Consultant, outplacement

What does an outplacement consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

An outplacement consultant supports individuals who have been laid off or are facing a career transition. The role involves providing professional guidance, coaching, and practical support to help clients find new career paths or employment. Tasks often include career planning, CV review, interview training, and advice on education and networking. The consultant works closely with both clients and companies, typically within consulting firms, HR departments, or as an independent contractor. The work is usually office-based, but meetings can also take place digitally or remotely, offering flexibility but also requiring strong self-management and customer service skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for an outplacement consultant has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, rising in the following year to 47 600 SEK, which is an increase of about 3.5%. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 49 900 SEK, an increase of nearly 5% compared to the previous year. This salary growth reflects increased demand for HR and transition skills, especially during periods of organizational change and restructuring. The market has also been influenced by more organizations recognizing the value of offering professional support during layoffs, strengthening the profession's position and salary levels. Differences between men and women persist, although the gap is slowly narrowing as awareness of equality issues within the HR industry increases.

Outplacement consultant salary – full overview

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 300 SEK
• Average salary for women: 49 100 SEK/month
• Average salary for men: 52 900 SEK/month
• Women earn: 93% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as an outplacement consultant, a post-secondary education in HR, personnel science, behavioral science, or similar fields is usually required. Many also have supplementary courses in coaching, mentoring, or organizational psychology. Practical experience in recruitment, transition work, or personnel matters is highly valued. Further training and certifications in coaching or career guidance can be advantageous and provide a competitive edge.

• Post-secondary education: 3 years or more in HR, personnel, behavioral science
• Certifications: Coaching, career guidance, mentoring
• Practical experience: Recruitment, transition work, personnel issues
• Prerequisites: Good communication skills and understanding of the labor market
• Tips: Consider courses in conversation techniques and employment law

Common benefits and compensations

Outplacement consultants are often offered competitive benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pensions, and flexible working hours. Other common compensations include skills development, bonus schemes, and extra vacation days. Occasionally, subsidized travel or remote work options are available, making it easier to balance work and private life.

Competition and challenges

The competition in the outplacement field is relatively high, especially in metropolitan areas where many consulting firms operate. Challenges include building trust with both employers and clients, as well as managing sensitive transition processes professionally. The market is affected by economic cycles, which can cause fluctuations in demand for services. Digitalization and changing labor market conditions require continuous skill development and adaptability. Additionally, there is an increasing focus on gender equality and diversity, so consultants need to be attentive to different individuals' needs and backgrounds.

Tips for aspiring outplacement consultants

To succeed as an outplacement consultant, it is beneficial to combine strong communication skills with a genuine interest in people and their development. A structured approach facilitates handling multiple clients simultaneously, while flexibility is key to adapting to different situations and personalities. Being attentive and empathetic helps build trust and create security during transition processes. Networking actively and staying updated on labor market trends is also important. Good self-leadership and prioritization skills are essential, as is taking initiative in developing your own competencies and obtaining certifications in coaching or HR-related fields.

Key facts about Outplacement Consultant

• Education level: Post-secondary education, 3 years or more
• Work environment: Office-based, often with flexible arrangements
• Typical work form: Consulting assignments via agency or own business
• Job openings in the profession: 758
• Future prospects: Medium opportunities, demand expected to remain stable according to the Employment Service

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years as an outplacement consultant, opportunities open up to advance to senior consultant, coaching manager, or take a leading role within HR or transition services. Some choose to start their own consultancy or specialize in areas such as organizational development, leadership coaching, or employment law. The forecast from the Employment Service indicates that the labor market for HR and personnel specialists is balanced, with medium opportunities for employment and demand remaining unchanged over the next five years. This suggests stable competition, with the profession's importance expected to persist as transition needs continue to be relevant in the labor market.

Frequently asked questions about Outplacement Consultant

• What is the salary of an outplacement consultant?
  - The average salary is 49 900 SEK per month, with variations between 40,500 SEK and 58,600 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an outplacement consultant?
  - Usually, a post-secondary education in HR, personnel science, or behavioral science is required, often supplemented with coaching certifications.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for outplacement consultants?
  - Women earn approximately 93% of men's salaries, with average salaries of 49 100 SEK for women and 52 900 SEK for men.
• What are the job responsibilities of an outplacement consultant?
  - Responsibilities include coaching, career guidance, CV review, interview training, and support during transitions.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service assesses the opportunities as medium, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What benefits are common for outplacement consultants?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, occupational pensions, flexible working hours, and skills development.
• Are there many job openings in the profession?
  - Yes, currently there are 758 job openings within the profession of HR and personnel specialists.