Health advisor

What does a health advisor do? – Tasks and work environment

A health advisor works to promote health and prevent illness by providing personalized advice on nutrition, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle. The profession often involves conversations and guidance both individually and in groups, focusing on motivating and supporting clients toward sustainable changes. Health advisors are found in corporate health services, wellness centers, schools, municipal projects, and sometimes in their own business. The work environment varies from office and consultation rooms to activity areas and gyms, requiring good ability to meet people from different backgrounds and needs.

Salary development over time

The profession of health advisor has experienced positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 SEK per month, increasing to 34 700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 35 000 SEK. The total increase from 2022 to 2024 amounts to approximately 9.6%, indicating a clear upward trend. The salary increase can be linked to a gradually increasing awareness of health in society, as well as a growing demand for qualified advisors with broad expertise in wellness and lifestyle change. At the same time, salary growth is somewhat more cautious than in some other health and care professions, possibly due to competition and the structure of the labor market.

Health advisor salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 35 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 44,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 210 SEK/hour
• Men's average salary: 36 500 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 34 600 SEK/month
• Women earn: 95% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data on salary differences between regions is unavailable

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a health advisor typically involves post-secondary education in wellness, health pedagogy, or a similar field. Many programs combine theory about health and lifestyle with practical components such as conversation techniques and supervision. Certifications and supplementary courses in areas like nutritional advice or motivational interviewing are often advantageous and can enhance competitiveness in the job market.

• Formal education: Post-secondary education in wellness/health pedagogy (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Examples include nutritional advice, coaching, or motivational interviewing
• Internship: Often included, providing valuable work experience
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, sometimes with a focus on health or sports
• Additional courses: Online training and short courses can be advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Health advisors are often offered wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional development through courses and training. Some employers also provide gym memberships, subsidized lunches, or access to corporate health services. In some positions, additional vacation days or bonuses may be available, especially if the role involves responsibility for larger projects or leadership.

Challenges and competition

The competition for jobs as a health advisor is currently relatively high, resulting in an oversupply of qualified individuals nationwide. However, forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that demand is expected to increase over the next five years, which could improve employment prospects and potentially positively influence salary development. Challenges include standing out in the job market through specialization and further education, as well as staying updated on new health trends and research findings. The work also requires good ability to motivate clients and manage one's own workload, especially during busy periods with many clients or projects.

Tips for aspiring health advisors

To succeed as a health advisor, it is beneficial to combine strong communication skills with a genuine interest in helping others. Being attentive and empathetic facilitates conversations and motivational work, while an analytical mindset makes it easier to identify appropriate interventions for each individual. Flexibility is important as tasks vary and can include everything from individual counseling to group lectures or project management. Continuously furthering your education and staying updated on new methods within health and wellness is crucial for long-term success. Self-leadership and initiative are valued by employers, especially in roles where independently managing projects or building a client base is required.

Key facts about Health Advisors

• Education level: Post-secondary education in health/wellness
• Work environment: Varies between offices, consultation rooms, and gyms
• Typical work form: Employed or self-employed within wellness
• Demand: Limited opportunities today, but forecasted increase over 5 years
• Special skills: Nutritional advice, conversation techniques, and project management are advantageous

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a health advisor can develop into more specialized roles, such as nutritional counselor, health coach, or project leader for larger wellness initiatives. Opportunities also exist in education, supervision, or starting a own business. The forecast from the Employment Service shows that the job market for wellness consultants and health pedagogues, which include health advisors, is currently characterized by limited opportunities and a surplus of applicants. However, demand is expected to increase over five years, creating more job opportunities and opening new career paths in both public and private sectors. Currently, there are 237 job openings nationally in the field.

Common questions about Health Advisors

• What is the average salary of a health advisor?
  - A health advisor has an average salary of 35 000 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a health advisor?
  - Post-secondary education in wellness, health pedagogy, or similar is usually required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 34 600 SEK and men 36 500 SEK per month, meaning women earn 95% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like for health advisors?
  - The job market is currently limited, but demand is forecasted to increase over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• What career options are available for a health advisor?
  - Opportunities include specializing in nutritional advice, health coaching, or taking on leadership roles within wellness projects and training.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a health advisor?
  - The highest salary is 44,600 SEK and the lowest 29,800 SEK per month, depending on education, gender, and sector.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Wellness allowances, flexible working hours, gym memberships, and professional development are common benefits.