In Sweden, one in four recruitment attempts fails — even as the country faces one of the highest unemployment rates in the European Union and a wave of layoffs. The findings come from a recent survey by the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise, a major employers’ organization.
Companies are currently having to reject projects, postpone investments, and slow their growth because they cannot find the qualified staff they need.
“It’s one of the great paradoxes of the labor market,” says Kristina Cunningham, an expert in labor and education policy and author of the survey.
Six out of ten companies have attempted recruitment in the past six months, with mixed results. Recruitment activity is at its lowest level in ten years, likely reflecting the weak economy. At the same time, it remains relatively high in a longer historical perspective, indicating that demand for skills persists even in a subdued economic climate.
The findings also show that almost seven in ten companies (69%) cite a lack of relevant professional experience as a barrier to recruitment, and 46% report a shortage of candidates with the right education.
What’s behind the talent shortage in Sweden
According to the survey, one of the main causes is a mismatch between the education system and labor market needs. Cunningham emphasizes the need for educational reform: “It is primarily about the education system keeping pace with the needs of the business community. Too many education programs do not lead to jobs. In addition, a more effective labor market policy is needed, one that matches the jobs that exist.”
How employers are fighting the talent shortage
Many companies are taking responsibility by training new hires despite the associated costs. They are also placing greater emphasis on soft skills, which can be decisive when formal qualifications are lacking. Valued soft skills and personal traits include attitude and commitment (58%), responsibility (46%), the ability to work independently (28%), collaboration (20%), adaptability/flexibility (17%), communication (10%), and ambition (10%).
Employers are also taking steps to secure future talent. They collaborate with upper secondary schools, Komvux (a form of secondary education for adults in Sweden), vocational colleges, and universities.
In addition, companies participate in fairs and are active on social media to broaden recruitment opportunities and showcase the available professions and career paths.
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