3 steps to find a job in Finland

Most foreigners moving to Finland find it difficult to get a job without knowing the Finnish language. Employers in Finland can be quite strict in hiring because of rigid law regulations and the high costs that come with it.

But being employed in Finland, like in most countries, can be in different ways. You can work as a regular employee, a freelancer who works for multiple employers, or become an entrepreneur and get your own clients and build your business.

Step 1: Public employment offices and associations

Most immigrants will have to enter the Public Employment and Business Service office (TE-toimisto) where they will be directed to an official who will help them find a suitable work, training, and/or studies. These officials will help the immigrants write a cover letter and build a curriculum vitae or a resume. During this time, they can also apply for the unemployment benefit to sustain their living expenses before landing a job in Finland.

If you are an immigrant who just moved to Finland, it is necessary to bring your work and study certificates from your own country. If you are under 30 years old, you will be forwarded to Navigatorn (Ohjaamo), which is a One-Stop Guidance Center to assist you in employment, studying, housing, and everything else for free.

Starting you own business is also another type of employment. In Finland, you can be a private trader, own a limited liability company, or have general or limited partnerships. The best place to start to find more information is the yrityssuomi.fi where you will find more information about starting different kinds of companies, how much do they cost, and what are the legal requirements you need.

Step 2: Online job platforms

Popular online platforms for general jobs are te-palvelut.fi and duunitori.fi. If you are looking for a manager or higher positions, then the right websites to check are linkedin.fi, monster.fi, and oikotie.fi. The employers also use these platforms to look for the right employees. You might want to add a general CV on your profile. Here are some tips on how to get into the Finnish job market.

Step 3: Direct contact

Most Finnish companies are SMEs which means that the CEOs are easy to contact. At the same time, with the help of other networking sites, ie LinkedIn, getting hold with most people isn't that difficult anymore compared to the old days.

Now, let's start with the basics- learn the Finnish language.

Mae N.