Career planning

You are about to graduate into a profession that can accommodate a wide variety of different jobs. The range of options is wide, which can make career planning a challenging project. During your studies, you should increase your knowledge of what you can do with your degree.

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Services

A degree in social services allows for a variety of employment options. The Bachelor’s Degree in Social Services can be employed in the public, private or third sector, from child and youth work to elderly work. A social services graduate can be employed in, for example, substance abuse, mental health, the disabled or family work. Employers can be municipal or state bodies, organizations or companies.

Bachelor’s Degree in Health Care, Nursing

Bachelor’s Degree in Health Care, Nursing prepares you to work in primary health care, specialist nursing and social care in public, private and third sector, as well as in various project and development tasks or international tasks. Thanks to extensive education, the student has diverse employment opportunities in a changing social and health care service system.

Career planning can be started already in the beginning of studies by considering one’s own skills to date, for example through a life course. What have I done, what have I been doing and what have been my specific interests? Behind these are often found competencies, the articulation essential for identifying competences.

Sectoral competencies also act as a mirror of professional competence. It’s good to start by thinking about what are the highlights of your skills and identifying them. It is also important to think about your own aspirations, goals, and plans for your career.

One’s own career planning during studies is influenced by e.g. internships, the topic of the thesis and different course assignments, and where to apply for summer jobs.

By field of study (social field and interpretation of sign language and speech disabilities) or advanced (health field) studies, you can delve into a specific field or client group that interests you. If you do not know where you want to go, it is a good idea to choose the one that is most interesting to you and one that you feel will help you in many different careers in the future.

Placement and thesis

In all placements, you get to expand or deepen your skills and you can learn new things about yourself as well as find new ideas for career planning.

The thesis is one of the key elements of your polytechnic studies and its goal is to develop the skills with which you apply your knowledge accumulated in your studies. In addition, through the thesis, your ability to apply this competence in practical expert tasks related to professional studies will develop. It is possible to choose a perspective for the thesis, with which you want to accumulate certain skills also from the perspective of your career planning. If you go to do a topic in the so-called on a ready-made topic, such as a Diak project, you will also gain valuable project expertise, working life expertise and special expertise in one of the subject areas, also for career planning.

The working life orientation is essential in the Bachelor’s thesis. The working life partner of the thesis and its networks is one of the most significant working life networks during the studies. You can find a partner, for example, in internships, partners in other courses or at the department. You may start to notice collaborators right from the first course, so keep them in your mind as the thesis process begins. More about the topic selection of the thesis on the website for Thesis.

Feedback supporting career planning

During your studies, you will do a self-examination of the things you are good at and want to develop, as well as the things that interest you the most. In addition to self-examination, it is important to gather feedback on how others see you. The evaluations of the trainings and the feedback you receive on the team processes and outputs of the team assignments serve as a great mirror here. You should consider them a gift and collect them for yourself for CV update or job seeking purposes.

Reflections on feedback will also take you forward in your own career planning. Consider what kind of things you want to develop in yourself and your competence in the light of the feedback, and focus on, for example, internships, learning and work tasks where it is possible to develop these. Identifying one’s own skills is also important for job search.

Networking during studies

Today, the importance of networking is growing all the time, as a large proportion of jobs are acquired through networks. Networks can also provide new information on working life and various career opportunities. For this reason, it is worth starting to make contacts already during your studies, for example in internships and projects, and by getting to know your student colleagues. Networks can be outlined and documented for yourself, even on a professional network map, which also includes contact information for possible future contacts. It is useful to update this document during studies.

New networks can be created at seminars and various events in your field. In networking, it is also worth utilizing various channels, such as some groups in your field, LinkedIn and Facebook. Your own network can consist of several different aspects of life, such as work, study, personal life and leisure contacts.

Support from a mentor

Towards the end of the studies, many issues related to graduation, working life and profession become topical. While waiting for graduation, the graduation phase and the transition to working life can also evoke a wide variety of surprising feelings and thoughts. It would be important to have them shared with someone who understands and who has gone through the same steps.

In Diak’s mentoring program, you have the opportunity to be mentored by Diak’s alumni. Mentoring means the guidance and support that a more experienced person gives to a mentee. Discussions with the mentor are confidential and appointment times are agreed between you (the mentee) and the mentor. The process lasts for one semester, including a joint opening and closing meeting of mentees and mentors, as well as about five bilateral meetings. Read more and apply!

Mentoring can help you find answers to for example the following questions:

• Where can I find networks related to my profession?
• Where could I work?
• Do I have enough work experience?
• Are my knowledge and skills sufficient?
• What possibilities does my degree offer?
• What are my own goals?

Development of career planning skills

In a constantly changing world, career planning skills have become essential workplace competencies. These are skills that can be developed. To support this, various self-study materials have been created.

Competence can be seen as consisting of knowledge, skills, experiences, attitudes and networks. Information is accumulated e.g. during studies and through practical practice. Experience is often thought of as work experience, but competence is also supported by life experience and hobbies.

Competence can be defined as the capital of an individual and the competence profile of each is unique. A number of different concepts can be used for an individual’s competence, such as skills, ability, competence or expertise. Identifying and articulating one’s own skills, self-knowledge and considering career aspirations are important parts of career planning. All the feedback and evaluation you receive will also help identify your skills. Future working life skills include directing one’s own activities and self-management, communication, interaction and cooperation skills, as well as expert skills. You can mirror your own skills during your studies, e.g. these skills, as well as the competence requirements of one’s own profession. You will find sector-specific competencies in the assessment section in the bottom bar for each training.

Competence-based identity

Competence-based identity means the perception of oneself as an expert and actor in a changing working life and society. Competence-based identity looks at human competence from a broader perspective than professional identity. It helps to articulate a knowledge identity when you think about what kind of skills, abilities and qualities a person has in a broad sense, which interests and motivates him or her.

The development of a knowledge identity is a lifelong process during which an individual builds and modifies an image of himself or herself as an actor. It takes shape in relation to other people and the surrounding society. The construction of a knowledge identity is a multi-layered and multidimensional phenomenon. It is not self-constructed and is not self-evident, but must be actively developed by the individual. It is essential to shape the competence identity in a meaningful way according to the current job.

Sections of competences

Competence can be viewed e.g. a breakdown of the following areas of expertise:

Professional or substance competence

• Basic and special knowledge in your field
• Competences learned in studies and employment
• Get to know the competencies of your field

Generic skills

• Meta-skills such as pressure tolerance, collaboration skills and emotional skills
• Cognitive skills such as language skills, learning ability and problem solving skills
• Resilience (including mental flexibility, recovery and self-regulation)

Personal competence

• General working life skills, ie transferable skills
• Skills that move from one job to another always with you
• Transferable skills include both soft and hard skillsTough skills can be read e.g. Management of a specific information system
• Soft skills include e.g. Organizational Skills and Time Management, Presentation Skills and Customer Service Skills

Digital competence

• Information literacy, teleworking applications, electronic communication, information security
• Software and cross-platform management
• Ethical and responsible use of AI, where you can, for example, make use of Diak’s guidelines for using artificial intelligence.

Articulating your competences

Articulating your competences also includes identifying and developing competencies.

Competence identification

You can start mapping your own competence and lyrics through your own reflection. What skills and strengths do I know I have? You can also use various tests to confirm your own skills and possibly find new perspectives through them.

Writing competence

One’s own competence can be said, for example, through different areas.

• Through identity, your own qualities, abilities, way of doing things and, for example, values ​​emerge.
• Skills refer to making practices and applying and implementing knowledge.
• Experience means work experience, life experience and hobbies, for example.
• Networks refer to the contacts, community, and groups you belong to.
• The will brings out your attitude and interest.
• Through the information, you bring out your expertise, e.g. through studies.

Self-branding and elevator talk

There is also a strong connection to the kind of personal brand you create for yourself. How do you want other people to see you and what do you want to be talked about when you’re not there? We all have some area where we are particularly good. How could you stand out with your skills and strengths in your job search? By branding yourself, you effectively market and sell your own skills in your job search. You can also bring out your own skills with a skilled elevator speech.

Developing competences

Competence development refers to the development of an individual’s skills on a personal level as well as the deepening of professional skills during a career. Competence development can be related to specific, targeted goals such as learning a new method or, instead of individual goals, it can also be viewed as an ongoing process. Their skills can be developed, for example, through various courses and in-service training, but also through self-study, such as reading professional literature and following current discussions, such as podcasts and webinars.

The change in working life requires new kinds of skills and competences, the realization of which the education system must respond to. Mastering sectoral competence is no longer enough, but alongside substance competence, ie specific and sectoral competence, the student should have a wide range of competence and the ability to adapt to change.

There are many different channels and options for job search. You can search for jobs and internships in the following places, for example.

Job search sites

• Aarresaari
• Academic work
• European jobs network
• Foreigner.fi
• Indeed
• Jobs Finland
• KAMU
• Monster
• Oikotie.fi
• Overseasjobs.com
• Rekrytointi.fi
• TE services.fi
• Valtiolle.fi
• Temporary employment agencies e.g. Barona and Seure
• Tuudo app
• Other services

Studies and courses

• Finnish Courses.fi
• Helsinki region courses – Ilmo.net
• Studyinfo.fi
• Omia

Labour unions

• Akava
• STTK
• SAK

Hidden jobs

Hidden jobs are jobs that are not advertised through a public search. Tips on potential hidden jobs can be found by following the media and social media channels or by using professional networks, for example. You can also contact the company you are interested in directly and submit an open application.

Networks supporting job search

Today, social media has made networking easier, but friends, fellow students and former and current colleagues are still valuable contacts when looking for a job. In addition, you can build networks through hobby circles, courses and fairs.

Social media

The use of social media in job search has grown in the last few years.

LinkedIn focuses entirely on job search and with a carefully built profile it is easy to showcase your skills, experience and education. Through LinkedIn, you can find job postings, build networks or someone may spot you for a job based on your already impressive profile.

On Facebook, you can find the Jobs platform, where you can apply for or post jobs. You can also find industry-specific groups on Facebook, where interesting job ads are often shared alongside discussions. For example, check out the Social Work Career Network or the Diak Alumni groups. Here are some other FB groups

On Twitter, jobseekers can show that they are active and show their personality and skills by participating in discussions in their field. On Twitter, you can search for jobs using hashtags such as #jobs or #recruitment.

On Instagram, you can also search for job postings using hashtags. On Instagram, you can also view the profile and postings of interesting companies and gather information that you can use, for example, in a job interview.

A good CV and job application should always be tailored to the job position you are applying for. In the section on proficiency, the content that is important to highlight in the CV and in your job application has been opened in a way similar to the recruitment notice. It is essential to stand out in your job search with the help of your CV and job application so that you can get towards a job interview in the process. Here are some tips for writing a CV and job application.

CV

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) tells the recruiter in a nutshell all the relevant information about your work and educational background. A well-written CV attracts interest and convinces the recruiter of your interest in the job you are applying for. The recommended length is 1-2 pages and should include at least the following: basic information, educational background and work history. It is worth putting some effort into creating your CV. In addition to the traditional CV, there are other ways to make your skills stand out.

You can create a visually appealing CV using Canva’s versatile template templates or Word, for example.

Online portfolios, or extended digital CVs, are not yet widely used, so it’s still easy for jobseekers to stand out from the crowd.

The use of video as part of a CV is on the rise in job search. A video CV can help you stand out from other jobseekers. It is more memorable and highlights the personality and motivation of the applicant. Read more.

The Open Badge is a new and visual way to showcase your skills. Digital badges allow you to showcase your differently acquired skills, such as different achievements, knowledge, skills and attitudes. The badge consists of an identification picture and an accompanying information content, including the name of the badge, the name of the issuer, the criteria for the badge and the evidence required to describe the skills (screenshot, web link, web document). The badges can be linked to your own CV or social media site.

Job application

The purpose of a job application is to convince the recruiter that you are the person to invite for an interview. What you should highlight in your application depends primarily on the position you are applying for. Always tailor your application carefully to the specific role and reflect on your motivation, your competences, your personal strengths, the benefits you can offer the employer, and your commitment to the position.

The purpose of a job interview is to find out if you are the right person for the job. It is your job to convince the employer of your skills in the interview situation. When you receive an invitation to a job interview, you can already congratulate yourself!

In addition to your skills, the interviewer is interested in, among other things, your goals, values ​​and motivation. Attention will also be paid to your interaction skills, problem-solving ability and your knowledge of the employer and the job you are applying for.

Traditionally, a job interview is conducted as an individual interview, but the interview can also be arranged as a group interview or a video interview. Whatever the method of interviewing, one should prepare for it carefully.

Getting to know the employer

• Read the job advertisement again
• Review what you learn from your employer when applying for a job
• Check out the employer’s website and social media channels again
• What other information about the employer might be found? (Press articles, Financial information?)
• Prepare for a job interview by analyzing your own job, employer, and career aspirations. You will get more out of a job interview if you know yourself and your own desires in addition to the employer.

Be prepared to answer typical questions in a job interview

• Tell me about yourself?
• Why are you applying for this job?
• Why should we hire you?
• What are your weaknesses?
• What are your strengths?
• What are your values?
• What makes a good supervisor? (What leadership style supports you in your work?)
• Where will you see yourself in five years?
• What do you expect from this job?
• Hypothetical case at work – how would you work?

What doesn’t need to be answered in a job interview?

Issues related to, for example, religion, family relationships, sexual orientation, and political beliefs. If the interviewee asks questions related to these, you can circumvent the question politely.

At the end of the interview, it is worth asking about the course of the recruitment process. By doing this, you show that you are still interested in the job.

Preparing for an individual interview

Once you have received an invitation to a job interview

Respond to the interview invitation as quickly as possible, even if you are unable to attend.

Interview up front

A job interview is a meeting where you get to know and discuss. In addition to getting to know the employer, it is also possible for you to get to know the employer by actively asking questions yourself.

Think about the questions you want to ask about the job and the employer. Write down what you want to know about the employer, the job duties, and the company’s staff, that is, your potential future co-workers.

Prepare for the interview situation by thinking about your clothes the day before. Also, check how you get to the site and how much time you should set aside for the transitions. Bring your resume (CV), any certificates, and your job application. You can also bring notes to record.

In an interview situation

Arrive for an interview well in advance. Introduce yourself with a smile and make an indelible impression on the employer from the very first moment.

Excitement

It is natural to get excited in a job interview situation. Excitement tells you that you want to perform well in a situation. However, it is possible to learn to manage insurmountable tension. For example, you can do different breathing exercises before the interview situation.

Body language, expressions, gestures and own activity

Body language can tell you many things about yourself. A suitably upright position also gives you a more confident feeling. With expressions and gestures, you can show your interest in the employer and the job you are looking for.

Feel free to ask the interviewer any questions that interest you about that job. Also be prepared to tell us about your own skills concisely, your motives for the job and possible gaps in your CV.

Preparing for a group interview

A group interview refers to a job interview situation in which other job seekers participate in order to add. In a group interview, it is possible to stand out with your own personality and the goal is to stand out in favour of other job seekers. In a group interview situation, consider at least the following:

1. Think of the situation instead of the competitive situation from the perspective of working together and collaborative skills.
2. Feel free to participate in the discussion but also give room for others to speak.
3. Listen to other applicants, comment constructively on their opinions, and give positive feedback. As a good tip, you also memorize their names, which gives the employer a good idea of ​​paying attention to others.
4. Remember to be yourself and bring out your best!

Tips for video interview

The popularity of video interviews has grown as a form of interview. It can be done via a video call or pre-recorded video. Here are some tips for the video interview:

1. Prepare in a video interview to answer the same questions as in a traditional interview
2. Make sure you dress appropriately and keep the environment and background clean. For example, in Teams, you can also use background blur or a wallpaper of your choice.
3. Check the audio and video settings for proper operation. Also consider a pleasant viewing angle and lighting for a video connection.
4. Remote connection may interact with its own challenges. However, strive for a natural impression e.g. Looking at the camera while talking.
5. Avoid talking to the interviewee – always listen to the questions to the end.