Ten Tips For The Perfect Swedish Cover Letter

16 Apr 2013

Wondering how to write a cover letter that will convince employers in Sweden they've found the candidate they're looking for? The Local asks a Swedish HR expert about crafting a winning letter.

Wondering how to write the perfect cover letter that will convince Swedish employers they've found the candidate they're looking for? A Swedish HR expert offers some important tips in the latest instalment of JobTalk Sweden, our series offering insights into working in Sweden.

While putting together a winning CV is critical for finding a job in Sweden, a cover letter that really stands out can often be the difference between a callback and rejection.

"Recruiters probably won't spend more than 30 seconds reviewing your application, so you've really got to make sure your letter is targeted to the company's needs if you want to make it past the first threshold," Charlotte Ulvros, head of marketing at job board StepStone tells The Local.

Not only does the cover letter give jobseekers the chance to tell prospective employers a little more about themselves, it can also help their future boss understand how their experience is a great match for the advertised position.

According to Ulvros, Swedish employers don't want to see letters that are more than a page long. They should also emphasize the results you've achieved at previous positions.

"Everything is about results. The more you can quantify what you've accomplished, the more recruiters can be sure you are a candidate who understands the importance of results," she says.

Another thing to remember is how to address the person to whom you are writing.

"In Swedish you don't use Mr. or Mrs. Just use the contact person's first name. If no contact name is given in the advert, then simply write a smart opening that mentions the position itself," Ulvros suggests.

"Also - remember to put in your full contact info in your personal letter (even if it appears in CV) and make sure the layout matches that of your CV - that way you will look more 'on the ball'."

Of course, those aren't the only secrets to a winning Swedish cover letter.

Source: http://www.thelocal.se/jobs/?site=tlse&AID=47350#.UWzRNqLqHSk