Going local or global?

By: Together Abroad 04-12-2014 10:21 PM
Categories: ** HR Trends in Recruitment,

Finding the perfect job as an international in The Netherlands can be tough. What makes it more difficult is that Dutch companies may prefer to hire only local staff – small- to medium-sized (SMEs) companies who operate locally might not have a need to hire internationals.

An executive at a recent Offshore Energy conference, noted that results were achieved faster and with more efficiency when everyone spoke the same language and had the same cultural background. Also, local staff possess an adequate knowledge of English.

In addition, not only could it be more efficient, hiring local staff may be cheaper as there is no 30% tax rule, no relocation costs, or expat perks such as home leave for an organisation to consider. Companies looking for fast, easy results may choose to hire locals.

However, take comfort that there are many international companies that are open to the challenge of working across cultures and languages. Indeed, their profit may depend upon a global reach. Also, companies searching for new markets have had to adapt to different cultures and ways of working as part of good business strategy. This has made them more amenable to hiring international staff.

Organisations are also more likely to hire outside of national borders if local skills are not up to par. Many sectors such as oil, gas and information technology are complaining of lack in skills and experience and are casting a wide net to find talent. Moreover, knowledge of the Dutch language may not an immediate requirement in these positions.

It is a conundrum that might not have a direct answer – companies looking for the right talent need to weigh the pros and cons before they choose to hire locals or internationals.

By Sue Lawrence

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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.

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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

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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".

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