By Nina Dahlblom
Infineon HR leader Heini Lahtela says professionals must stay open to change — and remember that recruiters are human too.
Heini Lahtela, HR Business Partner at Infineon Technologies AG, a global semiconductor company with a strong focus on powering AI, has spent years observing how technology reshapes the labor market. Her professional tenure in Silicon Valley technology is long. Before joining Infineon, she worked as an HR Partner at giants such as Microsoft and Cisco.
Her message about the future of work is both candid and pragmatic. “If a young person entering the workforce asks me where they can find a guaranteed job, my honest answer is unfortunately: I don't know.”
“If a young person entering the workforce asks me where they can find a guaranteed job, my honest answer is unfortunately: I don't know.”
In recent years, a remarkable number of jobs have disappeared for a variety of reasons, beginning with the pandemic. According to Lahtela, around 2025 artificial intelligence also began to influence job losses in the technology sector, and the trend is likely to accelerate.
Yet she cautions against becoming paralyzed by the scale of change. “The key is to remain open to transformation and see the possibilities.”
AI skills start with curiosity
Keeping up with technological change has become essential. Lahtela emphasizes the importance of continuous learning within one's own field.
“It's important to understand the fundamentals of AI, but even more important is applying these tools in projects outside of work that genuinely interest you.”
Her advice is practical: Read widely, discuss best practices, and share insights. Much of this expertise still resides in people rather than systems.
“Knowledge isn't fully embedded in the systems yet — it still lives in people's heads,” Lahtela said.
Know how you learn best. She believes learning is often most effective when it happens through collaboration.
“I personally have learned a lot of AI trends and possible applications to my own area of expertise (Human Resources) by talking to colleagues. This area is so new that no one has all the answers yet. And the possibilities are endless.”
The job search may take longer
For job seekers navigating today's labor market, Lahtela advises patience. “Finding a job takes longer than it used to. The market is tough. A realistic mindset and some self-compassion go a long way.” Networking remains particularly important.
“If you find someone within a company who has a role there, it's worth building that connection.”
Recruiters are human too
In today's digital environment, candidates have unprecedented access to information about companies.
“When I'm hiring, I assume candidates have done their research on the company, including the people who will be interviewing them. Almost everyone has a professional online presence,” Lahtela said.
She believes the human element remains crucial: “I'm a people person. Creating a genuine personal connection and establishing mutual respect matters. Show professionalism, listen carefully to what the recruiter has to say, and show genuine interest.”
Thoughtful follow-up can matter just as much:
“It's perfectly appropriate — and appreciated — to thank someone for the conversation and stay in touch.”
In many cases, Lahtela noted, candidates shape how they are perceived precisely in these small but important moments of interaction.
Stay curious and demonstrate adaptability
Curiosity, Lahtela says, remains one of the most valuable traits in working life. Professionals must stay curious about new developments and remain open to improving their skills and ways of working with others.
When that process is authentic, it becomes easier to tell a clear professional story — where you have been, what you are good at, and where you want to go next.
Hiring managers often remember candidates who can demonstrate the impact of their work rather than simply listing responsibilities.
“These candidates often demonstrate the capability of solving problems and tackling challenges,” Lahtela said.
“They don't always have the perfectly matching expertise, but they are capable of finding solutions together and mobilizing other people to make things happen.”