The Human Side of the Future of Work : Rethinking People and Work Management

Drawing on a qualitative study of Finnish returnees conducted between 2023 and 2026, we show that debates on the future of work should extend beyond technology-driven transformation to the needs and aspirations of globally mobile workers. Our findings highlight the complex interplay of managing work and life through mobility and the professional and personal consequences that follow. Based on these insights, we propose four pathways for Finnish organizations, HR professionals, and individual employees to adapt their strategies and practices to better recognize and leverage returnees’ global career capital. This could also, in turn, strengthen Finland’s attractiveness in the eyes of international talent.