People are the highlight of Mika's workday – both customers and colleagues

Mika is a bus driver at Föli and a trainer for new drivers. He enjoys talking to people and listening to their stories, because it enriches his life.

Mika became a bus driver by chance. After decades working in the graphics field, he wanted a change of pace and already had a driving license for bus, as he had driven a tour bus for several bands alongside work. 

"To the surprise of my former colleagues, I became a bus driver. I wanted a job that wouldn't follow me home. When I finish the day and go home, the work stays at the office. This job was just right for that, and as a career changer, I got to a comfortable job after a short training," Mika says. 

Mika's workdays vary greatly depending on the tasks: some days he drives the bus, while others are filled with orientation and road safety training for newcomers. 

"As a driver, I'm a customer service person, which is something I emphasise with the new drivers. I like to think that the customer who enters the bus is the one paying my salary. I take the passengers to the agreed place at the agreed time. When they are on their phones, the journey is going smoothly and everyone feels safe," Mika says with a smile.

 

Training is about strengthening self-confidence

Mika finds the training work very interesting – over the summer, he provided the orientation for 30–40 new drivers. Although he trains new drivers, he does not teach them how to drive.

"They all know how to drive. I help them, support them and strengthen their self-confidence. If I see room for improvement, I suggest new ways of doing things. At the same time, I get to know them and hear their stories. It's amazing."

The life stories of new colleagues have made Mika think about his own life and put it in perspective.

"At work, I meet people who are tremendously positive and grateful for the moment when I help them and they get to work. It helps you forget the small problems of your own," Mika says.

Being calm is a virtue for drivers

Mika emphasises that the most important part of driving a bus is being calm. Even if the bus is running late, the driver should not be nervous. When behind the wheel, he always tries to create a calm atmosphere and listen to classical music.

"When you have a schedule and a lot of passengers, you have a big responsibility, which can create pressure. When you become stressed, you start making hasty decisions that rarely help. The most important thing is to stay calm and relaxed in all situations, as it helps in both customer service and driving," says Mika.

For Mika, the best part about the job is encountering both customers and colleagues. He praises the working group's atmosphere and enjoys the multicultural community. 

"I'm really glad when the drivers I have trained are doing well and get a permanent job – it's a big deal for me too! If you are a career changer or tired of your current job, you can get employed here quickly. It's also great that you get to drive brand new electric vehicles as the bus fleet is becoming more and more electric," Mika says.