Hi Maja! You graduated from the MSc programme in Managing People, Knowledge and Change (MPKC) in 2020, what have you been up to since your graduation?
After graduating in 2020, the job market was quite challenging due to the pandemic, so I initially took a summer job to stay in Sweden and continue searching for opportunities. Just a few months later, I received a call from a company I had applied to six months earlier. I landed a fantastic role at a software company, which has given me the opportunity to meet diverse and inspiring people, build lasting relationships, and immerse myself in the beauty of Sweden.
After graduating in 2020, the job market was quite challenging due to the pandemic, so I initially took a summer job to stay in Sweden and continue searching for opportunities.
I have had the chance to travel extensively, which made my professional and personal life engaging in ways I never imagined.
Could you describe your role as Customer Success Executive at Web Manuals? What can a typical day at the office look like?
Web Manuals is a SaaS (Software as a Service) company that provides software solutions for the aviation industry. As a Customer Success Executive, my primary focus is on making sure our customers have a seamless onboarding experience and managing ongoing accounts and relationships. Additionally, I oversee the onboarding of new colleagues and make sure they integrate smoothly into our team.
A typical day for me starts at around 8 a.m. with answering emails and catching up with my team. My schedule often includes a mix of internal meetings and customer calls. We always take the time to enjoy lunch together and, of course, have fika!
One of the most exciting parts of my job is the frequent travel, which keeps my work engaging and dynamic. Traveling allows me to meet clients face-to-face, foster stronger relationships and gain deeper insights into their work and how we can better support them.
What aspects of your degree programme have you found to be most beneficial in your professional life?
One of the most valuable aspects was learning to adopt critical thinking. The program taught me how to analyze situations from multiple perspectives and draw well-rounded conclusions, which has been crucial for effective decision-making in my professional life.
Furthermore, the program deepened my understanding of the complexities involved in organizational change. In the aviation industry, which is surprisingly still very traditional, implementing new solutions such as advanced software systems can be challenging. The insights I gained about the dynamics of change have enabled me to better serve our customers knowing the importance of tailored assistance and support which ultimately resulted in a more satisfying experience for them.
The program taught me how to analyze situations from multiple perspectives and draw well-rounded conclusions, which has been crucial for effective decision-making in my professional life.
Lastly, the international perspective of the MPKC programme has been incredibly beneficial. It prepared me to work in global environments, understand cross-cultural teams, and adapt to various cultural contexts. This has been particularly useful in my current role, where I interact with international clients and colleagues regularly.
What advice would you offer to recent international graduates looking to start their careers in Sweden?
Be proactive! You don’t need to wait for the job offer to appear on LinkedIn. Reach out to employers directly or send an interest letter through open applications on their websites. This can set you apart from other applicants and often gives positive results.
Showing genuine interest in the roles you apply for and taking the time to craft tailored applications, can truly make a difference.
Additionally, do your research and apply for jobs that genuinely interest you. I applied for hundreds of positions and realized I wasn't getting interviews because my motivation was too generic. Showing genuine interest in the roles you apply for and taking the time to craft tailored applications, can truly make a difference.
Lastly, familiarize yourself with Swedish workplace culture and norms. Understanding cultural nuances and demonstrating your ability to adapt to a new environment can help you integrate more smoothly and make a positive impression on potential employers. Networking is also crucial—attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with people in your field to increase your opportunities and gain valuable insights into the job market in Sweden.