The StaffSupervisor training program brought new perspectives

The charming front-of-house shift supervisor Tatiana Kuutto took part in the StaffSupervisor training program organised by StaffPoint and Perho Pro in spring 2024. Tatiana was recruited to Lapland Hotels Bulevardi in Helsinki through the supervisor training, after restaurant manager Kristin Aidla joined the collaboration.

A New Beginning in Finland – Finding My Place as a Supervisor in the Restaurant Industry

Tatiana moved back to Finland from the United States two years ago. Having worked in management and leadership positions for many years abroad, moving to Finland brought a completely new environment and its own challenges. She shared that the StaffSupervisor program helped her understand Finnish restaurant culture and its unique characteristics – and most importantly, it helped her find her own place in the field here.

“Now I know where I belong. Through the training, I’ve gained the knowledge and skills I need to succeed in my work and in Finland. The entire StaffSupervisor journey has boosted my confidence immensely. The group spirit has been amazing, and the teachers at Perho Pro, StaffPoint, and my colleagues at Lapland Hotels Bulevardi have all been incredibly supportive every step of the way.”

Learning Through Practice at Perho Pro

For Tatiana, the best part of the StaffSupervisor training was its practical, hands-on approach. She especially appreciated the extensive industry experience of the teachers at Perho Pro. They not only had deep professional knowledge but also shared many fascinating stories and examples from their own careers. These real-life insights brought the lessons to life and helped participants better understand complex topics such as Finnish labour laws and working hours regulations.

Discussions and reflections with other students were also a key part of the learning experience. “The exchange of perspectives with classmates – both front-of-house and kitchen supervisors – enriched my understanding and opened my mind to new ideas. Hearing about both sides of the restaurant gave me a broader view of how everything connects.”

The first month was quite a challenge as Tatiana learned to balance work and studies, but soon everything fell into place thanks to good support and clear organisation.

StaffSupervisor Training Exceeded All Expectations

“Honestly, the training exceeded all my expectations!”

According to Tatiana, the program went far beyond theory, participants learned how to apply their new knowledge directly to real situations at work. This made the learning experience genuinely valuable and relevant.

She was also surprised by how many career opportunities the training opened up. “Being able to combine what I’ve learned with my own experience and apply it at work is truly inspiring. The diversity within our group was one of the best parts.”

Learning That Inspires Confidence and Growth

atiana believes the StaffSupervisor program offers a unique opportunity to learn not only about the industry but also about oneself.

“If you join with an open mind and a willingness to grow, you can get so much out of it. I’ve gained more from this experience than I ever imagined. I’ve received a lot of support, and now I have the knowledge and confidence to be someone others can rely on. I want to be the kind of leader that employees can turn to with their questions without hesitation.”

Tatiana enjoys working in a restaurant with an international clientele, and thanks to the training program, she now has a diverse and rewarding job where she sees herself staying for a long time. “In this work environment, I can continue to grow and build my career, for the long run.”