Create your Norwegian-style cover letter in a few minutes
The søknad (or søknadsskriv) is the Norwegian cover letter. It accompanies your CV when you apply for a job and plays an essential role in the recruitment process in Norway.
Unlike the traditional formal cover letter, the søknad stands out in several ways:
In Norway, first names and informal address are the norm, even in a professional context. Never use formulas like “Dear Sir or Madam” or “I beg to remain your most obedient servant”. A simple “Med vennlig hilsen” (Kind regards) is enough.
I have hired and been hired in Norway. The biggest mistake foreigners make? Writing a letter that is too long and too formal. Norwegians want to know what you can concretely bring. No waffle, no empty phrases. Get straight to the point, be honest, and show that you know the company.
-- IngridHalf a page to one page maximum. Norwegian recruiters read dozens of applications: get to the point.
In Norway, sincerity is a core value (the famous Janteloven). Don't oversell your skills, stick to the facts.
Show that you have read the job advert and that you know the company. Generic letters are spotted immediately.
Unlike in some countries, qualifications count for less than practical experience and the results you have achieved.
The tone is much less formal than you might expect. No “Dear Mr Director”. A “Hei” followed by the first name is common.
If you speak Norwegian (even a little), say so. It is a major asset. If not, show your willingness to learn.
“Dear Sir or Madam, further to your advert published on the Finn.no website on 15 January, I have the honour to submit my application for the position of developer. Holder of a Master's degree in computer science from the University of Manchester... ”
“Hei! Jeg soker pa stillingen som utvikler hos Equinor. Med tre ars erfaring innen fullstack-utvikling og en sterk interesse for energisektoren, tror jeg at jeg kan bidra positivt til teamet deres. ”
“Awaiting a favourable reply from you, I beg you to accept, Sir or Madam, the expression of my most distinguished regards.”
“Jeg ser frem til a hore fra dere og stiller gjerne til et intervju. Med vennlig hilsen, Jane Smith.”