Go Netherlands! Introducing the new guide to working in the Netherlands

Audencia's Career Center and Alumni teams are delighted to to bring you “Go Netherlands!”, the guide to working in the Netherlands.

“Go Netherlands!” is a valuable resource for students considering a career in the Netherlands after their studies. Starting with HR professionals’ top tips and debunking the myths and realities of the workplace, Go Netherlands! also showcases the experiences of more than 20 alumni who have aced the challenge of finding a job and settling in the Netherlands.

This week, discover what the Audencia's alumni ambassador in the Netherlands, Matthieu Vonthron (GE 05), has to say.

After living and working in Germany, South Korea, Singapore and France, I arrived in Amsterdam 5 years ago. The biggest challenge in the move from France to the Netherlands was having to give up those long French-style lunch breaks with colleagues! Here, the Dutch typically eat a cold, light lunch (bread, fruit and dairy) in under 30 minutes. On my first day at work, my boss invited me for lunch (we both paid our share at the company canteen) and ordered a slice of bread, a portion of butter and a glass of milk. Once seated, he spread the butter on the toast and pulled out a miniature box of chocolate sprinkles (“hagelslag”) which he then delicately scattered over the buttered bread: that was his lunch!

If I have a single piece of advice for students and alumni who wish to work in this amazing country, it is to always be on time - one minute late is already late! Alongside punctuality, it is also advisable to be clear and precise with Dutch colleagues and friends as they typically dislike or misunderstand messages that are too implicit. This also means that the Dutch are very direct, so be prepared for (constructive) criticism. Unlike the team structure in France, hierarchy in the Netherlands is very "flat" or horizontal. Dutch team members are encouraged to speak out and challenge their managers. The work atmosphere is therefore much more open and transparent.

Speaking Dutch isn't required to settle down in the Netherlands, however, keep in mind that learning the basics will help you integrate locally.
And finally… the Dutch have a great sense of humour and love to have fun. I must warn you that they tend to get quite noisy when they do so. There is a time for work and a time for play so be prepared to work hard and play hard.

Read your copy of "Go Netherlands" here