Networks and immigrant labor market integration

Research has shown that contacts play an important role in job finding. The foreign-born on average have a significantly weaker position in the labor market and are likely to have more limited networks compared to natives. This project explores the emergence of networks among immigrants and investigates the importance of different types of contacts for labor market entry and future careers. In this project, two related questions are explored; we will (i) partly describe the emergence of networks for those born abroad and, (ii) partly examine the importance of different types of contacts in finding a job.

The first sub-question will be elucidated by identifying contacts that arise through the establishment program (registrations and activities at the Employment Service in Sweden), training efforts (e.g. SFI), participation in regular training and work. We will also identify family members and neighbors. By describing the growth of different types of networks after the time of immigration, we will be able to give a picture of the type of contacts that are made during the first time in Sweden.

The second sub-question answers the question of what type of contacts are of greatest importance when foreign-born are looking for work. Networks that arise through program participation at the Employment Service, training (e.g. SFI) or contacts with actual workplaces (via internship, subv. employment, regular employment, etc.)? Or are other types of contacts more valuable? Family and neighbors for example? And what does the development look like over time? Are a certain type of contacts more significant during the first time in the country? And what happens in the long run?