Arbeidsformidlinger

Arbeidsformidlinger, or employment mediation, refers to services designed to connect job seekers with employers and to facilitate the process of finding work. In Norway the term encompasses both public and private actors involved in matching labour supply and demand, as well as the activities they undertake to support job seekers and employers.

Public and private actors

Public actors, such as NAV (the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration), provide arbeidsformidling as part of active labour market measures. Private providers include staffing agencies (bemanningsbyråer) and recruitment consultancies, as well as online job portals, that assist with job matching, screening, advice, and referrals. The mix of services offered can vary by provider and regulatory framework, and some services may be funded or subsidized by the state.

Core services

Common elements of arbeidsformidling include registration, assessment of skills and needs, career guidance, job matching, CV and interview coaching, and referrals to vacancies, internships, apprenticeships, or subsidized employment schemes. Some programs offer wage subsidies or subsidized positions to facilitate transitions for long-term unemployed individuals or groups facing barriers to employment.

Regulation and data protection

Arbeidsformidling is governed by national labour laws, anti-discrimination rules, and data protection regulations. Providers must handle personal data responsibly, obtain consent when appropriate, and ensure privacy and security in line with applicable legislation.

Impact and considerations

The aim of arbeidsformidling is to reduce unemployment and improve match quality in the labour market. Effectiveness depends on market conditions, provider quality, and alignment with active labour market policies. Potential concerns include variation in service quality, risks of bias, and privacy issues.