Organizing your workday

Have you found a job but are struggling to adjust to working life? 

Below you can learn more about the average Finnish working day and get some tips to help you adjust to Finnish working life.

General information 

Finland's average working day is 7 hours and 45 minutes, including a 30-minute lunch break. If you work more than 6 hours, you are entitled to a break of 30 minutes. It is common in Finland to take your lunch break 11.00-14.00. However many Finns eat lunch starting at 11.00.

Employees are expected to work only during working hours, and you do not need to reply to work calls or emails outside of working hours.

In general, Finland has a relatively low hierarchy at work. When speaking with colleagues or even a manager or supervisors, refer to people by their first names.  

Punctuality

In Finland, punctuality is essential. You are expected to be on time; even one minute is too late. If you have a meeting that starts at 9.00, it is good to show up around 5 minutes early. 

Time management, independence, and responsibility 

In Finland, an employee is responsible for the working tasks they are assigned. If you cannot complete a working task, please inform your colleagues and supervisor as soon as possible. 

Many positions may require a blend of independent and collaborative work. If you have trouble navigating your working tasks, you must ask questions. It is okay not to know everything initially, but be proactive and ask questions right away when starting a new position

Tips for starting working life

When organising your time, you will have times when you are busier and times when you have less pressing tasks to tackle. Utilising your less busy time to ideate, plan and organise is in important part of one's work day. An average working week can be comprised of slower and more intense periods.

Below, you can find some tips for navigating work life:

• Prioritize Tasks: At the end of each workday, create a priority list for the next day. Setting goals and preparing for your next work day can help you stay ahead of your tasks.
• Establish a Routine: Setting a daily routine that aligns with one's personality and needs is important. It may take time to understand what works best for you, but finding your rhythm at work can help you complete tasks on time and unlock your creativity.
• Identify Your Most Productive Time: You may have flexible working hours depending on the position. Consider when you work best and when you are most productive.

Career Planning 

Haaga-Helia's Career Services is here to help our students navigate the Finnish job market, prepare documents for their job applications, and prepare for interviews. 

• Learn more about Haaga-Helia's Career Services
• Visit JobTeaser, Haaga-Helia’s Online Career Center
• Book a personal career counseling appointment