Step-by-step guide to the IKEA application process

It’s fantastic that you’re interested in joining us here at IKEA. Wondering what you need to do? You’re in the right place. Here we explain how you can apply to join the ever growing team of IKEA co-workers. And our tips will help you whizz through with flying colours.

Two IKEA co-workers in IKEA uniform enjoy a coffee together in the staff canteen.

Your next job in six steps. No user manual needed.

At IKEA we recruit without the hoo-ha. We’re looking for people who know how to get things done and don’t make things more complicated than they need to be.

1. Apply for a vacancy

Found a nice vacancy? Then you can apply immediately. First go to the vacancy portal and create your profile. Don't forget to upload your resume. A motivation letter gives you the opportunity to introduce yourself and to tell us what your motivation is. We are interested in what makes you unique.

2. Pre-screening

Our recruiters screen all incoming applications and assess which applications best match the vacancies. You will receive a response to your application within 1 week.

3. Getting to know you

We know that you are much more than your resume, which is why we want to get to know you. We will now contact you by telephone to find out whether we have the same expectations of the vacancy.

4. Interview

Are we both still enthusiastic after the telephone conversation? Then you will be asked (depending on the position you are applying for) to complete a short assessment. We also schedule a follow-up meeting. In most cases, we will schedule a personal job interview with your future manager in one of our stores, our service office or an online interview. Take this opportunity to share your motivation and ask questions about your future position. Remember, it's okay to be nervous, it just shows that this job is important to you.

5. Offer

Congratulations! We are enthusiastic and are happy to make you an offer. Now it's time to make your decision. We will contact you to share and discuss our offer. You will also receive this offer in writing so that you can read it carefully and make an informed decision. Of course we hope you say 'yes'. When we make an offer, we strive for equal pay for men and women. We make sure we pay fairly, based on your experience and qualifications. At this stage we will also do all background and reference checks.

6. Onboarding

As soon as you have given us the green light, we will make sure that everything is administratively arranged, so that you can get off to a good start on your first working day. During your onboarding at IKEA, you will be welcomed by colleagues and you will learn everything about IKEA as a brand and company, your new team and other useful information. Everything you need to feel at home as an IKEA employee.

An IKEA co-worker holding a yellow IKEA bag comes down the stairs to greet customers.

FAQ on how to get a job at IKEA

The application process can often be a source of stress and sometimes you’ll be unsure of where you stand. To make things easier, we answer the most common questions here. Hopefully this will relieve some of the strain so that you can be yourself.

Select a business-like font and keep your layout simple. Provide clear information on the following:

Your main skills and qualities

Your work and other relevant experience (voluntary work, say)

Your education

Be sure to highlight specific skills and experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for and check that all the dates are correct.

No work experience yet? No need to worry. Mention the experience you’ve acquired in your studies or as a volunteer.
A cover letter is not a requirement, but we do recommend you write one. It’s an opportunity for you to present yourself and give the recruiter a clear picture of your background and your reasons for applying. If you do write a cover letter, be sure to tailor it to your application by explaining why you’re interested in that specific job at that specific IKEA site. Your cover letter is your best chance to make a positive impression and show what makes you unique.
It depends on the job you’re applying for, of course, but generally you’ll be asked to explain how you would act in such and such a situation. So try to remember situations in which you had to call on your skills and experience, such as making decisions, working in a team, solving problems or getting a message across effectively.

We are a company whose actions are guided by clear values, so we’re curious about your values. We want to know what you find important and why you make certain decisions, in work and in your private life.
We’ll ensure you receive everything you need ahead of your interview, whether it takes place in-person or online. If your interview is to be held in Microsoft Teams we’ll email you detailed instructions for downloading the Teams app and a link to the virtual meeting room.

For on-demand HireVue video interviews you’ll receive detailed instructions from HireVue, including support team contact details. HireVue is a tool used by recruiters and HR managers to set up online real-time interviews on demand. You don’t need to download anything.
Check your equipment: test your camera and mic. Test your online connection to check there’s no buffering. If you’re using headphones, check they are properly hooked up and you have audio in and out. Think about the device you want to use – computer, smartphone or tablet? If you go for a smartphone or a tablet, ensure the app is installed ahead of the interview and check the battery is charged (or plug it in).

But the main thing is: relax! You’re not alone. Your IKEA interviewer is on your side.
At IKEA we do our very best to optimise accessibility and give all applicants equal opportunities – including people with a disability. We want everyone to be able to access and participate fully in our recruitment process. That’s why we try to identify and remove as many potential obstacles as possible. Did we miss something? Let us know! Do you require certain facilities? Okay. Just let us know in advance by email or phone.

Ready for a new adventure?

Take the time to check out all our vacancies. Found the perfect fit for you? Don’t leave it too long. Things can move really fast here. And we always like talking with people who want to help us create a better everyday for people at home.

See all available jobs