sense of autonomy.
There’s also a great deal of collaboration. The word Fika, synonymous with Sweden’s coffee and cake break, speaks to the importance of collaboration and building relationships. It’s not merely a pause to recharge but a cultural institution that promotes informal discussion and team bonding.
5. Public Holidays and Leave Entitlement
Know your rights regarding public holidays and the leave you’re entitled to. Sweden enjoys several public holidays, and the concept of ‘leave entitlement’ (which includes both sick leave and vacation) is quite different from many other countries.
6. The Higher Cost of Living
Sweden, particularly a major city like Stockholm, is known for being a bit on the expensive side (though often considered to be lower than in the United States). However, with smart budgeting and taking advantage of student discounts, particularly on public transport and at many cultural venues, living on an intern’s salary is perfectly doable.
Once you’re in Sweden, you may want to open a bank account to help you manage your finances, too. Several large international banks have branches in major cities, and they often offer specialized packages for expats and students.
Can I Do an Internship in Sweden?
Sweden is incredibly open to international talent and regularly tops the charts as one of the best places in the world to work and live. The Swedes love their work, but they love their leisure and the quality of their lives even more.
And with help from Absolute Internship, you have a partner that can guide you through the process, making your Swedish internship not just a dream but a very tangible reality.
We’ll guide you through the entire process, from application to placement, and provide every ounce of support you need along the way. We provide interns with opportunities in a variety of industries, from business and marketing to tech and fashion. You could have the opportunity to work in some of Sweden’s most exciting companies.
With Absolute Internship, an internship in Sweden will not just be a line on your resume; it’ll be a life-changing experience that sets the stage for an incredible future.
FAQ
Do interns get paid in Sweden?
Some internships in Sweden are paid, although the stipend may not be as high as a full-time salary, while others, called “praktik” are associated with academic programs and are not. Pay varies depending on the industry, location, and company size, with interns in Sweden sometimes offered a stipend that covers living expenses and allows for a comfortable standard of living. However, most short term internships are generally unpaid.
Can I work in Sweden as a student?
If you are a citizen of a non-EU/EEA country, you are allowed to work in Sweden up to 20 hours per week during the semester, with no restrictions during the summer months, between June 1 and August 31. EU/EEA citizens have the right to work without restrictions.
How to find summer internships in Sweden?
Start your search by browsing internship databases, checking with your university’s career services, and directly contacting Swedish companies you’re interested in. Be proactive and apply early, as summer internships are often in high demand.
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