Tutustuminen

Tutustuminen is a Finnish noun referring to the act or process of becoming familiar with something or someone; the act of getting acquainted, orientation, or initial familiarization. It derives from the verb tutustua and the suffix -minen, turning the verb into an abstract noun.

It is used in various contexts: in the workplace to describe onboarding and introduction to a company, department, or job tasks; in education to describe orientation for new students; in healthcare or public services for familiarization with procedures, facilities, or services; in everyday language to indicate the act of learning about a new place or topic. It often implies a guided or structured process, sometimes including tours, introductory materials, and meetings.

In HR language, tutustuminen is often part of perehdytys (onboarding). The term emphasizes the process rather than a finished state. It contrasts with esittely, which is a presentation or introduction of a person or topic; tutustuminen focuses on the recipient’s active engagement in learning and adapting. Common compounds include tutustuminen organisaatioon, tutustuminen työtehtäviin, tutustumiskäynti, and tutustumismateriaali.

The concept is used across sectors and can be formal or informal. It supports smooth transitions for newcomers and users by providing relevant information, routes, and contacts, and it is commonly referenced in guidelines, training programs, and educational materials to facilitate effective adaptation and learning.