sweden - has anyone worked there?

[kdawg]

Hi,

'm a (fully-qualified) Architect from Ireland with 6 years experience. I went to Sweden two years ago as my long-term girlfriend is Swedish, but lasted about a year before i had to return home because work was so hard to find. I had a basic grasp of the language and a wealth of experience and a good portfolio but couldn't get past interviews. I left the country with the belief that the industry there is pretty sluggish and with the archaic labour laws, a lot of swedish architects are out of work. I had several major contacts at the KTH who despite their efforts couldn't get me work. I did get 3 months in one place but was appalled at both; how insignificant the architect seemed in the running of a job ; and the low level of salary.

Does anyone have a similar story? I'm looking to maybe go back as my girlfriend still lives there and need to think long and hard on my strategy this time round.

Many thanks,