When my wife joined the very first cohort of mentees at the Stavanger branch of “Sammen om en jobb” in 2022, it was more than just an opportunity for professional growth—it was a lifeline. As a new immigrant to Norway, she found herself navigating a completely unfamiliar job market. The sessions provided by the local manager, along with the guidance of her mentor, proved to be invaluable. Through workshops, networking events, and one-on-one mentoring, she learned how to adapt her skills to the Norwegian job market. Thanks to this support, she secured her first job in Norway, a turning point for our family.

Even if this post is not really talking about marketing nor customer experience, I wanted to take some time to put the spotlight on this association that may help you to find a job in Norway. 

Mission and Approach

The primary aim of “Sammen om en jobb” is to ensure that everyone arriving in Norway has the opportunity to utilize their skills in a relevant job.

The organization operates several mentorship programs across Norway, targeting various groups, including young immigrants, refugees, and women, to enhance their job-seeking capabilities and foster personal and professional growth. Their programs are based on the belief that mentoring relationships can help transfer valuable skills and knowledge while also bridging cultural gaps between mentors and mentees.

Key Programs and Activities

“Sammen om en jobb” offers multiple programs tailored to specific needs:

  1. Mentorship Programs: The core of “Sammen om en jobb” lies in its mentorship initiatives. These programs are designed to support immigrants in building their professional networks, developing relevant skills, and navigating the job market in Norway. For instance, the Mentor Program in Rogaland matches mentees with mentors from diverse industries, offering participants the chance to gain insights into the Norwegian labor market and develop essential skills needed for employment. In 2023, about 37% of the participants in Rogaland found relevant jobs during the program period, highlighting the program’s success and impact.
  2. Entrepreneurship Mentoring: This program focuses on aspiring immigrant entrepreneurs. It pairs them with mentors who guide them through the complexities of launching and sustaining a business in Norway. Participants receive support in developing business ideas, building entrepreneurial skills, and navigating the regulatory landscape, which ultimately boosts innovation in regions like Oslo.
  3. Networking and Events: Regular workshops, networking sessions, and intercultural discussion groups form an integral part of the organization’s activities. These events are designed to build social capital, which is crucial for job-seeking immigrants who often lack the necessary networks in Norway. The organization collaborates with local businesses and municipalities to host these events, creating opportunities for mentees to meet potential employers and learn from industry experts.

Collaborations and Impact

“Sammen om en jobb” collaborates with various local businesses and public entities to maximize its impact. Partnerships with companies like Sval Energi and Worley Rosenberg have proven effective in connecting mentees to real job opportunities and professional networks. For instance, in one of their mentorship programs with Sval Energi, 7 out of 11 participants secured relevant employment, demonstrating the tangible benefits of such collaborations.

By fostering these partnerships, “Sammen om en jobb” not only supports its participants but also promotes diversity and inclusion within the Norwegian workforce. For businesses, partnering with the NGO offers a chance to access fresh talent and perspectives, thereby enhancing their own diversity and sustainability goals.

Get Involved

Whether you are a professional looking to volunteer as a mentor, a company interested in corporate social responsibility, or an immigrant seeking guidance, “Sammen om en jobb” offers a wide range of opportunities to get involved. The organization provides training and support for new mentors, ensuring they have the tools needed to help their mentees succeed. Likewise, companies can support the initiative by allowing their employees to volunteer as mentors or by collaborating on specific projects that promote diversity and inclusion.

To learn more about “Sammen om en jobb” and how you can be part of this impactful community, visit their official website.

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