Finding a relevant job as an international in Norway isn’t always easy. In this article, we spoke with Nicholas Harris-Baxter, a former mentee in the “ Sammen om en jobb ” program. Today, Nick is an area and transportation planner with the municipality of Ringerike. He shares his experience, insights, and tips on how to navigate the job search process with other internationals.
Things That Held Me Back
“When I first moved here, I focused mostly on learning Norwegian,” says Nicholas. “I was only occasionally applying for jobs. I worried that I’d miss out on opportunities if my language skills weren’t good enough. Looking back, I wish I had done more of both. Practicing interviews when I only understood 30% made it so much easier when I later understood 80%!”
Sammen om en jobb
“The ‘ Sammen om en jobb ’ program changed my life,” he continues. “I remember attending my first information session, seeing the statistics on participants landing relevant full-time jobs, and hoping that could be me. A few months in, I felt less confident about my chances, but my biweekly check-ins with my mentor kept me going. They provided fresh perspectives and gave me the support I needed to refocus my efforts.”
Tips for International Job Seekers
From someone who has been there
Resume
Nicholas is convinced that the “ Sammen om en jobb ” program will help you improve your resume. His advice? Always write a personalized cover letter, and reiterate the main points in the opening paragraph of your resume to catch the HR department’s attention. Be honest—mention that you don’t have much relevant work experience in Norway. While this might not make you the obvious choice for the role, your experience outside of Norway can still make you the most valuable candidate. Here are a few examples from Nicholas’s experience:
“Do I have relevant work experience in Norway? No, I don’t. Do I love leading, coordinating, and contributing to transportation projects? Yes, I do. Would I like the opportunity to do that here in Ringerike Municipality? Of course, because Norway is my new home.”
The Law of Jante
Nicholas is familiar with the Jante Law, the Norwegian social norm that discourages boasting. “It can be tricky to navigate when applying for jobs. It’s hard to promote yourself if you’re not supposed to ‘brag,’” he explains. Instead, he suggests highlighting how you offer a unique perspective, bring new ideas, and have relevant experience—without overemphasizing personal achievements.
Not familiar with the Law of Jante? Here’s a great explanation: What Exactly Is the Law of Jante? Norway’s Unspoken Social Norms (lifeinnorway.net)
Seize Every Opportunity and Job Hunting
“Don’t hesitate to take any opportunity, even if it feels like a step back in your career,” Nicholas advises. He explains that his current boss was impressed that he had worked as a Foodora bike courier and at a Circle K. Both roles helped him learn the city layout and expand his network. “Also, apply for jobs outside Oslo,” he adds. “You may find more flexible, varied roles in smaller cities like Hønefoss, where broader responsibilities can lead to unexpected growth.”
Apply for jobs outside Oslo. You may find more flexible, varied roles in smaller cities like Hønefoss, where broader responsibilities can lead to unexpected growth.
Networking
Networking is key! Nicholas recommends attending events, talks, and breakfast meetings to learn the industry-specific terminology. Here are a few extra tips:
Add recent activities to your resume to demonstrate your ongoing commitment—it’s a great conversation starter.
Bring a notebook to jot down unfamiliar terms, and start conversations by asking questions about the topic instead of the usual “Where do you work?”
Cold Contacting
“Cold contacting can be nerve-wracking but rewarding,” says Nicholas. “My greatest success came from connecting with other immigrants or people with international experience in my field, especially those who understood the challenges of moving to Norway. LinkedIn is invaluable—use a Premium trial to research people’s backgrounds, and reach out to arrange a coffee chat with those who might empathize with your journey.”
Be Yourselves
Nicholas’ take on authenticity is clear: “Embrace your unique background! You are all an incredible asset to Norway’s workplaces, so don’t be afraid to be yourselves.”
He goes on to explain that he has a Sodastream at his desk at work, always says hi and tries to strike up a conversation in the hallways, uses an Australian rules football as a stress ball, and probably talks too much about his projects at home.
“Despite the occasional comment about the Sodastream and a bit of avoided eye contact in the hallway, everyone loves it when the sparkling water starts flowing in the afternoons! I’ve started to get to know some of my colleagues, and I love trying to describe how we play soccer back home in Melbourne.”
Take Care of Yourselves
We’d like to share a few thoughts on the importance of mental health during a challenging process.
It will happen, and you're in the best place
“Remember to take care of your mental health,” says Nicholas. “Share your highs and your lows with your mentor, share them with the others in your cohort here, and with your friends. Embrace the highs and acknowledge the lows, but try not to let them get the better of you. I think ‘ don’t give up’ was the phrase I heard most often. It got a little frustrating because sometimes all I wanted to do was give up. It’s okay to give up for an afternoon, a couple of days, or a weekend. But don’t give up completely. It will happen, and you’re in the best place.”
