Anna Lundström, is the Chief Human Resources Officer at Spotify, the world’s largest subscription music platform.
Here, as part of Music Business Jobs’ Career Advice section, Lundström reveals four top tips for job seekers in the music business, revealing what Spotify’s HR team looks for in ideal candidates…
Tip 1: Find a role that aligns with your passions and interests.
Look for roles that align with your passions and interests as much as possible. At Spotify, we’re looking for people who care about what they do. If you enjoy your work, you’ll be much more successful.
Be picky – don’t blast your resume to 10+ roles at a company just to get a foot in.
At our core, we’re fans too, and make it our business to not only discover and appreciate culture around the world, but also understand the ins and outs of the industries we operate in and how our work impacts artists and creators. A baseline awareness of how the industry works, from artist payouts to streaming trends, will help your knowledge and experience shine.
We pride ourselves on having some of the most creative minds in the business – and we want to see how job seekers will explore creativity with us and help us to deliver tangible impact.
Tip 2: Be Yourself. Unless You’re a Jerk — Then Be Someone Else.
We are big on culture. Not the fake “I love ping pong!” kind, but real-deal, values-driven teamwork. So bring your quirks, your playlists, your odd obsession with Scandinavian crime dramas (we get it) — just leave your ego at the door.
Remember, life is meant to be lived; don’t waste your time at a company that doesn’t align with your values.
Find out what’s unique about the company and job you are applying for and decide if it’s the kind of place you want to work at. Remember, life is meant to be lived; don’t waste your time at a company that doesn’t align with your values.
Tip 3: Showcase your unique skillset and experiences.
Every career path is unique. There’s no one right path to success, however you define it. It’s the unique experiences that help make every individual stronger in their role.
So, don’t just list your experience, showcase your accomplishments and how you’ve made positive impacts in previous roles. Maybe that random gig as an assistant to a circus artist taught you a skill that is just what we’re looking for.
We want to know your story and how your wins, your experiences, your learnings, your failures, all make you the right fit.
Tip 4: Be Curious & Embrace Change
We look for people who enjoy learning and are attracted to new perspectives.
Being part of the Spotify band means nurturing curiosity and welcoming (and oftentimes driving) change.
Show us your curiosity throughout the interview process and highlight how you’ve navigated change throughout your career, in school or in your life.
