If you are thinking about working in Finland and you are not familiar with the local language, this guide will help you understand how to succeed in Finnish workplaces and what kind of English speaking jobs in Finland are available.
First and foremost, English is spoken pretty well in Finland. It’s not difficult to get service in public places in English, and many workplaces are bilingual – meaning that both Finnish and English are spoken. During the last ten years, due to the demographic challenges in Finland, more and more foreign and non-Finnish-speaking employees are joining the workforce in Finland.
Finding an English-speaking job in Finland
Finland’s job market offers many opportunities for English speakers. While Finnish is the official language, English is widely used in many workplaces. Companies in technology, engineering, and academia often use English. Hotel and restaurant industry jobs are open for English speakers in most larger cities in Finland.
When looking for a job in Finland, consider these tips:
- Industry and Location: Major cities like Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, and Turku have more English-speaking jobs.
- Job Portals: Use websites like Baronanordic.com, tyomarkkinatori.fi and workinfinland.com to find jobs for English speakers.
- Networking: Attend industry events and join professional groups on LinkedIn. Networking can help you find job opportunities.
Employers in Finland value both your skills and your willingness to fit into Finnish culture. Showing interest in learning Finnish can be a plus.
Job Opportunities for English Speakers
There are many jobs available in Finland for those who speak English. Some of these include:
- IT and Software Development: Many tech companies operate in English.
- Engineering: Multinational companies often need engineers who speak English.
- Customer Service and Sales: International companies need English speakers to handle global customers.
- Tourism and Hospitality: Tourist areas need staff who can speak English. For example, majority of workplaces and Lapland actually require their employees to know English.
For more on moving to Finland for work, check out our article Moving to Finland for Work: What You Need to Know.
English language in Finland
English is widely spoken in Finland, especially among younger people and in cities. Most Finns start learning English at a young age and can speak it well. In many companies, especially those that are international or in the tech industry, English is used as the main language at work.
Even though you can get by with English, learning some Finnish can help you in daily life and make social interactions easier.
Learning Finnish
Learning Finnish can be tough, but it is worth it. It will help you integrate better into Finnish society. Here’s how to start:
- Language Courses: Enroll in courses offered by institutions like the University of Helsinki. Barona also offers Finnish courses in some cases.
- Online Resources: Use platforms like Duolingo, Memrise, and Yle’s Finnish language courses.
- Language Exchange: Join language exchange programs through websites like Meetup to practice with native speakers.
- Daily Practice: Practice with colleagues, watch Finnish TV shows, and read local newspapers.
- Social Activities: Join community events to practice Finnish and understand the culture.
For more on why learning Finnish matters, read our article How to Learn Finnish and Why It Matters.
Getting Service in English in Finland
In Finland, you will generally receive service in English, especially in cities and tourist areas. Restaurants, hotels, and major stores often have English-speaking staff. Government services and healthcare providers in larger cities also offer help in English. In smaller towns, English may be less common, so knowing some Finnish can be useful.
For tips on fitting into Finnish social life, read our article Integration Tips for Finland: Social Life and Communities.
If you're not very familiar with English, don't worry. You can still do well in Finland even if you don't speak English fluently. Many people in Finland speak English, and there are lots of international companies where you can work using English. By learning a little Finnish and using the right help, you can do a great job and fit into the Finnish way of life.
For more guidance on moving to Finland for work and integrating into Finnish society, explore our other articles linked throughout this guide.