First job in Finland? Job search training helps you get started
The atmosphere in the classroom is focused. Job application forms are open on computer screens, and the instructors’ words are listened to carefully. Savo Vocational College’s job search training involves verbalising one’s own skills to employers, which is also challenging for Finns.
The training targets immigrant students. Its goal is to familiarise people with the rules of Finnish job searching and to reduce barriers to applying for jobs while they are still studying.
“Students are highly eager to find employment. Often, they already have work experience from other countries, but Finnish practices and ways of job searching are new to them. We assist in helping them get started”, says Study Counsellor Juhani Lantto.
Photo: Juhani Lantto advises Olena Rybachuk on filling out a job application form. Next to her, Danylo Syvkov is filling out his own form.
The training covers the entire job search process, from work-related vocabulary to writing applications and practising interview exercises. Simultaneously, key concepts such as working hours, net salary, and shift schedules are learned.
The students also compare their previous work experiences with Finnish working life culture. The discussions highlight, for instance, the rules of the work community, punctuality, and initiative.
Applications for real jobs
One training session specifically covered summer jobs in the cleaning service sector. The group of students nearing graduation completed applications on the websites of Servica and SOL under the guidance of Juhani and Immigrant Counsellor Timo Pekkarinen.
Photo: Timo Pekkarinen discusses writing about one’s own strengths with Ly Duong. Next to her, Shel Kyaw searches for information on her phone.
Before filling out the applications, the students had prepared a brief introduction of themselves – a kind of elevator pitch. It was now used to answer the question: Why should you be hired?
“The applicant must be able to justify why the employer should select them and why they want the role. We assist students in articulating their motivation and strengths”, Timo explains.
The training also reminds you of practical details. For example, the hygiene passport and occupational safety card should be clearly emphasised in the application.
“Even small things can make a difference. When the application has been carefully filled in, and one’s own skills are clearly stated, the opportunities improve significantly”, Juhani emphasises.
The training is in clear Finnish, and if necessary, the trainers will also explain things in English. The students support each other and use, for example, the “100 strengths” material to find words to describe their own qualities.
The job search training is part of the activities of the Talent Hub Eastern Finland network, which aims to promote the employment of international students in Eastern Finland. The members of the network are the University of Eastern Finland, Karelia, Savonia, Riveria, Sakky, and YSAO. The project is co-funded by the European Union.
Text and photos: Tiina Weman
