Outplacement consultant

What does an Outplacement Consultant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Outplacement Consultant supports individuals who have been laid off or are transitioning from their employment, often on behalf of employers offering career transition support. Tasks revolve around career advising, resume review, interview coaching, and guidance regarding the job market. The consultant helps clients identify their strengths, set career goals, and navigate recruitment processes. The work environment is usually office-based but can also include digital meetings and workshops, and it is common to work both independently and in teams with other HR and personnel development specialists.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for Outplacement Consultants has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, which increased to 47 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.5% over three years, and the trend indicates continued positive salary development within the profession. The increase is partly driven by an increased need for transition services amid organizational changes and labor market mobility. The demand for experienced consultants with deep HR expertise and strong advisory skills has contributed to rising salary levels.

Outplacement Consultant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 300 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women earn: 49 100 SEK/month (93% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 52 900 SEK/month

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming an Outplacement Consultant typically involves a university degree in personnel science, psychology, HR, or related fields. Employers often seek candidates with experience in advising, recruitment, and labor market knowledge, as well as understanding organizational changes. Practical experience from HR or consulting is highly meritorious.

• Formal education: University degree in personnel/HR, psychology, or behavioral sciences (3–4.5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in career counseling, coaching, or transition work
• Work experience: Internships or previous work in HR, recruitment, or transition support
• Skills: Communication skills, ability to analyze labor markets and individual competencies
• Recommendation: Engagement in networks and ongoing professional development

Common Benefits and Compensation

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexible working hours, and remote work options are often offered. Some employers also provide further training, subsidized health insurance, and bonus programs linked to performance or assignments.

Competition and Challenges

The competition among Outplacement Consultants is moderate, with the number of vacancies reflecting a balance between supply and demand. The profession requires high competence in HR and advising, and the labor market is characterized by stability but not growth. Challenges mainly involve staying updated on rapid labor market changes and meeting clients' individual needs professionally. Consultants are also expected to handle sensitive conversations and complex transition processes, requiring patience and empathy.

Tips for Aspiring Outplacement Consultants

To succeed as an Outplacement Consultant, it’s beneficial to combine strong communication skills with a genuine interest in people and their development. Being attentive and empathetic helps build trust with clients in often challenging situations, while analytical skills facilitate mapping competencies and career paths. A proactive approach and ability to take initiative are highly valued by employers, especially in consulting roles where independence is key. Continuing education in HR and labor market trends is an advantage, and networking within the industry can open doors to new assignments. Flexibility and adaptability ease interactions with various companies and individuals. Finally, being solution-oriented and patient is essential to support clients throughout the transition process.

Key Facts about Outplacement Consultants

• Education level: Usually university degree in HR or behavioral sciences
• Work environment: Office-based or hybrid with digital meetings
• Demand: Moderate, with a balance between supply and need
• Number of job openings: 758 in the personnel and HR specialist group
• Important qualities: Empathy, analytical ability, communication skills

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years, an Outplacement Consultant can advance to senior advisory roles, project manager for larger transition assignments, or become an HR manager within larger organizations. Other career options include specialization in leadership development, change management, or establishing their own consulting business. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for personnel and HR specialists, the employment opportunities are assessed as moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over five years, meaning the profession remains stable, but competition may be significant for the most attractive positions.

Common Questions about Outplacement Consultants

• What does an Outplacement Consultant earn?
  - An Outplacement Consultant has an average salary of 49 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, sector, and education.
• What education is required to become an Outplacement Consultant?
  - Usually, a university degree in HR, personnel science, psychology, or related fields is required.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What is the job market like for Outplacement Consultants?
  - The job market is stable with moderate opportunities and a balance between supply and demand.
• What are the tasks of an Outplacement Consultant?
  - Tasks include career counseling, resume review, interview training, and support during transitions.
• What qualities are important in the profession?
  - Empathy, good communication skills, and analytical ability are central qualities.
• What does the future look like for the profession?
  - The outlook is unchanged, with continued demand for outplacement services, especially during organizational changes.