(2) Entrepreneurial job-seeking approach

Although faced with many uncertainties and difficulties in finding jobs and potential discrimination in the Finnish labor market, one of the interviewees still said that she thought an individual's effort and determination to create a position for themselves is quite important for their own integration in Finland. She provided a potential strategy for those who are struggling to integrate, especially into the labor market:

I think when you met difficulties in (finding jobs), first, you must not avoid the problem. Second, you should not just complain every day about the social injustice or unequal opportunities for foreigners. You should just face the situation and find solutions. Don't overlook the power of habit. [...] I have another idea (for those who want to stay here): Even if some companies they do not have a specific position to open the market in China, and do not want to be international, I think you should have an entrepreneurial spirit to create positions for yourself. You can give them some ideas and lead them to think that they need to develop in Japan or Korea or China. When they see the potential value of your capability (to open up the Chinese market), maybe they will be able to provide a position for you to try. [ ... ] I think when there is no suitable position, you need to create the position yourself. [ ... ] I think that a strong will and determination are very important.

(Female, higher education)
