We spoke to our Finnish-speaking colleague Miia Paavonaho, recruitment consultant at Multimind, and asked her a few questions about how she thinks about recruiting Finnish candidates.
-What arethe advantages of being Finnish when recruiting Finns?
The biggest advantage is of course the language - being able to communicate in one's mother tongue makes it much easier when I recruit Finnish candidates. Having an interview in Finnish also makes the candidate feel more comfortable and it lowers the barriers at the same time. We can "connect" on a more personal level, which makes it easier for candidates who are nervous about the interview. As I was born and raised in Finland, and know the cultural differences, I know how to approach different Finnish personalities. They are one of the most important, and biggest advantages when I recruit Finns.
- What are the main differences between Finnish, and Swedish business?
In Finland, I feel that we are more "Straight to Business" than in Sweden. We have fewer meetings, and make faster decisions in a work process. There is a different approach and culture around meetings, we are not afraid to take more responsibility. Decisions can be made more on an individual level. Swedes also seem to be more afraid of conflict. In Finland, I feel we are less afraid of expressing our opinions, we separate the private from the work. In Sweden, I feel that the boundaries between one's personal opinions, and one's professional side flow together.
- What advantages, can Finnish jobseekers take advantage of?
One thing I've noticed is that Finns are highly valued here in Sweden - the Swedes impression of us is that we are a hard-working people, and that we do our job well. Being Finnish in Sweden is a big advantage because there are many jobs in Stockholm where you have to be Finnish-speaking.
- What tips can you give Finnish candidates, looking for jobs in Stockholm?
Dare to speak more English! As a Finn, it is very easy to be critical of your language skills, and we often want to know the language "perfectly". But it is more important that you take the step to speak more, and it is even better if you choose to communicate in Swedish. In Stockholm, there are an incredible number of temporary employment agencies. MultiMind is one of them that can help you find a job. Dare to contact a recruitment agency! In Sweden, personality is also valued more when looking for a candidate. Dare to show who you are, and your personality. Be active, and update your profile on LinkedIn often to show recruiters, and employers that you are open to new job opportunities.
- What do you miss most, about Finland?
The first thing I think of, apart from family, and friends, is the sauna (laughs). We don't have a sauna next to our apartment, or cottage. And every time I go to Finland, that's one of the first things I do - go to a sauna. Preferably every day! Then I miss being able to speak more in my mother tongue. Going into a shop, or making a call to customer service, it's a whole different thing to be able to communicate about everyday things in your mother tongue.