Networking Remotely: How to Grow Your Professional Circle in Sweden
Building a professional network is essential for remote workers in Sweden. The country’s strong collaborative work culture values relationships, trust, and mutual respect, making networking an important aspect of professional success. While traditional in-person networking can sometimes be challenging for remote workers, Sweden’s digital-first approach provides unique opportunities to expand your professional circle online. Here’s how you can effectively grow your network in Sweden, with practical tips and uniquely Swedish examples.
Leverage LinkedIn and Swedish-Specific Platforms
LinkedIn is a global hub for professional networking, and its importance in Sweden is no exception. Start by optimising your LinkedIn profile to highlight your skills, experiences, and interests. Tailoring your profile to include Swedish keywords relevant to your industry can also make you more discoverable to local professionals.
In addition to LinkedIn, Sweden has its own niche platforms, like Nyfikna, which connects curious professionals across industries. This platform reflects the Swedish cultural emphasis on learning and collaboration. Engaging in industry-relevant LinkedIn groups or Swedish networking forums can help you find local opportunities and connections tailored to your field.
Join Industry-Specific Communities
Sweden boasts a thriving ecosystem of digital communities for remote workers and freelancers. For instance our very own Remote Work Sweden, a vibrant Facebook group for remote professionals, and Stockholm Startups, a meetup community bringing together entrepreneurs and innovators in Sweden’s startup scene.
Joining these groups enables you to participate in discussions, attend virtual events, and stay updated on the latest trends. Active engagement in such communities is a great way to make your presence known and meet like-minded professionals.
Attend Virtual Networking Events and Webinars
Sweden offers numerous virtual events through organisations like Svenskt Näringsliv (The Confederation of Swedish Enterprise) and various regional chambers of commerce. These events often feature panels, expert talks, and breakout sessions designed to encourage interaction.
Platforms such as Eventbrite and Meetup frequently list virtual networking opportunities tailored to different industries. For example, tech professionals might join webinars hosted by Sweden IT Forum, while freelancers may find value in sessions organised by Freelancers Union Sweden.
Explore Virtual Co-Working Spaces
Sweden’s co-working spaces have adapted to cater to remote workers, offering virtual memberships that include access to online networking events, workshops, and exclusive content.
If you are in the capital, then Epicenter Stockholm offers a mix of virtual and physical networking opportunities with access to a diverse community of entrepreneurs, providing a community, learning platform, and meeting arena for local change-makers to accelerate their growth and innovate with impact.
Or you might prefer the vibe of United Spaces, which has 4 sites now, and provides online collaboration tools and events that help remote workers connect with professionals in Sweden.
Virtual memberships can be an excellent way to engage with Sweden’s professional community without the need for a physical office, and can offer great flexibility too as your activity, mood, and workflow varies.
Use Remote Networking Tools
Remote-friendly tools like Lunchclub and Shapr have gained popularity in Sweden for fostering meaningful professional connections. These platforms use algorithms to match individuals based on shared interests and goals, enabling remote workers to meet new contacts through video calls.
When using these tools, remember that Swedish professional culture values sincerity. Take the time to personalise your conversations and explore shared interests to build trust.
Incorporate Swedish Culture into Your Networking Approach
Understanding Swedish work culture can greatly enhance your networking efforts. Swedes value trust, authenticity, and meaningful connections. Instead of diving straight into business, consider arranging a casual virtual “fika” (a traditional coffee break) to get to know your contact better. This simple gesture can set the tone for a strong professional relationship.
Engage with Swedish Industry Leaders and Content Creators
Following Swedish entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry influencers on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter can help you stay connected to your field. For example, tech enthusiasts might follow Daniel Ek (CEO of Spotify), while design professionals could engage with leaders in Stockholm’s creative scene.
By sharing and commenting on their posts, you not only learn from their insights but also open doors to connecting with others in their network.
Stay Updated with Swedish Business and Remote Work Trends
Keeping up with Sweden’s business news can provide valuable context for networking conversations. Subscribing to newsletters from The Local Sweden or following Dagens Industri (a leading Swedish business newspaper) can help you stay informed about local trends, economic updates, and industry developments. This knowledge demonstrates your commitment to understanding the Swedish market, making you a more appealing connection.
Remote networking in Sweden may initially seem daunting, but the country’s openness to digital solutions makes it easier to connect with professionals across industries. By leveraging the tips above and adapting your approach to fit Sweden’s unique work culture, you can build a meaningful network that supports your professional growth as a remote worker.
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