When Career Confidence Doesn’t Cross Borders and How Expats in the Netherlands Can Rebuild It.

“In My Country, I Was Seen as an Expert”

“Back home, I was respected.I had a career I was proud of.Here? I feel like I’m starting all over again.”

That’s what Aisha, 38, told us during her intake session.

She moved to the Netherlands from South Africa with her partner and two children.A fluent English speaker, she had over 12 years of experience in Human Resources, including management roles at international firms.

She wasn’t just looking for “a job.”She wanted to grow. Contribute. Lead.

But six months in, she had sent over 40 applications.And received only two automated rejections.

Her LinkedIn inbox was quiet.Her confidence? Slowly fading.

“I didn’t expect it to be easy,” she said.“But I didn’t think it would feel… invisible.”

The Reality for Highly Skilled Expats in the Netherlands

Every year, thousands of talented professionals relocate to the Netherlands — for love, for opportunity, for family.

They bring degrees, experience, and ambition.

But many feel stuck once they arrive.

• The job market feels closed.

• The roles don’t match their background.

• Their past achievements don’t seem to count.

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They begin to ask themselves:

• Am I still relevant?

• Do I need to start over?

• What am I doing wrong?

  
  

The truth? You're likely not doing anything wrong.

But the Dutch job market — while international in appearance — operates with its own norms, assumptions, and barriers. Especially for those arriving without a local network.

What Makes Career Change So Hard for Expats?

Let’s break down some common (and often hidden) challenges:

1. No Local Experience or Network

Many hiring managers in the Netherlands prefer candidates with local references or experience in the Dutch context. Without those, your CV may be skipped, even if you’re highly qualified.

2. Misunderstood Credentials

Degrees from non-EU countries can be misinterpreted or undervalued. A Master’s or PhD might not automatically be understood in terms of local equivalence unless clearly explained.

3. Language Assumptions

Even when jobs are posted in English, some organizations implicitly prefer Dutch speakers — especially for client-facing or public sector roles.

4. Cultural Differences in Applications

Dutch applications favor modesty, directness, and practical tone. Many expats unknowingly oversell or structure their application in ways that don’t align with local expectations.

5. Confidence and Identity Loss

Work is often a big part of our identity. When you go from being respected and effective to unemployed and overlooked, it deeply impacts your sense of self.

What Worked for Aisha — and What Could Work for You

After six coaching sessions, Aisha was interviewing again — with renewed clarity and confidence.

Here’s what we focused on:

Step 1: Clarify the Goal

We helped her define what she really wanted: not just “any job,” but meaningful work that used her people skills and leadership experience — even if in a new format.

Step 2: Translate Experience

Together, we restructured her CV and LinkedIn to clearly communicate her impact and adaptability — using language Dutch recruiters understand.

Step 3: Understand the System

We demystified Dutch job types (permanent vs. interim), industry expectations, and how to recognize real vs. symbolic job postings.

Step 4: Explore New Pathways

We mapped out potential further studies or certifications (such as HRM modules or Dutch labor law courses) that could bridge local gaps.

Step 5: Build a Local Network

Instead of cold applications, we focused on informational interviews, local events, and targeted outreach — a method that opens far more doors.

Step 6: Rebuild Confidence

We addressed mindset, identity loss, and burnout. Because a strategic plan only works when you're mentally strong enough to follow through.

5 Career Tips for Expats in the Netherlands

If you’re in a similar situation, here’s where to begin:

1. Don’t Start with Job BoardsStart with clarity. What do you actually want? Where do you thrive? Then align your job search accordingly.

2. Localize Your StoryTailor your CV and LinkedIn to explain how your past experience translates here. Use local job language. Be specific.

3. Talk to Real PeopleNetworking is not optional. It’s how most jobs are filled. Start small — a coffee chat with someone in your field can go further than 10 online applications.

4. Be Willing to PivotYou might not land the exact same role you had back home — at least not right away. Consider adjacent industries or temporary roles as stepping stones.

5. Invest in SupportYou don’t need to do it alone. A coach helps you see what’s next, not just what’s missing.

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You’re Not Starting from Zero

You’re starting from strength — but in a new environment that needs a new strategy.

At NEQXT, we support expats who feel stuck or lost in career transition.

We don’t offer one-size-fits-all answers.We help you ask better questions.We build structure, not pressure.We guide — without taking over.

Whether you're considering a career shift, further education, or rediscovering your professional identity:

You don’t need to rush. You need direction.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Let’s talk.

NEQXTFor the in-between phase. And the bigger picture.Career coaching for expats in the Netherlands.In English. Tailored. Actionable.