My own journey: From physics to Finland
Originally I have studied physics - and I can honestly say that 20 years ago (like in this photo) I was a real nerd, super shy, who had to learn it the hard way to survive in a corporate office after I got my first job after graduation in the energy and finance markets.
The four years in my first job brought me a steep learning curve, not just in professional knowledge, but also in how my self-confidence grew. Shortly before turning 30 I had the feeling "I want more from life!" - and moved to Finland just on my own.
It's not rocket science to be a good boss!
In Helsinki, I climbed the career ladder quickly, worked three years in investment banking and finally got a manager position in Finland's biggest energy company, which also allowed me to hire new talents to the company myself.
Being a manager and guiding my team members was an incredibly fulfilling experience. This was the feedback I got from my team:
"You have been a true leader, listening to us, driving our cause and keeping the team spirit high. You really enabled us to do our work better!"
I believe every employee should feel like this about their boss!
When life gives you lemons...
I know how it feels to be not happy at work, feeling drained although the job looks great on paper - I once even suffered under a narcissistic boss and figured out a successful strategy how to change my job for the better.
In June 2025 I faced a new challenge: I got laid off due to the company's saving program.
However, I already had a plan B: I had worked as a career coach as a side business for 3 years, so decided to do this full-time and became an entrepreneur.
Lessons learned here: Even a permanent job is not secure - but if you take responsibility for yourself you can deal with any challenge!
My mission as a career coach
Since 2022, I have supported people through 1:1 coaching, group programs, workshops, masterclasses and keynote speeches, always with the goal of giving them a fresh perspective how they think about their careers.
My work goes beyond job applications or surface-level advice: I help people understand themselves, challenge limiting beliefs and make confident, future-proof career choices. My mission as a career coach is to help capable, ambitious professionals break free from frustrating jobs and poor leadership - and step into roles where they are truly seen, valued and recognized.
You might know me from collaborations with
"Michaela has done a wonderful job in working with our workshop participants - creating a safe environment, encouraging us to open up and providing valuable tools we were able to implement right away. I can highly recommend Michaela’s workshop and coaching to anyone who would like to set new goals and understand how to best reach these goals."
The Helsinki Spouse Program
"Michaela Kettner's keynote on "Finding a job is like dating" was incredibly inspiring, focusing on self-confidence, self-improvement, learning and growing."
"She wonderfully narrated how invested we need to be when looking at job postings, crafting our CV and cover letter in accordance with the job opening."
Participants of the Career Bootcamp organized by the City of Espoo