Mallory’s Thoughts
Stockholm
I spent two nights in Stockholm prior to meeting everyone in Skelleftea to squeeze in a bit more time to explore since friends that went last year said they didn’t really get much time to and also to try adjusting to the time difference. I was happy to visit Stockholm once again!
Business in Stockholm
We started off with heading to Saab, a defense company. They have a long, interesting history and think “it’s a human right to feel safe” (indeed!). They have four areas: aeronautics, dynamics, kockums, and surveillance. Lars gave us so much information (and funny stories) about Saab and his time at the company. It seems to be very difficult for the company to deal with politics and keep people safe while still making a profit.
The next day was a day I assume everyone was waiting for: our visit to Spotify! It was great learning more about the company. They seem to have an amazing work culture where everyone works together as a band. Anna also explained how they don’t just say they will help a cause, but actually take action which is so different from other companies who just simply donate some money and call it a day. The office had a game room (Daniel’s Gaming Room), a karaoke room, cute eating areas, and a roof top where we got to see the view of the city. Although there’s all these nice things to entice people to work there, I would like to learn more about the benefits and ask Anna if 6 months of maternity leave is truly enough as a woman that’s curious about motherhood.
After Spotify, we headed to Challengermode. I wasn’t sure what to expect from the esports platform but it was a really interesting visit! Robel seems to be very smart and business savvy with all of his ventures he has done. He thinks being nice is an underrated quality and has an interesting requirement for hiring individuals: whether he’d be comfortable with them dating his brother or sister. Robel also gave good advice that entrepreneurs make a mistake when they create something they haven’t even used themselves. He also said Americans are friendly and good communicators…I’m happy he’s had good experiences with Americans, but…I’m not sure I agree with him.
Jamie’s Thoughts
Saab
After a short flight from Skellefteå to Stockholm- with a quick stop by our hotel- we got right on our way for our next business visit. Saab, “Protecting your way of life.” Previous to this visit I hadn’t really considered Saab anything more than a typical car company. I don’t know how I missed all the defense contracts. We all have blind spots I suppose. I was excited to hear about the NLAW tank killers being used to defend Ukraine, as well as collaboration with Boeing on the T-7A for the USAF.
Spotify
The next day we headed on to Spotify where we met with HR VP Anna Lundström. It was an interesting experience and I can see how working for Spotify would be amazing. My biggest take away is that I need to learn Swedish so I can read BOLD: Strategic HR in a new era. This is a book written by the Spotify HR Lead Team, but is currently only available in Swedish. I’m very interested in how Swedish companies, and especially those that are globalized, organize their Human Resources strategies.
ChallengerMode
We then made our way to ChallengerMode– the company working to make esports accessible to all people. This is a company I’d never heard of, but I was so impressed with their idea and strategy and it already looks like their hard work is paying off. I have have gamed in the past, and even had a Twitch channel for a short time, so it was inspiring to see innovations within the gaming industry when it seems like Micro-transactions and money have taken over.
Unexpected Concert
I ended my day with a little work. I had researched libraries and found the City Library in Stockholm. The architecture was really gorgeous and I thought it’d be a great place to get some work done. I took a few photos, then went into one of the antechambers to sit and write. After a while, I noticed people lining up on the second floor. I thought it was a bit odd, but kept working. Until they started singing. A chorus was practicing for their concert later that afternoon- so really I got to attend two concerts. It was such a great experience for a bit of work, and a wonderful way to end my second day in the city.
