As a partner of Alihankinta, we want to help companies leverage international expertise more confidently as part of their growth.
The theme of Alihankinta 2026, growth and internationalization, raises a question that is becoming increasingly relevant for industrial companies: do companies have the skills and expertise needed for the next step in growth?
Work in Finland supports employers throughout the different stages of international recruitment. According to Senior Director
Laura Lindeman, international talent should be viewed not only as a solution to recruitment needs, but also as a resource for exports, market understanding, and new perspectives.
– Alihankinta is an excellent place for us to highlight how attracting and recruiting international talent is connected to the future of the manufacturing industry, says Lindeman.
Expertise that can open new markets
Work in Finland encourages companies to see international expertise as more than a solution to individual staffing needs. International talent can bring valuable market knowledge, cultural understanding, networks, and new perspectives to business development.
– For example, a company may have an employee from India but hasn’t considered that this person could also help the company enter the Indian market. International backgrounds should be actively recognized and utilized, Lindeman says.
In manufacturing, companies often need highly specific expertise. Some technical skills and leadership roles remain difficult to find in Finland, even though labor shortages have eased in some areas.
– The biggest risk is that a company cannot find the right person in Finland but also doesn’t look for talent internationally. In that case, potential growth opportunities remain unused, Lindeman points out.
Support for international recruitment and everyday challenges
For many companies, international recruitment can feel like a major step. Concerns may include permits, language skills, onboarding, and workplace integration.
Work in Finland offers employers free, easy-to-access services to support international recruitment. Companies can receive guidance, training, and support in developing international workplaces. Work in Finland also helps companies identify reliable partners to ensure recruitment is carried out responsibly and ethically.
– Companies don’t have to deal with these questions alone. We are happy to help already at the stage when international recruitment is only being considered, says Lindeman.
Start the conversation before there is an urgent need
Work in Finland will participate in Alihankinta 2026 as a theme partner. Experts will be available throughout the event, and Work in Finland will also take part in event presentations and panel discussions.
Lindeman especially hopes to meet companies that recognize a need for growth or new expertise but have not yet looked beyond Finland’s borders.
– Even if international recruitment is not immediately relevant, it is worth discussing the support available. That way, companies know where to turn when the need arises.
Read more about Work in Finland’s employer services:
workinfinland.fi 
