Exploring Professional Opportunities via iSprout in the Netherlands as a South African What to Expect!

As a South African professional seeking new opportunities abroad, the Netherlands offers an attractive destination for career growth and development.

Known for its strong economy, high standard of living and progressive work culture, the Netherlands presents numerous prospects for individuals looking to expand their horizons.

This resource will equip you with the essential knowledge about the consumer market and securing employment, navigating cultural nuances, the common challenges and practical advice. Whether you are an experienced professional or a recent graduate eager to kick-start your career, this guide will empower you with the necessary tools to make informed decisions and thrive in this vibrant European country.

Table of Contents 

1. Dutch Culture

2. The Netherlands vs Holland

3. Food and Drink

4. Things to embrace in the Netherlands as a South African

5. Consumer Market 

1. Adapting to Dutch culture is key to your success in the Netherlands.

Here are a few tips and insights from iSprout on how you can adapt, fit in faster, and integrate  into your new professional role in the Netherlands!

1.1 Learn the Language: While many Dutch people speak English, making an effort to learn Dutch can greatly enhance your integration. It shows respect for the local culture and can improve your daily interactions.

1.2 Embrace Direct Communication: Dutch communication is known for its directness and transparency. Straightforwardness in conversation is a common cultural trait, so don’t take it personally.You can feel free to be open and honest in your communication.

1.3 Punctuality Matters: The Dutch value punctuality, whether at work or in social gatherings. Arrive on time and respect deadlines to demonstrate your commitment to the Dutch work culture.

1.4 Build Trust through Follow-Through: In Dutch culture, trust is built by setting correct expectations and following through on promises. Consistency and reliability are highly regarded.

1.5 Respect Individuality: Dutch culture values individualism and personal space. Respect people’s privacy and avoid intrusive questions.

2. People make the common mistake of referring to the Netherlands as Holland.

The Netherlands:

The Netherlands is the official name of the country located in Northwestern Europe.

It consists of 12 provinces, including two that make up the region of Holland.

Holland:

Holland refers to two specific provinces within the Netherlands: North Holland (Noord-Holland) and South Holland (Zuid-Holland).

These provinces are located in the western part of the country and include cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague.

In summary: 

Holland is a region within the Netherlands, and using “the Netherlands” is the correct way to refer to the entire country. 

While it’s common for people to use “Holland” informally when talking about the Netherlands, it’s more accurate to use the country’s official name, the Netherlands, to encompass all 12 provinces.

Here are some key aspects of Dutch cuisine:

3. Food and Drink

3.1 Diverse Food Selection:

Dutch cuisine offers a diverse range of dishes, with influences from neighbouring countries like Germany and Belgium.

3.2 Traditional Dutch Food: 

Some traditional Dutch foods include the following:

• Haring:  Raw herring fish, often served with onions and pickles.
• Poffertjes:  Miniature fluffy pancakes.
• Bitterballen:  Deep-fried balls filled with a mixture of beef or veal ragout.
• Stroopwafels:  Waffle-like cookies filled with syrup.
• Erwtensoep: A hearty pea soup, especially popular in the winter.
• Cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, with Gouda and Edam being well-known varieties.

3.3 Bread and Pastries: 

Dutch people enjoy bread and pastries, with various types of bread and sweet treats like Dutch apple pie. For lunch, the Dutch mostly have “boterham”, which is a sandwich with cold meats, cheeses and spreads.

3.4 Drinks: 

Dutch people enjoy a variety of drinks, including beer (Heineken is a famous Dutch brand) and Jenever which is a Dutch gin.

3.5 Eating Habits: 

Breakfast is typically simple, and lunch is often a sandwich. Dinner tends to be the main meal of the day.

3.7 Food Festivals:

 The Netherlands hosts various food festivals and markets where you can experience local cuisine.

Overall, Dutch food culture reflects a blend of tradition, international influence, and regional specialities. It’s an integral part of Dutch identity and a delightful experience for food enthusiasts visiting the country.

4. Things to embrace as a South African moving to the Netherlands.

South Africans moving to the Netherlands may find themselves embracing a more structured and efficient work environment while also enjoying pace during their free time.

Bicycling Culture: In both South Africa and the Netherlands, outdoor activities play a significant role in daily life.

Community Involvement: Get involved in local communities and activities. Participating in clubs, events, and volunteering can help you build connections and feel more at home.

Tolerance and Inclusivity: Embrace the Dutch values of tolerance and inclusivity. The Netherlands is known for its progressive and inclusive policies, so respecting and supporting these values can help you integrate into society.

Natural Beauty: While you may miss the natural beauty of South Africa, acknowledge the scenic landscapes and parks in the Netherlands. The country offers its own unique beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.From the picturesque canals in Delft and Amsterdam to the fields of tulips during spring or the hilly vineyards around Maastricht, the Netherlands offers an array of beauty to captivate you.

5. How can South Africans compare the consumer market to South African prices?

When comparing shops in the Netherlands to South Africa, it’s essential to consider the cost of living and how it impacts shopping expenses. Here’s a comparison based on the provided information:

Cost of Living: The cost of living in the Netherlands is significantly higher than in South Africa due to the fact that food and housing is more expensive, however Dutch based salaries are proportionate to the cost of living, meaning overall earning

The average cost of living in the Netherlands is approximately 121% more expensive than in South Africa. This has a direct impact on shopping expenses. 

Grocery Prices: Groceries in the Netherlands are approximately 50.8% more expensive than in South Africa. This means that everyday grocery shopping can be more expensive in the Netherlands.

Restaurant Prices: Restaurant prices in the Netherlands are about 54.7% higher than in South Africa. Dining out and eating at restaurants may also be more costly in the Netherlands.

Overall Cost: In summary, shopping in South Africa is generally more affordable compared to the Netherlands due to the lower cost of living, including groceries and dining out.

However, it’s important to note that the availability of products and the shopping experience may also vary between the two countries, so personal preferences and needs should be taken into account when making shopping decisions.

Please keep in mind that these comparisons are based on average data, and individual shopping habits and preferences can vary widely.

Here is a list of how pricing compare to South Africa in 2023

By following these tips from iSprout, you can integrate into Dutch culture more smoothly and enjoy your experience in the Netherlands.