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Starting a new job in Finland? Your trade union is here for you

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Blog post

Welcome to Finland and to working at a Finnish workplace. Starting work in a new country brings many unfamiliar practices, and no one expects you to understand them all straight away. Your trade union can offer information, advice and support throughout your employment, writes TEK's Daniel Valtakari.

Support as you settle into working life in Finland 

In Finland, trade unions negotiate terms and conditions of employment, protect employees’ rights and advise their members on workplace matters. You can find practical information in English about collective agreements, pay and agreements made at workplace level. No question is too small. 

You are welcome to get in touch even if you are unsure whether your question belongs with your employer, a public authority, an unemployment fund or the union. The union can listen, advise you and help you find the right source of support. 

What support is available? 

As a member, you can receive advice on your employment terms and pay, help with checking contracts, legal support, career guidance, training and assistance with workplace disputes. 

At your workplace, a union representative can advise you on the university’s practices and local agreements. Union specialists can also help with questions about fixed-term contracts, pay, working hours, family leave or unfair treatment. It is best to get in touch as soon as something starts to concern you. 

You are welcome to get in touch even if you are unsure whether your question belongs with your employer, a public authority, an unemployment fund or the union.

A community you can be part of 

The union is also a community where you can share your experiences and have a say in workplace matters. You can join meetings, vote in elections, respond to surveys, attend training and take part in events. Ask your local association or employee representative what activities and information are available in English. 

Your experience matters 

Your experience of moving to Finland and working here can help the union improve its services and representation. You can raise concerns about issues such as fixed-term contracts, career development, language requirements or discrimination. Your perspective can help make working life fairer and more inclusive for everyone. 

Your union is here for you 

You do not have to navigate working life in Finland alone. Find out which union represents your profession and contact them. You are always welcome to ask what information, advice and activities are available in English. Taking that first step can be as simple as sending a message. 

Welcome, your union is here for you too. 

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