As you all know, global talent mobility is on the increase; its an exciting time for globally mobile professionals. The global jobs market is booming and candidates no longer have to confine their careers to their home country, they can take the next step of their career in any part of the world, and of course The Netherlands and Northern Europe are prosperous economic regions and so are prime locations to take up an international role.
Another crucial aspect of international working is that by widening your career search internationally you can gain access to more higher grade roles (which may be in short supply in your own country), which means that you may be able to more easily acquire a promotion (or simply gain more/broader experience) by working internationally.
But, since there is more at stake with an international role, that is, you have moved your life to a new country, it is vital that you make a strong initial impact in your new job in order to set yourself up for long term international career success. And below you can find 6 tips to help you make a killer impression in your new international role.
- Learn the local language.
Of course, many of you will be able to speak Dutch, but many of you may not be able to, having been employed in Dutch companies where you can get by speaking just English. But, that may be all you do, just 'get by'. If you want to progress in the business ,you will need to be able to build strong relationships and influence and persuade native Dutch speakers who may hold positions of power and influence in the company.
And the best way to build these relationships with the power brokers within Dutch businesses will be to start learning to speak Dutch. You should start learning Dutch ideally before you even take up the assignment and follow this up with fast-track Dutch lessons when you take up post. - Make sure you know what your probationary period goals are
Most organizations will start you off on a 3 or 6 month probationary period, during which time you will need to meet certain performance, competency and learning goals in order that you can successfully pass your probationary period.
In some environments managers can be slow to produce goals and, if this happens, seize the initiative and either ask your manager for your goals or produce some goals for yourself which your manager can approve. This will impress your manager as it will show your commitment and self motivation. - Make use of all training and support
Ask your manager what training and support is available to help you meet your goals – and make sure you take full advantage of any available training. - Ask for an interim probationary review
If it isn't being done already, make sure to ask your manager for an interim probationary period review – about halfway through your probation – so if things are going wrong you have plenty of time to put it right. - Build strong relationships
You'll need to quickly forge strong relationships and collaborate well if you are to meet your probationary period goals. So ensure to identify and introduce yourself to your key contacts and colleagues in the first few weeks. In order to make a strong first impression on whoever you meet, try and learn some of the Dutch language and at least be able to greet in Dutch. Also dress to impress as research from comerecommended shows that 55% of the impact that we make when we meet new people is based on the way we dress, act and walk through the door. - Build trust and make early wins
First impressions last, so it is crucial that you make some 'early wins' and create a strong opening impression. If you see problems or inefficiencies then identify, suggest or even implement a solution that impresses your boss. Make an impact early on and you will create a lasting impression of being someone who can make a difference.
Copywrite Together Abroad