Lifelong learning, criticism and perfect match in the Netherlands

“Now, I have changed my life to make sure I work only on what I love.”

André Rieu

Welkom allemaal!

Hello everybody – it is nice to meet you again in this second post.

Today we are going to visit and talk about inspiring and innovative Holland- try to find an answer what should be known, what is recommended and what prohibited when looking for a job and willing for a promotion in the Netherlands.

In the beginning, I would like to thank you for participating in creating this post my 3 colleagues: Sylvia, Sascha, and Max – thank you for sharing your experience and all golden tips I got from you!

“Like what you do and do what you like”

Dutch are hard workers: they spend many years in school, then work a lot of time, still developing skills, doing many courses or part-time studies: lifelong learning– all for self-improvement. It is now not surprising that the Netherland takes the 3rd position as the most innovating country in Europe. And they are also effective in this what are they doing: and a part of effectiveness is to find a perfect match between company, position, and our capabilities. 

First we need to know our skills, potential and needs to find dreamed job – in other situation we will not succeed – and it is not welcome here!

“Dutch people seem to be very rude… all because of a learning purpose”

It is always good to know a country you want to live: especially when we are talking about society for whom feedback – in particular, this “negative one” is like a second skin. It is better for you to be prepared for many negative comments and criticism- but do not be afraid and do not take it too personally: it is all because of “innovative nature”. 

It is hard to improve things when you are not complaining, it is impossible to find another solution when everything seems to go round. 

“Personal network and a job interview”

Having a “working friends” is a huge advantage – not only they are able to provide you some golden tips, but also can ask whether there is a job position which is not released on the companies’ website… And often there can find you something to do! We know that Dutch pay attention to effectiveness and results – before even sending an email with your CV it is always recommended to call them and ask if they still search for an employee. 

Finally... you got an invitation to the company – maybe it is obvious, but… it is better for you not to lie during a job interview: just be honest, show your strengths and sparkles, and act like during standard conversation: with openness and kindness. 
Remember that the only satisfying result is a win-win situation: you need to feel well in a company and they need to be fulfilled because of this choice.

It is pointless to look for a job without any discerning: the more effort you put into it, the better work you can find – I hope that those suggestions and presented overview helps you in finding perfect job match in the Netherlands :)

Cheers

Natalia