Telma 1/2023

“Electricians at the metro depot sit down and pause to reflect so that they can solve, in a relaxed atmosphere, challenges that come up in their work,” says supervisor Markku Hukka from Kaupunkiliikenne Oy.

Creativity is a vital skill in working life because it helps with innovation and problem solving. Intuition, on the other hand, helps individuals make quick decisions. Creativity flourishes in an atmosphere of trust, but is there strength left for it in the non-ending stream of digital meetings?

The theme for the year’s last Telma issue is creativity at the workplace. Telma found creativity, for example, among software developers, metro depot employees and in accommodation services. Creativity is all around us, at each workplace and in every role. That is why it should not be tied up in consecutive Teams meetings and webinars.

“Creativity is inspired by the possibility to influence the content of one’s work,” says Carolina Mansikkala, HR Manager at Scandic hotels.

“Software development requires creativity in solving problems and in finding, for the customer, the best possible solution that stands the test of time,” says Mikael von Bonsdorff, Senior Software Engineer at Monad.

“Because the entire company, including the management, is committed to icebreaker safety culture, occupational wellbeing has improved in the challenging work environment,” says Pia Broumand, Chief Security Officer at Arctia Ltd.

Appropriate shift planning can support the work ability of engine drivers, says Toni Nokkala, Engine Driver and former occupational safety and health officer at VR.

At work, we have permission to discuss challenges in all areas of life, because stress in private life affects the ability to work, says Terhi Jaakonsaari, HR Director at Solita.

Many find “work ability management” a difficult term. Once you have gotten used to people management, should you now move on to managing work ability? Once you realise that you are still managing people, the term no longer feels so complicated any more. Work ability management has direct impacts on employees’ well-being and productivity and

Work disability caused by mental health issues and musculoskeletal disorders costs billions of euros for Finland every year. High-quality management practices that promote ability to work can radically turn the trend of wellbeing at work.

Talking to the cashier can be the only social encounter for a lonely person, says cashier Ingrid Kareketo.

I am lucky, because I could turn my hobby into a profession, says Marko Anttila, who plays for the Oulun Kärpät ice hockey team.