HSBC Bank International's Expat Explorer survey is a yearly ranking of countries, listed according to expat satisfaction. The Netherlands, traditionally considered to be a welcoming, accepting and tolerant country, is currently ranking in the bottom half of the Expat Experience League (24th out of 31 countries).
The main concern of the expats involved in the survey is the difficulty in learning the language, which most likely weights negatively on the criteria of integration. The sample of the survey was mainly composed by USA, UK and French expats, who generally have difficulties learning other languages. However, anybody leaving in the Netherlands who is trying to learn the language, has encountered major difficulties, usually due to the relatively high prices of the courses (the cheapest offers ranging between 300 and 500 euro for a 12 weeks language course) and to the difficulty related to the practice of the language.
Dutch people, at least the ones living in big cities, quickly switch to English when hearing a distorted use of their language. Your Dutch friends, instead, will giggle and point out that your efforts are really cute, but apparently still not up to their standards. In this respect, the Dutch should learn from their Mediterrean neighbours, like the Italians: instead of switching to English, they will still speak Italian, but in a slower fashion and usually shouting so that you understand better.
To those who, regardless of the language, still have problems integrating in the Dutch society, the Dutch government has generously sponsored a whole series of video explaining how to “go Dutch”. Beware; they are slightly patronising on the point of learning the Dutch language. Still, have a look (and a laugh), you can find them on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkQtdwKJxuE, and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6r61CXkq0HE&feature=related
Despite the adults’ difficulties in integrating, young expat are having a great time in the Netherlands. In fact, the country ranks very high concerning children satisfaction: expat children seem to integrate in the Netherlands very easily, they tend to have healthy lifestyles and play more sports, and are less likely to feel nostalgic of their home country.
If you are a family planning to move to the Netherlands, you are in luck! Your children will enjoy themselves, they they will learn the language very fast, and you won’t have to worry about language courses because they could teach you. Also, social interactions with your child’s friends’ parents will provide an easy way to make new acquaintancs and smooth the process of integration in Dutch society.
Experiences of integration are subjective: what was your experience? Was it easy to find a job, or learning the language? Do you feel at home in the Netherlands? Tell us about it!
Find more about the Expat Explorer here: http://www.expatexplorer.hsbc.com/#/country/Netherlands
Naar Nederland: integrating in the Dutch society
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
Mr. C. Joubert
Lead Workplace Strategy Consultant