Maria Vilina
Moving to Sweden as a spouse came with both joy and uncertainty. I initially kept my remote job in another country, but when that came to an end, I found myself at a crossroads: it was time to look for work in Sweden.
Finding my place in Sweden's job market
I knew I wanted to do something meaningful, so I applied only for the jobs I was genuinely interested in. Just three weeks into my search, I landed my first interview—on only my third application. I was optimistic. That first process included three interviews and a test task. Everything seemed to be going well… until I got a rejection. It came as a shock.
After that, things got quiet. For two long months, I kept applying—this time widening my scope a bit, considering adjacent industries and new career paths.
From rejections to real growth
One thing I appreciated during this time: even when I didn’t get the job, I almost always received a response. People seemed to notice the effort I put into my applications and often took the time to reply thoughtfully. That gave me a bit of strength to keep going.
Then a friend told me about International Citizen Hub Lund. I had never heard of it before, but I decided to give it a try—and I’m so glad I did. I didn’t just find useful job search tips; I found a real turning point.
For me, the Hub and the Kick-Start Career Program offered something deeper:
- A strong foundation in Swedish work culture, expectations, and mindset—which gave me real confidence.
- A new perspective: that cultural differences are not barriers but strengths.
- A sense of community—I was not alone in this.
- A powerful reminder that in Sweden, things take time. You can do everything right and still have to wait. And in that waiting, you can also enjoy freedom and growth.
- Practical tools—from crafting a strong LinkedIn profile to using AI for a smarter job search.
Every session left me buzzing with ideas. I’d call my mom afterward just to share all the insights I had learned!
My breakthrough moment
Shortly after finishing the course, I got a job. It was my second interview during this six-month journey, and this time—it was a yes. Ironically, just as I reached the final stages of that process, two more interview invitations came in. But when I received the offer, I accepted immediately. I just knew it was right.
A sweet coincidence confirmed that for me: on my way to the final interview in Malmö, I ran into a fellow International Citizens Hub graduate, Megan. She looked at me and said, “You’ll get the job.” And she was right.
Patience pays off
Today, I work as a marketer at a small startup in Malmö, in a beautiful old building in the city center, with original windows and a vintage elevator. I love everything—the job, the people, the pace, and the spirit of the company. It feels like exactly where I’m meant to be.
My advice to others? Be patient. This is how things work in Sweden—you often have to wait. But use that time well. Put care into every application. Make it personal. Don’t forget what you’re good at, and don’t be afraid to grow in the waiting.
Ěý
/Maria Vilina
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