Applying for a job
In this page you will find information about how to apply for a job. Below, you can read more about

job applications
the CV
the job interview
references

Applying for a job
In Norway, you need papers to prove your skills and your experience when you apply for a job. All diplomas, certificates and job references should be translated into Norwegian. Click here to read more about documentation and translation.

If you want to apply for a job that has specific professional requirements, you must document that you have the necessary educational background. Also, Norwegian language skills are usually a requirement.

You must be active in finding a job. It may be a time-consuming process, and mostly there are many applicants for one position. The employer makes the final decision on who gets the job. If you want to apply for an advertised position, you can call the employer to know more. Write down your questions before you call, and have pen and paper at hand.

At NAV lokal you can check out advertised vacant positions, use a PC or talk to a counsellor about jobs and/or education and training. Also, there are jobseeking courses which can help you with the process of finding a job. It is also possible to have a training position in a place of work.

NAV Intro provide assistance to job-seeking immigrants and refugees who need to have their situation clarified and need theoretical and practical training and work experience You can go for a test and an interview at NAV Intro but you must first register at your local office.

Written application
The advert will usually state that you must apply in writing. It takes time to write a good job application! Get someone to help you if you are not sure how to do it.

A job application must contain the following items:

· which position you are applying for
· who you are
· your educational background
· your work experience
· why you are applying
· what you can contribute in the position

Make sure you have read the job advert thoroughly before you write an application.
Make sure you understand every word.
Make sure you have the skills they are asking for.

The advert will usually state clearly what is required, i.e. what you must have or know to be eligible for the position. A specific certificate, diploma or experience may be required.

In the advert the employer may also ask for skills that are wanted, but not required. Perhaps your background is just as adequate even if it doesn't match exactly what the employer is asking for?

Be accurate when you write the application, and also when you write the address on the envelope. Use a PC or your best handwriting!

The local employment office/NAV or job centres in your district (bydel) can assist you in writing your application.

On the website of Unginfo in Oslo you will find an example of a Norwegian job application.

The webpages for "Karrieresenteret" at the University of Oslo contain some examples for more experienced jobseekers.

CV
It is common to enclose a CV or a resume with your job application. A CV (curriculum vitae) is a short description of your life. It gives information about your work experience, where and how long you have worked. Also write down your educational background: which schools you have attended, what exams you have taken, and when. If you want, you can also add language skills, courses and certificates, and other interests and activities you are engaged in.

A CV can be written in a number of ways. The important thing is that it is short and gives a good overview of education and work experience. If you have had many jobs, start with the most recent. With a good CV, an employer will easily see what you can do. The employer will use both the application and the CV in deciding who to call for an interview.

If you are going to write a CV, it may be helpful to have some examples at hand. Choose among the following: CV1, CV2, CV3, and CV4

More examples on how to write a CV can be found on European CV.
Here is a Norwegian version.

The job interview
If the employer finds your application interesting, you may be called for an interview. The interview may be decisive as to who gets the job. An employer will usually interview many applicants.

If you are called for an interview, prepare well! Find more information about the workplace and think about questions you might want to ask. It is OK to write down questions and bring them to the interview. Also bring your application and CV with you.

There will usually be a number of people present at the interview. It may be an executive leader, another leader, a secretary, and often someone who represents the employers or the trade union.

Ask about tasks, but do not dwell too much on payment. You can discuss salary and working hours if you are offered the job.

References
It is important to give references when you apply for a job. A reference is a person who can tell an employer something about you. It may be a former employer, a teacher or someone else who knows you well. The reference should not be a relative. Write down the name, address and telephone number of the reference(s), preferably also position and place of work. Do not forget to ask if he or she is willing to be a reference for you!

Last modified 27/12/2007