7 Tips on how to find work in Helsinki
Are you dreaming of working in Europe? Somewhere that values work-life balance where nature is always within reach? Welcome to Helsinki, Finland’s happy capital. It’s a city where high-quality living and career opportunities go hand in hand. If you’re wondering, “Do they speak English in Finland?” Yes, we do! In fact, many companies are looking for English-speaking professionals, especially in industries like IT, marketing, and beyond!
Ronny
Local Helsinkian
Life-work
balance
Meet Ronny John, a German sales manager who recently moved to Helsinki and landed a job at a leading cybersecurity firm. His experience offers valuable insights for anyone looking to find work in Finland.
Here are Ronny’s top tips for living and working in Helsinki:
1. Finding work in Helsinki means committing to the application process
Finding a job in Finland requires a bit of ‘sisu’ (an important Finnish word, which in this case means – perseverance).
As Ronny puts it, searching for a job in another country can feel like a full-time job. He took the bold step of quitting his job in Berlin without securing a new one in Finland. Brave? Definitely. Necessary? Not always. But whether you dive in headfirst or apply while still employed, dedication is key.
Helsinki employers appreciate clarity and honesty. Keep your CV straightforward, and adapt it for each position. It’s not about sending out a hundred applications—it’s about sending a handful of tailored, high-quality ones to show that you’re serious about working in Finland.
2. Don’t take rejection personally
The job market is competitive, especially in sectors like IT and marketing. You might face rejection, but don’t let that deter you. As Ronny says, “You will get slaps on your face.” But that’s part of the journey. Take a deep breath, exhale, and start fresh. Persistence pays off in the long run. Keep your spirits high and your applications flowing—there’s something for everyone in Helsinki.
3. Clarify your motivation
What’s driving you to move to Finland? Employers in Helsinki want to know your reasons for relocating. Ronny’s motivation stemmed from his time in Finland ten years ago as an exchange student, where he fell in love with a Finnish girl who later moved with him to Berlin. He also developed a deep appreciation for Finnish midsummers and became quite the expert on mökkis (summer houses). Now, it was his turn to live and work in her country.
Think about why you want to work in Helsinki. Whether it’s the prospect of living close to nature, working in a city with cutting-edge tech companies, or experiencing life in Helsinki, being clear about your motivation will help you stay focused and determined.
Works
Helsinki
4. Ask for help – utilise the city’s free resources
Helsinki makes it easy for internationals to settle in and find jobs. One of the best resources is Welcome Helsinki a one-stop center for information on registering, taxes, and more. They also offer free online webinars and personal meetings. Ronny found their advice valuable, especially when adjusting his job applications to better suit Finnish expectations.
Welcome Helsinki
The official site of the City of Helsinki, the Welcome Helsinki website has practical information for newcomers from abroad. Find out more about everything from housing and healthcare to how to get around.
International House Helsinki (IHH)
A regional service supporting international newcomers to live and work in Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa. Whether you’re planning to move or have recently arrived, they help you settle in.
Welcome to Helsinki
The official site of the City of Helsinki, the Welcome Helsinki website has practical information for newcomers from abroad. Find out more about everything from housing and healthcare to how to get around.
Pro tip: Finnish employers value trust. For example, you don’t need to include formal recommendation letters. Just provide the names and contact details of your previous supervisors (they will call them!). IHH can guide you through these nuances to ensure your applications hit the mark.
5. Use the free resources available to find work in Finland
Finding a job in Helsinki means tapping into a range of resources. Here are some ideas to help you kickstart your search:
Helsinki Exposed
MyHelsinki campaign partnering with international companies to connect them with international job-seekers.
Work in Finland
A comprehensive site for employment information and job listings across the country.
Networking is crucial. Leverage your contacts, ask friends for leads, and stay active on LinkedIn—that’s where Ronny found his current job!
6. Embrace your uniqueness
No two applicants are the same, and that’s your strength. Ronny, a native German speaker with a knack for marketing and project management, faced challenges at first. But his persistence, paired with his unique skills, eventually landed him a role at a top Finnish cybersecurity firm.
As you navigate your job search, remember that your unique background, skills, and personality can set you apart. Be patient, stay positive, and trust that your time will come.
7. A little luck goes a long way
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of luck. Sometimes, the stars align at the right moment. After months of job hunting, Ronny’s opportunity came when a company valued his honesty and enthusiasm over his technical skills. And once you land your job, you’ll discover the generous benefits Finnish companies offer, from private healthcare to subsidised lunches and cultural activities.
I like my new employee benefits: private health care, partly paid lunches, support for sport and cultural activities. All those are rather common in Finland, I heard.
-Ronny
Local Helsinkian
Living and working in Helsinki is about embracing a lifestyle where nature, community, and innovation coexist. Whether you’re hiking in the forest after work or enjoying the city’s cutting-edge tech scene, life in Helsinki can be both exciting and calming. And if you’re wondering, “Do they speak English in Finland?”—yes, we do.
So, are you ready to make the move? Who knows, you might just meet Ronny in Helsinki!