Kehityssuhde

Kehityssuhde is a Finnish term that translates to "development relationship" or "growth relationship." It describes a specific type of professional relationship between a subordinate and a supervisor, or between a mentor and a mentee, where the primary focus is on the subordinate's or mentee's professional development and growth. This goes beyond the typical manager-employee relationship, which might focus more on immediate task completion and performance evaluation.

In a kehityssuhde, the supervisor or mentor actively invests time and resources in understanding the individual's career aspirations, strengths, and areas for improvement. The relationship is characterized by open communication, trust, and a shared commitment to the individual's long-term career trajectory. Key elements include setting development goals, providing constructive feedback, offering learning opportunities such as training or challenging assignments, and acting as a sounding board for ideas and challenges.

This approach is often seen as a proactive strategy to foster talent within an organization, increase employee engagement and retention, and build a more skilled workforce. It emphasizes the mutual benefit of growth, where the individual's development also contributes to the success of the team and the organization. The concept highlights the importance of nurturing potential and creating an environment where continuous learning and professional advancement are prioritized.