International Tech Talent in Finland Survey 2023 (Downloadable report)
Finland has become an attractive homebase to international tech talent over the years. With a highly regarded education system, high standard of living, access to funding and resources, and a growing tech ecosystem, it is no surprise that international tech talents are drawn to this Nordic country. But what factors do these talents consider when choosing their employers? Why do they decide to stay in Finland? And how can employers better attract and retain international tech talent?
In this research, we explored the reasons why international tech talents choose Finland as their home and why they decide to stay. We also looked at the top factors they consider when choosing their employer, and provide recommendations for employers looking to attract and retain international tech talent.
Reasons why international tech talent choose Finland:
1. High standard of living
2. Safety and wellbeing
3. High-quality education
Finland’s well-regarded education system, including in the field of technology, attracts international talent seeking to improve their skills. The high standard of living combined with a level of safety, including social benefits, healthcare, holidays, and a strong public infrastructure, makes it an attractive place to live.
Reasons international tech talent stay in Finland
The excellent work-life balance, supportive work environment, high standard of living, and access to a strong tech ecosystem are key reasons international tech talent stay in Finland. Finnish workplaces are often described as supportive and collaborative, with an emphasis on teamwork and open communication.
The high standard of living that initially attracted tech talent to Finland also contributes to their decision to stay, with a strong social safety net, quality healthcare, and public infrastructure. As the Finnish tech ecosystem continues to grow and mature, it provides even more opportunities for tech talent to work and innovate in a supportive environment.
Reasons international tech talent want to leave Finland
The most common reasons why international tech talent do not want to stay in Finland are the country’s cold and dark climate, lack of social life, and the limited career advancement opportunities.
The survey respondents emphasised that the lack of employment and career progression opportunities is a significant factor hindering their motivations to stay in the country. They also highlighted their difficulty in building social circles and fully integrating into the Finnish culture. As employers, it is crucial to address the career progression, social elements in order to keep international tech talent. You can ensure that promotion plans are unbiased, offer language training, and create opportunities for networking and building a social life outside of work.
What can employers do to attract and retain international tech talent?
International tech talent commonly consider several aspects when choosing their employers: good work-life balance, competitive salary and benefits, interesting and challenging work, a good work atmosphere and colleagues, opportunities for career development and growth, a positive company culture and values, flexible working hours and location, and the possibility of remote work.
Here are the top 5 factors:
Interesting and challenging work: International tech talent seeks interesting and challenging work that enables them to use their skills and knowledge.
Competitive salary and benefits: Competitive salary and benefits are important to international tech talent as they want to be compensated fairly for their skills and experience.
Good company culture and values: A positive company culture that aligns with the values of international tech talent is important to them.
Flexible work opportunities: International tech talent value flexibility in their work schedules and location. They look for jobs that allow them to balance their professional and personal lives.
Opportunities for career development and growth: International tech talents want opportunities to advance their careers, gain new skills, and grow professionally.
To attract and retain international talent, employers should ensure that these five factors are met. They can work towards creating a welcoming workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion by providing support in areas such as language training, cultural training, and social support. Based on the survey results, international tech talents mentioned that the ability to speak English or the local language as well as feel comfortable in the local culture was considered essential for smooth workplace integration.
Other initiatives such as employee resource groups, diversity training, mentorship programs, and offering opportunities for employees to showcase their cultural heritage can also help international talent feel valued and integrated into the workplace.
In addition to the factors mentioned above, research also shows that job satisfaction, professional development opportunities, and work-life balance are essential for attracting and retaining international tech talent.
Furthermore, employers should be transparent in their hiring practices and offer clear guidance on the immigration process. The complexity of immigration procedures and the uncertainty around visa and work permit applications can create anxiety and stress for international tech talent. By prioritising these factors, employers can create a welcoming and supportive workplace culture that attracts and retains international tech talent.
How well is your company doing in attracting and retaining international tech talent? Which areas do you excel in? And where do you still need to improve?