Understanding Finnish Work Culture – Insights for International Jobseekers

Image: Marjaana Malkamäki, KEKSI. All rights reserved.

Navigating the job market in a new country can be a challenging effort. One of the factors that can significantly influence your success as an international job seeker in Finland is understanding of the local work culture. According to the yearly recruitment study done by Duunitori, one of the most important factors influencing recruitment decisions, as in previous years, was how well the candidate fits into the workplace culture (1). Some companies can worry that newcomers do not understand Finnish workplace norms, which can prevent them from recruiting employees with an immigrant background (2).

To stand out in the recruitment process, it is important to understand what employers value and expect so that you can bring the right things to the table when you apply for a job. Additionally, understanding the work culture helps you act appropriately and meet expectations throughout the job search process and in the workplace itself.

The Main Characteristics of Finnish Work Culture

The Finnish work culture can be described as punctual, equal and direct in its communication style. A strong work ethic and practicality are qualities that are highly valued by Finns. Self-direction and honesty are highly demanded, and words carry a lot of weight in Finland. (3,4,5).

Punctuality: Finnish society places a high value on punctuality. This applies to everything in society, from public transport to business life. Meetings start exactly at the scheduled time, not a minute past. It is considered rude and unprofessional to be late. Arriving a bit early is always a good practice. This way you will demonstrate respect for others’ time and commitment to the job.

Equality: According to Finnish law, all kinds of discrimination at workplaces are prohibited. It is illegal to treat people differently because of their religion, gender, sexuality or nationality. Many companies also understand that promoting diversity, equity ja inclusion, i.e. DEI, is not just good for the employees, but also gives a competitive advantage and is good for business. (4)

Flat organisational structure: Equality and modesty are deeply embedded in Finnish culture. In most workplaces, the organization is very flat, and people work on a first-name basis, even with their bosses. Titles such as “Sir” or “Madam” are rarely used, whether in person or via email – maintaining a respectful tone is sufficient. Employees at all levels are encouraged to communicate directly with each other, and teamwork and collective problem-solving are common ways of working in Finnish companies.

Self-direction and autonomy: Due to the flat organisational structure, employees are encouraged to take the initiative and be responsible for their own tasks and projects. Managers usually trust employees to complete their work independently without constant supervision. Employees are expected to take ownership of their work, motivate themselves, and continuously seek opportunities for improvement. This level of autonomy can be surprising to newcomers. Furthermore, in Finland, making mistakes is not the end of the world or something you need to hide. Learning from your mistakes is highly valued. However, employees should communicate with their managers when they need support or face challenges they cannot solve on their own.

Honesty and directness in communication: Finns are known for their honesty and transparency. This direct communication style may sometimes be perceived as rudeness by those from other cultures. Meetings are usually focused on getting straight to the point rather than engaging in small talk and efficiency is valued over politeness and niceties. This can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, especially if the focus is purely on the problems without balancing the message with positive feedback. Finns see it as pragmatic to address issues directly and consider it normal for positive aspects to remain unspoken.

Work-life balance: Despite strong work ethics, Finns do not generally appreciate sacrificing personal well-being for work. Many Finnish companies offer flexible working hours, allowing employees to start and finish their workdays at times that suit their personal schedules. (7). Flexible working has been embedded in Finland’s working culture for more than two decades (8). The typical Finnish workday is shorter than in many other countries, with an average of around 7.5 hours. Overtime is not typically expected, and employees are encouraged to leave work on time.

Smoother Integration through Understanding of Cultural Nuance

By understanding and adopting the specific features of Finnish working life – from punctuality and flat hierarchies to trust, autonomy, and work-life balance – you will improve your chances of finding a job and succeeding in your new role. Adapting to a new culture can be also a rewarding experience that broadens your professional and personal perspectives.

However, it’s important to remember that every company also has its own culture and values. Before applying for a job, carefully read the company’s website and job advertisement to understand what is valued in this specific company.

Here are a few fail-safe tips that will work in any Finnish company:

1. Be punctual: Always arrive on time or slightly early for meetings and appointments.
2. Communicate openly: If you face any challenges, discuss them openly with your manager.
3. Take initiative: Show proactivity by suggesting improvements and taking charge of your tasks.
4. Treat everyone equally: Show respect to all people, regardless of their title, gender, age, race, political views, or any other aspect of their identity.
5. Appreciate your mistakes: If you make a mistake, admit it, own it and treat it as a learning experience.

Understanding the Finnish work culture is a step towards a meaningful career in Finland. Here efficiency meets equality and work is balanced with personal life.

Sources:

1. Duunitori 2024. Kansallinen rekrytointitutkimus 2024. URL: https://duunitori.fi/rekrytointi/rekrytointitutkimus (Accessed 24 July 2024)
2. Yle News 2019. All Points North #39: Breaking into the Finnish job market with Taina Susiluoto and Eve Kyntäjä. Julkaistu 8.2.2019. URL:https://yle.fi/uutiset/osasto/news/all_points_north_39_breaking_into_the_finnish_job_market_with_taina_susiluoto_and_eve_kyntaja/10637383​(Accessed 25 July 2024)
3. InfoFinland 2024. Finnish working life. URL:https://www.infofinland.fi/work-and-enterprise/finnish-working-life (Accessed 24 July 2024)
4. TEK Tekniikan akateemiset. Finnish working culture. URL: https://www.tek.fi/en/services-and-benefits/work-life-in-finland/finnish-work-culture (Accessed 24 July 2024)
5. Raunio, M. & Säävälä, M. 2017. Workaholic or easygoing? Interpretations of National Culture in Industries with Immigrant Workforce in Finland. Finnish Yearbook of Population Research, 51,41–60. DOI: https://doi.org/10.23979/fypr.56873
6. Niemi, L. 2024. Yhdysvaltalaisoikeiston mollaama henkilöstöpolitiikka on Elisassa ja Nordeassa arkea. Artikkeli. Helsingin Sanomat. Julkaistu 20.7.2024. URL: https://www.hs.fi/talous/art-2000010570150.html (Accessed 24 July 2024)
7. Work in Finland. Work-life balance in Finland. URL: https://www.workinfinland.com/en/why-finland/living-in-finland/work-life-balance/ (Accessed 24 July 2024)
8. Savage, M. 2019. Why Finland leads the world in flexible work. URL: https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20190807-why-finland-leads-the-world-in-flexible-work(Accessed 25 July 2024)

Author

Riia Hoppania works as a Specialist in the Continuous Learning team at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences. She is currently developing career services for Metropolia’s international degree students. Riia has several years of experience working as a Career Coach in Metropolia’s SIMHE services and in different collaboration projects with employment services. She is experienced in coaching job seekers with different backgrounds, especially immigrants with higher education.