A 2024 study published in the Norwegian Journal of Social Research revealed that having a non-Norwegian name can significantly reduce your chances of being invited to a job interview.
The research, which involved sending 2,779 fictitious applications between 2016 and 2018, showed that applicants with foreign names were 32 percent less likely to get a positive response compared to those with Norwegian names, even when their qualifications were identical.
READ MORE: Which foreign job seekers face the most discrimination in Norway?
The discrimination was most severe for applicants with names linked to the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Those with names associated with Europe, America, and Russia also faced bias, though to a lesser degree.
Notably, the study found no difference in discrimination between first-generation immigrants and people born in Norway to immigrant parents, highlighting the pervasive nature of these biases.
The influence of Norwegian-sounding names
Cynthia Myrnes, a relocation expert and CEO of the Relocation AS company, knows this struggle all too well.
Reflecting on her experience of moving to Norway 16 years ago, she told The Local that, at the time, she wasn't getting any responses to her job applications – not even rejection emails.
"It felt like I was being completely overlooked," she said.
Frustrated by the lack of opportunities, she decided to change her last name to her Norwegian husband's surname.
"With the exact same CV (except for the updated last name) sent to the same employers, I started receiving interview invitations and, ultimately, landed a job. This highlighted for me the impact a name can have on job prospects," Myrnes shared.
A difficult – and personal – decision
Myrnes acknowledged that this changing your name for a Norwegian one was a personal decision and not one that should be taken lightly.
In an ideal world, it shouldn't be necessary to change your name to get a fair chance. The real problem is the systemic bias in hiring practices, which should be addressed, rather than putting the burden on job seekers to adapt.
Furthermore, the job market in Norway presents additional challenges for foreigners.
Myrnes pointed out that despite the country's low unemployment rate, competition is fierce, and many positions are never publicly advertised.
"While there's demand for specific skilled labour, many job opportunities are not publicly advertised, making access through networks critical. For foreigners with limited networks, this is a significant hurdle," she pointed out, advising job seekers to prioritise networking, attending job fairs, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn.
"Building relationships with people who can refer you or offer insights is crucial to finding opportunities."
READ MORE: What networking events are out there for job seekers in Norway?
Should you change your name?
What is really needed in Norway is a job market where people are judged on their skills, experience, and potential – not the sound of their name.
Until that happens, however, it's up to each person to decide what works best for them in their job search journey.
If adopting a Norwegian-sounding name makes you feel more confident and you believe it might help, it's an option.
But remember, this is about your personal comfort and goals.
For those still considering this option, Myrnes offered some words of wisdom as a former job seeker who actually resorted to changing her name.
"While it's not a requirement, some people, including myself, have observed better responses after adopting a more Norwegian-sounding name. However, this is a highly personal choice and underscores the importance of eliminating biases in hiring practices."
READ MORE: Four steps to take straight after you lose your job in Norway
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