Initial interview and job search discussions

Initial interview

The initial interview is arranged for all jobseekers no later than ten working days after the start of their job search, primarily at an employment services location, but it can also be organised in another way due to a weighty reason.

In the initial interview your situation will be analysed and an employment plan will be prepared for you. In the interview, you and your assigned employment service specialist will discuss what kind of jobs you could apply for or whether you need to acquire training or change fields

Your service needs will also be assessed in the initial interview. The assessment of service needs is a key part of supporting your employment and directing you to services.

In the initial interview, you will also agree on the service use method and how you will communicate with the employment official.

A new initial interview will only be organised if at least six months have passed since the end of your job search and you are re-registered as a job seeker.

Job search discussions and supplementary job search discussions

The employment official will hold job search discussions and supplementary job search discussions with you.

Job search discussions

The employment official must organise a job search discussion with you every three months after the initial interview or the previous job search discussion. Between the discussions, you apply for work independently or participate in services in accordance with the employment plan.

The job search discussions apply to all unemployed jobseekers and jobseekers under the threat of unemployment and those working part-time as well as those laid off by reducing working hours. If the jobseeker is undergoing labour market training, a work try-out, wage-subsidised work, rehabilitation or studying with unemployment benefit, the employment authority must arrange a job search discussion only one month before the estimated end of the service.

As a job seeker, you are in regular contact with your assigned employment service specialist in the job search discussions.

Job search discussions are carried out in the way most appropriate way for the current situation. As a job seeker, you can express your wish for the way the discussion is organised.

In the job search discussion, you will receive support for your job search. In addition to this, the effectiveness of your job search and the implementation of the employment plan will be assessed. In the job search discussion, the assessment of service needs will be reviewed and you will be directed to services accordingly.

Your employment plan will be drawn up or revised in each job search discussion.

Supplementary job search discussions

After the initial interview, the employment authority will arrange five supplementary job search discussions or another number deemed necessary. A discussion can also be arranged at your request.

Other supplementary job search discussions can be organised according to your needs. Instead of a supplementary job search discussion, you can also be offered other personal services that support your job search or improve your chances of finding employment.

This website is part of the European Commission's Your Europe portal. Did you find what you were looking for? Give feedback! (europa.eu)