{"id":46967,"date":"2025-09-19T10:39:11","date_gmt":"2025-09-19T07:39:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ekonomit.fi\/?p=46967"},"modified":"2025-09-19T10:40:29","modified_gmt":"2025-09-19T07:40:29","slug":"supporting-international-talent-in-finland-insights-from-the-international-steering-group","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ekonomit.fi\/en\/blog\/supporting-international-talent-in-finland-insights-from-the-international-steering-group\/","title":{"rendered":"Supporting International Talent in Finland: Insights from the International Steering Group"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The International Steering Group of Suomen Ekonomit gathered for the first time on 28 August 2025 to discuss how the union can better support international students and graduates in their transition into working life, as well as how to strengthen the current support system for members already advancing in their careers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The meeting brought together five international participants representing different regions of the world, diverse genders, perspectives, and career stages, alongside key personnel from Suomen Ekonomit. This mix of voices ensured that the first steering group meeting was grounded in inclusivity and set a strong precedent for the work ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What Internationals Need<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Surveys and interviews show that language learning remains one of the top needs for internationals. Many members find the Finnish labour market difficult to navigate\u2014from job postings available only in Finnish to \u201chidden jobs\u201d filled through networks rather than open recruitment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Participants expressed frustration at job applications where advertisements are not multilingual. Even if applicants speak Finnish, they often feel excluded when vacancies are not advertised in English, leaving them unsure whether companies genuinely welcome English CVs and cover letters or are committed to integrating foreign talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Networking and \u201clocal know-how\u201d were also highlighted as crucial but difficult to access for newcomers. Simple steps, such as calling employers in advance to ask questions, can improve job prospects, but such practices are often unfamiliar to internationals. Practical training, mentoring, and accessible career services are therefore vital, and need to be marketed directly to members, regardless of their employment situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Barriers in the Workplace<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Even when internationals secure jobs, challenges remain that can prevent them from feeling fully welcomed and integrated. Concerns were raised about workplace discrimination and power dynamics, with many internationals feeling unable to speak up for fear of repercussions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discussions also touched on what is considered best practice when facing workplace issues. While the recommended step is often to contact the labour union and workplace representatives, many immigrants and foreign professionals are unaware that such protection and support even exist. Although transparency and accountability are highly valued in Finland, many internationals felt that problems are often hidden or overlooked by those who are supposed to uphold those values the most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Role of the Union<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Unions can play a stronger role in supporting internationals by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n