työelämäjakson

työelämäjakso is a Finnish term that refers to the sequence of stages a person goes through during their professional life. The concept is often used in career planning, organizational development, and human resources to describe the phases of entry, growth, stability, transition, and exit that an employee experiences from the beginning of their career to retirement or a new occupational path. The framework assists in understanding how individuals develop skills, establish work identity, and adapt to changing labor markets. It also highlights the need for continuous learning and personal development to stay competitive throughout changing industries.

The main stages within a työelämäjakso are: initial learning and training, where one acquires foundational qualifications; early career, which entails gaining work experience and building a professional network; mid-career development, where individuals often take on leadership responsibilities or specialize in a niche; late career, characterized by consolidation of expertise and possible mentoring roles; and final transition or retirement, where the focus shifts to knowledge transfer and reflection. Each phase is influenced by factors such as education, industry trends, and personal goals. Organizations use this model to design training programs, succession plans, and retention strategies. Finnish labor policy also recognizes these stages, providing support through education subsidies, career counseling, and pension planning. By understanding the työelämäjakso, individuals and employers can collaboratively chart effective career trajectories that align with societal changes and personal aspirations.