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Internationalization of the labour market with Werf& and Marjan Stoit
Our Commercial Manager, Marjan Stoit, was recently interviewed by Werf& to discuss how international talent is a much-needed asset in the current labour market. She will be sharing her expertise on this subject on November 27th during an event that Undutchables is co-hosting with Werf& focused on the Internationalization of the Dutch Labour Market ('Internationalisering van de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt'). You can already get a sneak peek at her insights on this important subject by reading the full interview here (in Dutch) or checking out the highlights below.
According to Marjan, and her 25 years of expertise working with international companies and candidates in the Netherlands, the current labour market shortages have increased rather than decreased the need for internationalization within the Dutch labour market. There is so much potential in this talent pool but it does require some openness and adjustment on the side of the employers in the Netherlands.
- “There is still enormous scarcity in the labour market. That’s why we should welcome people to the Netherlands. It is important for the economy. And for companies I would say: look at international talent. If it can be an international, it is always an asset.”
- In reference to the Netherlands slipping from number 5 to number 9 in recent years on internationals’ list of most desirable countries - "But luckily we are still very attractive, and I truly hope it stays that way. I’m optimistic that a new government will also recognise this. Especially with the extreme labour shortages we’re facing, international talent is simply needed. The future is still very international. That’s why my message is: embrace international talent, because it is still less visible than other talent."
- Dutch employers also need to be open to international talent - “I always tell them: if Dutch fluency is not absolutely necessary for a role, then definitely consider an international candidate. They are often extra motivated. And ultimately, there’s no place where you learn Dutch faster than on the work floor. Maybe they don’t match your vacancy picture perfectly yet. But I’d say: look at the skills that are there and start from there. When you take a welcoming approach, you’ll often see that internationals become productive, ‘up and running’, very quickly.”
- “Internationals bring different perspectives, different experiences, different ideas. That’s why it’s so valuable to use them strategically. Diversity simply leads to more innovative ideas—that has been proven.”
- "Employers still often post their vacancies only in Dutch. I think that’s a missed opportunity. You exclude a large group who are suitable, but simply don’t apply.”
- "I still believe: whoever wants to embrace the future, embraces international talent.”
This remains a complex topic with many important factors to be considered. Which is why it is essential to keep the conversation going. Join Marjan and other industry experts in dissecting the world of international recruitment in the Netherlands during 'Internationalisering van de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt' on November 27th.
Please note: This event will be mainly in Dutch.
If you are interested in getting in touch with Marjan for more tailored insights into the labour market and how international recruitment can benefit your company you can reach out to her here.
Undutchables
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