Reemployment after structural change in an entrepreneurial ecosystem:capturing the reengagement experiences of Nokia’s ex-employees within Oulu area

• Main Author: Laitinen, R. (Rebecca)
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: University of Oulu 2019
• Online Access: http://jultika.oulu.fi/Record/nbnfioulu-201906052398

Abstract. This thesis looks at reemployment processes and strategies after the annual mass layoffs conducted by Nokia in Oulu, Finland. Most of other existing firms in Oulu were Nokia’s stakeholders and that is why the dismissals’ effects were so remarkably damaging. The labor market suffered from the oversupply of skilled workers and the city of the increasing rate of unemployment. Because of the stressful situation that posed great challenges for reemployment, people’s other factors than work experience and education proved to be crucial. In this study, the job search behaviors, strategies, and processes of the dismissed Nokia-employees are examined in the context of a sudden structural change. In addition, the development of their job opportunities before, during, and after the structural change are investigated. Primary data from qualitative semi-structured interviews with seven ex-Nokians is combined with secondary data for gathering information. The main findings from the study show that external, professional assistance contributes considerably for gaining job interviews and offers. Moreover, social networks and get-togethers act as an important information source for informal job leads. The strategy or behavior that an individual decides to choose for one’s job search is closely attached to one’s personal, characteristic behavior and thus more or less conscious. In addition, the ability and readiness to adapt to the changing demands of the labor market appears to be important for the successful reemployment. In addition, the study shows that the business landscape has diversified i.e. there are now also many other ICT firms than Nokia. On the other hand, the diversification has created new jobs and thus increased job opportunities but also resulted in expanded job descriptions and thus required the ex-Nokians to supplement their previous education and experience before being able to enter the labor market again. Lastly, the employee loyalty in Oulu is high which means that the employee turnover rate is low. This results in reduced knowledge spillovers and open positions. In conclusion, the economic development could be in danger of slowing down. The purpose of this thesis is not to provide a guide to a successful reemployment. Rather, the aim is to ignite the discussion on what kinds of tools and services would enhance one’s reemployment possibilities during a sudden structural change. The findings give policy-makers and firms good implications and empirical evidence when facing similar circumstances in the future. The thesis introduces the reader to a modern job search where fluctuations and uncertainty are now a standard.