Quality of working life

Skilled and motivated personnel are a key success factor for government administration. The Government encourages continuous development of its employees by supporting training and the development of professional skills.

In work and management processes, emphasis lies on responsibility, trust and coaching. Much focus is placed on the development of managerial skills.

Competence development

Learning is part of every public official’s job description. Personnel training arranged or funded by the employer is mainly held during working hours. An employee’s independent training can also be supported on a case-by-case basis taking into account the needs of the agency in question. Paid or unpaid leave may be granted for studying, or working time arrangements may be possible.

Qualifications and further training for certain government professions are provided by the government's own training units. Some government employers may also have separate training and internship programmes designed e.g. for recent graduates.

The common digital learning environment of the central government, eOppiva, contains dozens of different training courses responding to a variety of skills needs.

Professional competence is ensured at all stages of working life to meet job requirements, and development needs are reviewed with each employee in discussions. Professional development and expertise sharing are also supported by staff rotation.

Working environment and well-being at work

Changing working environments and developing technologies create new ways of working and new jobs also for the government. The government seeks to promote a work-life balance by, for example, increasing teleworking opportunities and flexibility of working hours.

Well-being at work is supported and occupational safety is ensured by jointly developing a good working environment and a well-functioning work community. Government employee satisfaction surveys show the importance of interesting and challenging work tasks. Opportunities to develop and job stability are also appreciated.

While equal treatment of the personnel is relevant to all employer activities, it is highlighted in recruitment and when determining the conditions of public service employment relationships.