Panel Discussion: ‘Invisible Networks’ – How do the Dutch find jobs?

This panel series – which is intended for job seekers and employers alike – will reveal the “invisible” professional networks and open secrets of the informal ways to get a job in the Netherlands. This event will also serve as a networking opportunity with a chance to meet local employers.

Many careers in the Netherlands start via via, where job seekers learn about opportunities through their social networks. Casual (Dutch) conversations over a borrel or cup of coffee can result in getting your foot in the proverbial “professional door”. At the (often separate) alumni events, Dutch and international graduates get the opportunity to secure a job without a vacancy ever being posted publicly.

Our panel of Dutch and international experts from the University of Groningen, Hanze University of Applied Sciences and Noorderlink will discuss:

• How the Dutch way of professional networking really works?
• What the historical and social contributors to modern networking norms are?
• The true meaning of being “gezellig”
• The significance of student associations
• The role of alumni events

We’ll also hear directly from recent and soon-to-be university international graduates, as well as first/second generation Dutch people of color, about their experiences with job hunting and professional networking in the Netherlands.

The panel discussions will be followed by a networking session featuring regional employers and be coordinated by Make it in the North, the online platform connecting international job seekers and employers in the north.

The English discussion and networking event will take place on September 20 from 19:00 to 22:00 at the Remonstrantse Kerk (Coehoornsingel 14, Groningen). Tickets cost €5 and are available through City Central’s Evenbrite page. Please note: the CoronaCheck app will be required for entrance to this event.

Here, you can find further information and sign up.

Image: ©City Central Groningen