Your step-by-step guide to the IKEA recruitment process

We’re glad to see you’re interested. Not sure what to do next? No problem. Here’s where we show you how to apply for a job with us and join the ever-growing team of IKEA co-workers. You’ll also find lots of tips to help you sail through the process.

Two IKEA co-workers, dressed in IKEA staff uniforms, enjoying a coffee together in the staff canteen.

6 steps to your next job. No instruction booklet required.

The IKEA hiring process is pretty straightforward. After all, we’re straightforward people who like to keep things simple. Here’s what you can expect.

1. Search & apply for a job

Found a job you fancy? Great, then it’s time to get that application in. First, visit our job portal and create your profile. Don’t forget to upload your CV. Not required, a cover letter will give you the chance to present yourself and your motivation. We’re interested in what makes you unique. Congrats! You've taken the first step!

2. Resume review

Our recruiters rigorously begin reviewing each and every application as they come in. Many of our jobs are quite popular, so timing can vary. But rest assured you will get a response as soon as possible.

3. Phone screening

After a thorough review of resumes, our recruiters will reach out to candidates selected for the initial phone screening. We'll want to hear specific examples from your past experiences. That's the first step in getting to know you and how you work.

4. Interview

Almost there, so take a breath and pat yourself on the back. At this point we’d like to meet you again. We work with several different types of interviews, but you’ll typically meet your future manager in a personal job interview at one of our working locations or online. You might also have an interview with your manager’s manager. Use this opportunity to share your motivation and ask anything about your future job. Remember, it’s ok to be nervous, it just shows that the job is important to you.

5. Hiring decision

Our recruiter will let you know about the hiring decision. If you are the right candidate for the job, you will receive an offer. We will contact you to present our employment offer and discuss it with you. You will also receive it in writing so that you can read through it and make an informed decision. (Naturally, we hope you say “yes.”) When making an offer, we are committed to equal pay. We make sure that we pay fairly based on your experience and qualifications.

If you are not the chosen candidate, we will let you know right away and even help you discover other open positions that may be a better fit.

6. Onboarding

Once you’ve given us the thumbs up, you’ll be given access to our pre-boarding portal to learn more about the IKEA brand and business, your new team and other helpful information. We want you to have everything you need to prepare for your first day as an IKEA co-worker.

An IKEA co-worker in uniform and carrying a yellow IKEA bag, coming down IKEA store stairs to greet customers.

FAQ about getting your new job at IKEA

Applying and interviewing for a new job can be a bit confusing and stressful. So, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions that will hopefully make things easier and help you relax and be yourself.

To start with use a clean font and keep the design simple. Then make clear points about the following areas:

Your key skills and personal attributes

Your employment history/volunteer/other experiences

Your education

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

No working experience yet? No problem! Simply, provide your school and/or volunteer experience.
Naturally, this will vary from job to job, but in general you can expect behavioral questions asking you how you think you would act in certain situations. So, think of previous occasions where you’ve had to use skills like decision making, teamwork, problem solving or communication.

We are a values-driven company so you should also be prepared to talk about your values. We want to know what is important to you and why you made the decisions you have made, both at work and in your private life.
Why do you want to work at IKEA? Expect behavioral questions. They will help us determine how you’re a good fit for IKEA and if we’re a good fit for you. Questions change per position but always focus on how you handled various work situations in the past. So, think about it and be ready to share specific situations that you’ve been in where you had to use certain skills such as decision making, teamwork, problem solving, communication, etc.
Test your setup and make sure your camera and microphone are in working order. Test your internet connection to make sure you have a reliable connection. If you are using headphones, make sure they are connected and selected as the audio and microphone source before the interview begins. Decide which device you feel most comfortable interviewing with (computer, tablet or phone). If tablet or phone, make sure you have downloaded the app prior to the interview and that you have enough battery power (or keep your charger nearby).

But above all, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Your recruiter is your partner throughout the process.

Ready to start your new journey?

Take your time and check out all the jobs we have on offer. But once you’ve found one you like, don’t waste any time. Things move quickly around here and we’re always eager to talk to people who are interested in helping us create a better everyday life for people at home.

Browse all available jobs