Adapting a Dutch expression, I can definitely say that ‘banen liggen niet voor het oprapen’, which translates into ‘jobs don’t lie for plucking’. Especially now, during the financial crisis, and in most cases even more if you are a foreigner, it is difficult to find suitable work. What I also witnessed during a couple of extremely crowded career fairs is that a lot of people are at the moment looking for work. So I guess I’m not the only one…
After rounding up my studies and getting all the residence paperwork done, I approached the quest for work systematically, registering on job portals or with agencies, trying to build a network, and spreading the work about my search. I also gained some more experience doing an internship and some volunteer work, and began learning Dutch. Yet quite some time has passed and I’m just not there yet.
I at one point lost count of the applications I sent, whether they were specific or open. I kept flexible and looked outside my work field as well, to increase my chances. I must admit I wasn’t truly enthusiastic about every position I applied for. But every now and then one job would appear that I would have a genuine strong interest for, at which point I would write a sparkling cover letter and around which I would even spend an afternoon fantasising. And then a couple of days of anxious waiting, during which I would make a phone call to inquire about the process. And then nothing.
What I find more painful than receiving a rejection for a position (although the automatically-generated ones are quite bad), is receiving no reaction at all. I understand there must have been many applicants, nonetheless, my self confidence is mostly tested in situations like this.
It’s hard to maintain the high spirits and drive during jobhunting when facing constant refusals, silences, and so on. I do not own a coping strategy myself (I would love to hear whether you do and what that is though), but often take a couple of days dwelling in negative energy, and than a couple more trying to get distracted from the job search.
Eventually I need to snap out of it and get back to work, as looking for work often feels like work itself, doesn’t it?
For an expat moving to the Netherlands, getting the right direction is very important. It's important that one knows which steps and direction to take. Linda is an exceptionally talent counselor, her advice has helped me land a job within a week of coming to the Netherlands. I am grateful for her mentoring and look forward to a great working relationship in the future.
Dr. Hrishiraj S | Clinical Research & Affairs Manager
Together Abroad provided expert advice on personal branding including developing a top-notch, market-aware CV, highly tailored job applications, and approach strategies with potential employers in the Netherlands. Furthermore, I found them be highly knowledgeable in key related fields such as recruitment strategy, immigration law, contracts, labor agreements, and (un)employment benefits. I would recommend Together Abroad to anyone who needs professional help with transitioning to a new career.
A. Aboufirass | Structural Engeer
Linda is a big mind. She thinks about things that the rest normally overlook. The insight she has about the dutch job market can only be achieved through years of experience and persistence.
Her business savvy is complemented by her mastery of understanding the client's needs and requirements. For my career I could say, she was the “Mary Poppins”, who guided me through thick and thin and helped me to land a career in the Netherlands
S. Bhattacharjee | FP&A Manager
If you are going to enlist the services of a "Career Coach" look no further. The only person you want in your corner is Linda van Orsouw. As an expat, you absolutely want to work with a highly skilled and knowledgeable professional who knows their way around the Dutch career/employment/job market. Linda assisted me in writing and positioning my CV, helped me organize and prioritize my list of opportunities, coached me through mock interviews and was there when I got offered a senior position only 2 months later. When asked I will only refer to Linda and "Togetherabroad".
Mr. C. Joubert
Lead Workplace Strategy Consultant
Mr. C. Joubert
Lead Workplace Strategy Consultant