Finding Success in Internal Consulting Jobs in the Netherlands as a Foreign National: Personal Experience
Currently, many foreign nationals are looking for work in the Netherlands as the country offers many opportunities for job seekers from abroad. Especially, in big cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht, many big companies have offices and a wide variety of jobs are available. But how to actually find work in the Netherlands, especially as an internal consultant? I will share my experience in finding internal consultant jobs in the Netherlands as a foreigner.
First of all, it is important to know that finding a job in the Netherlands is not easy. Basically, you have to meet several requirements to be able to work in the Netherlands. You need to have a work visa, and also have a good command of English or Dutch. In addition, there is very stiff competition in the Dutch job market. Therefore, to increase your chances of getting a job, you must stand out and have valuable experience.
I am a chemical engineer and have had five years working experience in India. After planning a move to the Netherlands, I decided to find work as an internal consultant there. I knew that finding work as an internal consultant would be a major challenge as these companies tend to look for candidates with significant prior experience.
First, I did some research online for companies that might need an internal consultant. I submitted my application to several large companies in the Netherlands, including companies based in big cities such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam. I also use websites like LinkedIn and Indeed to find job openings.
After a few weeks, I received an invitation for an interview from a well-known consulting firm in Amsterdam. The interview lasted two hours and I was very nervous. However, I try to stay calm and answer their questions clearly and in detail. I also bring examples of previous projects I have worked on in India.
A few days later, I received a phone call from the company that I had been hired and that they would give me a work contract. I was very happy to hear the news and immediately prepared myself to move to the Netherlands.
After arriving in the Netherlands, I started working as an internal consultant for the company. My work involves working with various clients in various industrial sectors, helping them to optimize their operations and increase efficiency. I also work with a team of other internal consultants and together we achieve the company's targets.
One thing that really caught my attention while working in the Netherlands was the different work culture. In the Netherlands, there is a very relaxed work culture and no rigid hierarchies. All employees are valued and considered equally important, even administrative staff. This is a significant difference from the work culture in India, where hierarchies are very strong and junior employees are often seen as of little importance.
In addition, the company I work for is very open to new ideas and provides space for employees to grow. I was invited to attend international trainings and conferences to improve my skills and gain new experiences.
Within a few months, I felt I had found an excellent work environment and I loved working for the company. I feel connected to my colleagues and I am valued as a valued team member.
However, I cannot deny that being a foreigner in the Netherlands has its challenges. One thing I find difficult is finding affordable and comfortable accommodation in a big city like Amsterdam. In addition, I also discovered that Dutch culture is very different from my own. This requires adaptation and the ability to open your mind to new things.
However, these difficulties did not dampen my joy in finding a suitable job in the Netherlands. I am very grateful that I had valuable experience working as an internal consultant there and I feel I have learned a lot during my time in the Netherlands.
In conclusion, finding a job in the Netherlands as a foreigner is not easy, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. The keys to success are doing good research, standing out by having valuable experience, and keeping an open mind to different cultures and ways of working. In my experience, I have found that the working environment in the Netherlands is excellent and provides space for employees to develop and reach their potential. I hope that my experience can provide inspiration and useful information for people who wish to find work in the Netherlands as a foreigner.