If you are looking for employment in Finland, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this article, we will provide an overview of the job market in Finland, workplace culture, major recruitment agencies and job sites, typical CV structure, and job application process. We will also cover the process of transferring qualifications from your home country to Finland.
Job Market in Finland
The job market in Finland can be quite competitive, particularly in certain industries such as IT and engineering. However, there are still opportunities available in a variety of industries, including healthcare, education, and tourism. Many expats find work in teaching English, working for NGOs or international organizations, or in the technology sector.
Salaries in Finland can vary widely depending on the industry and location. In major cities such as Helsinki, salaries tend to be higher than in rural areas. The minimum wage in Finland is currently set at 9.22 euros per hour.
Workplace Culture in Finland
The workplace culture in Finland can be quite informal, with a relatively flat organizational structure and emphasis on collaboration and equality. It is important to be punctual and reliable, and to communicate clearly and honestly with colleagues and managers.
Finnish and Swedish are the official languages of Finland, so proficiency in Finnish or Swedish may be required for some jobs. However, many companies also use English as a working language, particularly in the technology sector.
Recruitment Agencies and Job Sites in Finland
There are several recruitment agencies and job sites in Finland that can help you find employment. Some of the major recruitment agencies include:
- Barona: https://www.barona.fi/
- Adecco Finland: https://www.adecco.fi/
- Manpower Finland: https://www.manpower.fi/
Some of the major job sites in Finland include:
- Monster: https://www.monster.fi/
- Indeed: https://www.indeed.fi/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/
Typical CV Structure in Finland
The typical CV structure in Finland is similar to that in other countries, with a few key differences. Here is an example of a typical CV structure in Finland:
- Personal information: Name, contact information, date of birth, nationality
- Education: List your academic qualifications, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the institution, degree obtained, and date of graduation.
- Work experience: List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Include the name of the company, job title, dates of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities.
- Skills: List any relevant skills, such as language proficiency, computer skills, or specific industry knowledge.
- References: Include the names and contact information of two or three professional references.
Job Application Process in Finland
The job application process in Finland typically involves submitting a CV and cover letter to the company or organization you are interested in. Some companies may also require you to complete an application form or provide additional documentation, such as academic transcripts or certificates.
If your application is successful, you may be invited to an interview, which could be in person or conducted via video call. Interviews in Finland tend to be relatively informal, and it is important to be prepared to discuss your skills and experience in detail.
Transferring Qualifications in Finland
If you are seeking employment in Finland and have qualifications from your home country, you may need to have them recognized in Finland in order to be eligible for certain jobs. The process of transferring qualifications in Finland is overseen by the Finnish National Agency for Education.
To have your qualifications recognized in Finland, you will need to submit several documents, including your academic transcripts and certificates, as well as proof of identity and residency. You may also need to provide a sworn translation of your documents into Finnish or Swedish. The Finnish National Agency for Education will review your qualifications and determine whether they are equivalent to those required for the profession you are seeking.
In some cases, you may also need to take additional courses or exams in order to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a particular area. For example, if you are seeking to practice medicine in Finland, you may need to take a licensing exam in addition to having your qualifications recognized.
It is important to note that the process of transferring qualifications in Finland can be time-consuming and may require the assistance of a lawyer or other professional. It is also important to research the specific requirements for your profession in Finland in order to ensure that you have all the necessary qualifications and documentation.
Finding employment in Finland can be challenging, but there are still opportunities available in a variety of industries. It is important to have a good understanding of the job market, workplace culture, and application process in order to increase your chances of success. By following the tips and information provided in this article, you can be well-prepared to start your job search in Finland.