Our team would be happy to share their expertise to help you get the answers you are looking for. Feel free to contact us about your situation and any questions you may have.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Expert Talk Part 2: Retaining International Talent — A Practical Guide for Managers
In Part 1 of our Expert Talk series, we explored how navigating global DEI rules and regulations creates a solid foundation for inclusion. In Part 2, we moved from compliance to practice: what managers and HR leaders can do differently to retain international talent in their teams.
Retention is not about big statements or one-off initiatives — it’s about daily, proactive practices that ensure international employees feel valued, seen, and supported.
1. Switch from Reactive to Proactive Talent Management
Traditional Dutch-style talent management assumes employees will ask for growth opportunities. Many internationals and introverts won’t.
What managers can do:
This simple change can prevent talent loss due to feeling invisible or underappreciated.
2. Implement Reverse Mentoring
Reverse mentoring pairs a junior or international employee with a senior leader. It flips the traditional model — and offers surprising benefits.
What managers can do:
The result: leaders gain fresh insights, juniors feel empowered, and cultural gaps narrow.
3. Rethink Career Paths
Not everyone wants to “climb the ladder.” Many international professionals prefer horizontal growth — becoming specialists rather than managers.
What managers can do:
4. Make Reviews Inclusive
Performance reviews can unintentionally reflect cultural bias. For example, Dutch “assertiveness” may come across as rude in other cultures, while silence may be mistaken for disengagement.
What managers can do:
5. Recognise the Role of Networks and Partners
Retention doesn’t stop at the office door. Employees’ personal lives and networks heavily influence whether they stay.
What managers can do:
Looking Ahead
Retention is not just about keeping people. It’s about helping international professionals thrive so they can contribute at their best.
In our next Live Expert Talk on November 7th in Utrecht, we’ll dive deeper into building an inclusive company culture — the glue that holds these practices together.
This is a recap of part 2 of our Expert Talk Series: Unlocking Global Talent. To participate in part 3, "Creating an inclusive company culture for internationals" register here. Enjoy!
Our team would be happy to share their expertise to help you get the answers you are looking for. Feel free to contact us about your situation and any questions you may have.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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