In the past, people would have trouble talking with others from other countries. To counter this problem, people made lingua franca. Lingua franca is also known as a trade language or bridge language. In the past, one of the best-known lingua francas was French, Afrikaans, and Spanish. Today, English has established itself as the primary lingua franca.
Many countries already have a large population of English speakers. People who understand and speak English well often have more job opportunities overseas. However, some countries require adept English speakers to know a bit of their language at least. The Netherlands, for example, isn’t a heavy-English speaking country. So if you’re a native English speaker or just good at the language and want to work in the Netherlands, don’t worry.
Although the primary language in the Netherlands is Dutch, most major cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague have a good number of English speakers. Therefore, getting a job in these cities would be easier than in other places in the country. Here are some facts and tips if you’re job hunting in one of the world’s best countries to live:
Job Opportunities in the Netherlands
For expats and those wanting to work in the Netherlands, you’ll find that the country has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world. In a 2019 study, the country has a 3.2% unemployment rate, well below the EU average of 6.2%.
Job Sectors in the Netherlands
A number of growing demands in specific fields are always a welcome sign for workers. In the Netherlands, job sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, energy, and logistics need workers. These sectors may also need help with their HR, which is why many workers often look for HR Courses in the Netherlands. With growing demand and several industries needing a helping hand, it can be tough not to land a job in the country.
But What if I Don’t Speak Dutch?
Being able to speak dutch isn’t a requirement to work in the Netherlands. Believe it or not, English is the most used language for business for many companies in the country. However, if you do know how to speak Dutch, it can be an advantage. You can also work as an English teacher, translator, or any English language-related job in the country.
For those who are just new to the language or don’t know it all, you may end up working with an international company. For those employed in smaller, private companies, you might need good handling of Dutch to be accepted.
Another edge for non-dutch speaking foreigners looking for work in the country is if they know how to speak French, any Scandinavian language, Spanish, and German. There is a high demand for expats who know these languages.
Qualifications
Aside from speaking good English or Dutch, another thing that’ll give you the edge in landing jobs in the Netherlands is a bachelor’s degree. You can visit Nuffic to know if your qualifications or profession are recognized in the country.
If you get an interview for a job application, recruitment or HR might want to have references from your past employers. Also, you need to bring diplomas, training certifications, licenses, and other relevant materials to make your application look more promising.
Working Permits
For people from the EU or European Union, all you need to do is register with the proper authorities. You can work and live in the Netherlands without permits. However, if you’re from anywhere outside the EU, you will need a work permit. Also, you need to have a residence permit with you.
Takeaway
The Netherlands is one of the best countries to work and live in. Although English isn’t the main language in the country, non-dutch speakers can still live and work in the country. With the tips mentioned above, you’ll soon be working in the Netherlands, even though your main language is English.
