Accompanying your partner on an international assignment offers both challenges and opportunities. The International Spouse Program at Swedes Worldwide helps make the journey more manageable by providing valuable support along the way. Federica Grosso - a participant in the program who relocated to Sweden when her husband joined Atlas Copco, shares her personal story and how the program has helped her.

❓How has the International Spouse Program helped you? What has been your experience with the International Spouse Program?

The biggest help for me was in relation to finding a job because I was put in contact with a great recruiting agency which helped me understand the job market. I had the chance to talk with professionals in the field and I found a job quite fast actually. Additionally, it's great to have the opportunity of being in an international network and get advice and support about the practical things of daily life (like the bureaucracy).

❓What advice would you give to accompanying spouses relocating to other countries?

One definitely needs to be open and curious. A person should attend social events, social clubs or anything that can help create a net of people around them to start feeling at home in the new country. Learning the language is definitely a big plus as well.

❓What are your key strengths, and how can you add value to an employer?

I am a super people person so my key strength is my ability to connect with people and understand them. I am also very organized, consistent in meeting deadlines - if a task is given to me it's no doubt that I will do whatever it takes to make it happen! 

Accompanying your partner on an international assignment offers both challenges and opportunities. The International Spouse Program at Swedes Worldwide helps make the journey more manageable by providing valuable support along the way. Laura Li - a participant in the program who relocated to Sweden when her husband joined Ericsson shares her personal story and how the program has helped her.

❓How has the International Spouse Program helped you? What has been your experience with the International Spouse Program?

I am so grateful for the International Spouse Program. I was lonely and helpless during the first 2 months of my arrival in March this year. I still remember my first contact with the program. That day had been tough for me, but it all turned around after that first encounter. Later, I attended a workshop arranged by the program where I got to meet four other great friends who came from different countries. We had a wonderful time talking about what you need to know when relocating to another country followed by a fantastic lunch together. Those are such treasurable memories for me coming to a new country. 

The program brings together spouses who share the same pain and frustration, providing them with much-needed comfort and support. I hope this program continues for a long time, and I am eager to participate voluntarily.

❓What advice would you give to accompanying spouses relocating to other countries?    

First, go out and try to meet people in the new country, the spouse should encourage and support their beloved ones to do so. I joined the International Spouse Program thanks to my husband who insisted that I enrol.

Second, join a program such as this to meet new friends whom you can share the pain with and find encouragement during challenging times.

Third, listen to the advice from the friends you meet in the program and try to study the language and culture of the new country. That can bring you self-confidence and enlarge your social connections.

❓What are your key strengths, and how can you add value to an employer?

The greatest contribution I might bring to any company will be my energy, ambition and a heart for new things. 

Accompanying your partner on an international assignment offers both challenges and opportunities. The International Spouse Program at Swedes Worldwide helps make the journey more manageable by providing valuable support along the way. Carolina Ogata - a participant in the program who relocated to Sweden when her husband joined Ericsson, shares her personal story and how the program has helped her

❓How has the International Spouse Program helped you? What has been your experience with the International Spouse Program?

The International Spouse Program has truly reminded me of how remarkable people are. It has connected me with others who are navigating similar journeys, sharing the same insecurities, hopes, and dreams. Through this program, I feel supported and encouraged, knowing I’m in a safe space where I can openly share my concerns and celebrate my achievements. The support and connections were a key to keeping me motivated to embrace this new chapter with confidence.

❓What advice would you give to accompanying spouses relocating to other countries?

My advice would be not to put too much pressure on yourself. Moving to a new country brings a lot of excitement, but also challenges. It’s natural to compare ourselves to others, especially with the influence of social media. But instead of focusing on what others are doing, try to embrace the unknown and use this experience to develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Every step, big or small, is progress, and each experience contributes to personal growth.

❓What are your key strengths, and how can you add value to an employer?

My key strengths lie in my analytical expertise and strategic mindset. With a background in Pricing and Consulting in Brazil, I have experience working in fast-paced environments where I learned to quickly interpret complex data and turn it into practical business insights. Additionally, I enjoy connecting with people and contributing to a positive workplace culture, which I believe enhances collaboration and overall team success. Through my skills and dedication, I wish to bring both strategic value and a collaborative spirit to my next role. 

Accompanying your partner on an international assignment offers both challenges and opportunities. The International Spouse Program at Swedes Worldwide helps make the journey more manageable by providing valuable support along the way. Namratha Bharadwaj - a participant in the program who relocated to Sweden when her husband joined Atlas Copco, shares her personal story and how the program has helped her.

❓How has the International Spouse Program helped you?/What has been your experience with the International Spouse Program?

- The International Spouse Program provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with others who were in a similar situation, offering a sense of community and shared purpose. Working on projects together helped us feel useful and supported. Additionally, it gave me my first exposure to a Swedish workplace. Through the program, I secured an internship with SVIV, which was an incredibly rewarding experience.

❓What advice would you give to accompanying spouses relocating to other countries?

- My advice would be not to worry—things will fall into place in time. It's important to enjoy the process of moving, settling down, and planning your future without unnecessary stress. There's no need to rush into finding work right away. Focus on other aspects of the transition first, and make sure to appreciate the experience. In the long run, the initial anxiety won't matter.

❓What are your key strengths, and how can you add value to an employer?

- My primary strengths lie in my adaptability and quick learning abilities. I excel at seizing opportunities and making the most of them. Additionally, my pursuit of a master's degree enhances these qualities. In marketing communications, where being proactive and conversational is key, I believe I can bring significant value, as this is an area where I naturally thrive.

Thank you, @namrathashreebharadwaj, for sharing your story and allowing us to be part of your journey!