D-I-E Working hours

Description

Although, it's not the first time I am visiting Finland, I’ve started seeing things from a different angle since moving here. Even after 2 months in Kokkola, working hours continue to amaze me.

Banks are closed on weekends? No pharmacy after 6 pm? Can’t go to coffee shop late in the evening? Or bus stations which don’t work at night – how is it possible if there are night buses?

Interpretation

In Russia most of the public places open early in the morning and work until 7-10 pm. Also, there are many 24-hour shops. Want some chocolate at 3 am? Nothing stops you.

Investigating the reasons for such working mode of Finnish shops I found out three key factors:
- to operate in the night hours you should pay special fee. So, there are government regulations in this sphere;

- employees must be paid increased rate if they work night shifts (Note! “Night” shift in Finland – from 8 pm till 11 pm);

- trade unions closely monitor all the proceedings.

It is simply unprofitable to work late. Only big markets can afford it.

Evaluation

By talking to natives I’ve concluded that the system of working hours is not considered as a problem at all. Nobody is in a hurry to buy or serve. There are plenty more fish in the sea. Haven’t managed to do it today? That’s OK, there is tomorrow.

Little by little, I am getting used to it – just have to buy chocolates beforehand.