Read the expert opinion from Kristiina Vormala, Recruitment Manager at Barona. She gives tips on how to stand out among tens or possibly hundreds of job applicants when applying for a job in Finland.
As a Recruitment Manager at Barona with over 20 years of experience, including in international recruitment, I know firsthand how competitive the job market in Finland can be. With hundreds of CVs competing for recruiters’ and hiring managers’ attention, it’s essential to know how to make a lasting impression and stand out as a job applicant. That’s why I’m here to share some expert advice on how to navigate the recruitment process and increase your chances of landing your dream job in Finland.
I will give you some insider suggestions on what to do and what to avoid throughout the job application process. From tailoring your CV to crafting an attention-grabbing application, we’ll cover every aspect and more. So, if you’re ready to take your job search to the next level and get closer to landing your dream job in Finland, let’s get started!
Job application – grab the recruiter’s attention with the first click
If you’re on your way to submitting an impressive job application, start by analyzing your own experience, as well as your own interests and motivation. When you have a good sense of what you have been doing, what you enjoy, what you’re strong at, and what has really motivated you, it is so much easier to search through potential job opportunities and apply for the position that at least partly fulfills your desires and background. When you’ve analyzed all of these factors, it is easy to be convincing – both in the application and in the job interview. You can read more about creating a good CV here.
If there is a lot of competition in your field and you want to get noticed, compare everything above with the job advert, analyze it, and start off by emphasizing your motivation. Phrases as – ‘’I would like to get this job as it is interesting and international’’, or ‘’this role is very suitable for my career path’’ – give the impression you know what you’re applying for and what you’ll end up doing, but also that you’re excited about this opportunity. The more complex and challenging the position is, the more important it is to know how to justify that you’re the most suitable applicant. The recruiter is waiting for you to describe what you’re good at. Don’t be scared to give examples. Saying ‘’I have been praised for initiative or problem-solving skills’’, for example, will always be your winning card.
Stand out as a job applicant and set yourself apart from the competition
How to stand out and get noticed as a job applicant in Finland? Explain your current situation and why you applied for the position. Reasons such as ‘’I found a good work opportunity’’, ‘’I recently graduated’’, ‘’I just finished additional courses’’, will always score high in the recruiter’s eyes. A good application is one that answers the question, “Why we shall choose you?”. Don’t forget to answer it.
A valuable technique is to mention what your main duties were and which ones you enjoyed. List what was challenging for you and how did you overcome those difficulties, what goals you had, and how did you reach them. Past predicts the future! Every recruiter is interested in your background. It helps us to create a trajectory, as we can apply the same patterns later in your career.
How to apply for a job in Finland – Do’s and Don’ts: Check out our recommendations on what do to and how to act when looking for work in Finland.
“Why should we hire you?” Learn how to respond
This is a challenging question, but nailing it is likely to be the turning point in the hiring choice. Compare your expertise and career goals to what the employer is searching for. The job description explains what the company is looking for in terms of personality and background. So, be reflective and express those specific traits that better describe you in relation to the job. And include other abilities if those are not required by the role in question.
Mention that you have the required expertise and skills (we assume you do, once invited for an interview). But do not use the identical phrases listed in the job description. Handling pressure, for example, can be easily turned into tolerance for multitasking. An excellent way to wrap up your answer is to tell us what your colleagues would say about you. This will not only show your role on the team but will prove that you are aware of your strengths. Add some real work-life examples to back up what you say, and you’re set for success. For more interview tips, check out our article 'How to succeed in a job interview in the Nordics?'
Getting recruiters’ interest in Finland – ways to be remembered
I actually like when people ask me additional questions about the position – it’s a great opportunity to stand out as a job applicant. Based on these questions, I invite candidates for interviews. Smart and appropriate questions, such as checking if your background matches the job requirements, or following-up with the recruiter if you have heard nothing for over 2 weeks, are important to show your motivation. Use this occasion to mention anything relevant to your background. But do it wisely and avoid asking questions that have already been touched on. Be as you are – negotiable, interested in the company and positions.
Remember that many recruiters don’t like being called. Therefore, don’t contact them if they don’t provide contact information or a timetable for calls.
Take the leap! Discover how to pursue your dreams in Finland and check out our open jobs in Finland.
Sending multiple job applications in Finland – best practices
The more job applications you submit, the more active you are, and the more likely you will hit the right spot. However, keep in mind that you should only apply only positions you believe are a good fit for you! Don’t apply for every open position. Instead, apply for the ones that best match your background and expertise, and tailor each job application.
If you do this, you can apply for more positions. Nevertheless, keep in mind that looking for a job is also work, and the product is yourself. Limit the time you spend job searching and don’t take rejection personally. Set time frames, such as checking job postings and submitting applications twice a week. When you get a rejection, accept it calmly and openly. If you submitted a strong application and gave it your all, it means they did not choose you because the competition was too fierce. Do not consider yourself to have failed if you did not advance farther in the recruitment process. Because the next time you go to a job interview, you may be too bitter or pessimistic, giving the impression that you’re not eager to take the role.
Take time off and rest. A suitable work opportunity will come along. Have faith that everything will be alright.