Work hours in Finland are more flexible compared to many other countries, allowing employees to choose schedules that fit their lifestyle. The typical office hours in Finland are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. While the work week is 37.5 hours, overtime hours are not paid in salary but in corresponding time off. This flexibility allows employees to have more time in the evenings for hobbies, activities, and family responsibilities. Managers and bosses in Finland respect employees’ time off, with no expectations for work-related communication after 4 p.m. The generous paid time off policy in Finland, which can accumulate up to 38 paid vacation days a year, is seen as a treasure by many, especially for those coming from countries like the U.S.
In Finland, there is a culture of taking vacations, with a law requiring employees to take two consecutive weeks of vacation in the summer. Companies may also offer additional benefits for taking time off, such as a 50% bonus for vacation days taken during the summer. The whole month of July is often a vacation period in many Finnish offices, with important matters postponed until August. Parental leave is also generous in Finland, with both parents offered paid leave that they can use in different amounts as needed. The Finnish work culture encourages parents to prioritize family responsibilities, such as caring for sick children, even offering paid leave for such situations.
Health and leisure benefits are common in Finnish workplaces, providing employees with opportunities to engage in sports, culture, and wellness activities covered by work. Access to Finland’s healthcare system is also valued by employees, allowing them to seek medical care for free when needed. The lack of emphasis on climbing the corporate ladder in Finland may be surprising for some, as many employees are content with staying in the same role for years. This lack of hierarchy in corporate settings is reflected in the overall approach to respect and equality in the workplace, where everyone is addressed by their first name and job titles hold less significance.
Despite the lack of emphasis on career advancement, the Finnish work culture is characterized by a sense of balance and respect for work-life boundaries. Employees feel valued and respected, regardless of their position in the company. There is a sense of satisfaction and contentment with what one has, reflecting the Finnish philosophy of appreciating enough. While some may crave growth and achievements, the Finnish approach to work encourages individuals to focus on personal well-being and work-life balance. Overall, the Finnish corporate culture is seen as positive and supportive by many employees, providing a conducive environment for personal and professional growth.
Jade Ventoniemi, an American living in Finland for the past five years, shares her insights into the Finnish work culture. As a former NCAA basketball player and founder of a marketing firm, Ventoniemi appreciates the work-life balance and flexibility offered by the Finnish work environment. She highlights the generous paid time off policy and benefits provided by Finnish companies, as well as the emphasis on family responsibilities and well-being. Ventoniemi’s experience in Finland has allowed her to explore her ambition and personal growth without limitations, leading her to appreciate the balance and respect inherent in Finnish corporate culture. Overall, she finds the Finnish work environment to be fulfilling and supportive of both professional and personal development.
