From Shame to Support: How Personal Experience is Reshaping Job Services
Just over a year ago, Linda Yrjölä experienced the sting of unemployment and the accompanying sense of shame, fueled by societal perceptions of those without work. Now, she’s on the other side of the desk, working at the Helsinki Employment Services in Kampen, Finland, helping others navigate the challenging job market.
“My friends say I’m an expert at being unemployed,” Yrjölä laughs. Her journey to this point wasn’t straightforward. She experienced burnout in her previous role at the Digital and Population Data Agency, leading her to resign in autumn 2024.
The Rising Tide of Unemployment and Long-Term Joblessness
Yrjölä’s story unfolds against a backdrop of increasing unemployment. In February 2026, nearly 50,000 people were registered as unemployed in Helsinki. The number of long-term unemployed in the city rose by 25 percent compared to the previous year. This trend highlights a growing challenge for employment services and the individuals they serve.
Finding a new position proved difficult. Yrjölä submitted up to 30 applications a month, often with little response, particularly for Swedish-speaking roles. She attributes finally securing her current position to a combination of factors, including volunteer work and perhaps, simply luck.
Empathy Born From Experience
What sets Yrjölä apart is her lived experience. Having recently navigated the job market herself, she possesses a unique understanding of the challenges faced by those she now assists. Colleagues who haven’t actively sought employment in recent times may not fully grasp the current difficulties.
This empathy translates into more effective support. Yrjölä understands the frustration of countless applications, the sting of rejection and the emotional toll of prolonged unemployment. She can offer practical advice and a sense of validation that someone who hasn’t been in that position might struggle to provide.
The Importance of Structure and Proactive Job Seeking
Yrjölä’s own experience taught her the importance of structure during unemployment. Rather than constantly searching for jobs, she allocated specific days for applications, allowing her to maintain a sense of routine and reduce stress. She too emphasizes the value of networking and exploring opportunities beyond traditional job postings, such as volunteering or taking courses to enhance skills.
She advises job seekers not to rely solely on formal applications, but to leverage all available connections and explore opportunities to build their CV through activities outside of paid employment.
Seeking Help is a Sign of Strength
Yrjölä stresses the importance of seeking assistance when needed. “Don’t think you have to manage everything on your own,” she advises. Employment services can provide valuable support, from resume writing to exploring entrepreneurial options.
FAQ: Navigating Unemployment
- What should I do if I’m feeling overwhelmed by job searching? Seek support from employment services, friends, and family. Structure your days and prioritize self-care.
- Is volunteering a worthwhile use of time when unemployed? Yes, it can help build skills, expand your network, and demonstrate initiative to potential employers.
- How important is networking? Networking is crucial. Leverage your existing contacts and actively seek new connections.
This article is based on reporting from Yle, a Finnish public broadcasting company.
