HR COMPETENCIES IN A FINNISH CONTEXT
Maria Järlström, Associate Professor, University of Vaasa, Finland
Anne Kakkonen, Researcher, University of Vaasa, Finland

Abstract
This study is focused on HR competencies in a Finnish context. Interviews of 13 HR managers and six top managers indicated five HR competencies: HR knowledge, Business knowledge, Strategic contribution, Communication and Negotiation, and Personal Characteristics. HR knowledge seemed to be the most important competency for HR professionals. HR managers also emphasized the competency in organizational design and development as part of the key HR knowledge. Contrary to other studies, business knowledge and strategic contribution seemed to be different competency areas in this study. Also communication and negotiation, and certain personality characteristics, are important for HR professionals. Interestingly, HR technology was not stressed in this study although most of the companies had information systems within HR. We have tried to fill a research gap related to required and preferred HR competencies in Finland. The results also produced up-to-date information for companies on the HR competencies they need or should develop.
Keywords: competencies, HR competencies, HR professionals, Finnish corporations