Finding a job as a new expat arrival in the Netherlands

Expats arriving in their chosen country and searching for a job once they’ve settled in may be doing things the hard way!

Searching for the perfect job in a new country is often an intimidating experience as most new arrivals have no idea at all how things work in their chosen sector, nor how the job itself deviates from the home country’s norms. For many, the only answer is to think outside the box and act outside their own comfort zone.

Most expats arriving in the Netherlands don’t realise how networked the jobs scene is, with many locals getting good positions simply because of someone they knew from their student days. Fraternities, sororities and other such clubs have a lot to answer for when it comes to bagging the best opportunities in their world of work. The answer for expats is to begin creating their own networks as soon as is possible.

Whether you love or hate social media, it’s one way to find people to populate your very own social network. It’s not necessary to meet up in person, although it might well be fun, and newbies should bear in mind that full-time jobs in the Netherlands often demand more time than those back at home. WhatsApp and Skype are good for starters, and asking for advice or even help can often be the start of a beautiful, useful friendship.

Starting your own blog on a subject about which you’re passionate is another way to meet new people with similar views. Linking in to a job you’d love to have may well result in an irresistible offer, and sending a video message rather than the normal cover letter stating your qualifications can also increase your chances of getting hired as it’s a demonstration of your out-of-the-box mindset and motivation.

For newly-arrived expat professionals whose job searches are taking far too long, it’s time to remind yourself of your top talents, achievements and value to others by writing a list and reading it every morning. This gives the huge confidence boost necessary for you to convince a potential employer you’re exactly what he and his company need at this point in time. It’s best explained by that hoary old saying – if you don’t succeed, try, try, try again – plus the fact that you’re as good as you believe you are.