Before moving to the Netherlands eight months ago, I knew biking would be a large lifestyle change for me as the bike is an integral part of everyday life here. I was not prepared for the traffic lights, roundabouts and all the do’s and don’ts of cycling culture.
I was not prepared for the traffic lights to hit red when COVID hit, which negatively impacted my ability to form connections and travel. I was not prepared for the roundabouts of job searching as an expat during a global pandemic. Learning the do’s and don’ts of the Dutch culture was more challenging because I was not experiencing the Netherlands in its normalcy.
I practiced riding my bike daily
Along with practicing riding my bike, I focused on three areas:
1. Learning new methods of communication to connect with others:
COVID changed the way we communicate. Overnight, we shifted from in-person conversations to online modes of communication, such as video conferencing, phone calls, texts or email. When you add a six- to 12-hour time difference on top of that, communicating with your loved ones and professional network becomes even more complicated. I worked to adapt to the situation by focusing on non-verbal communication during video calls, coordinating moments to connect with people in multiple time zones and by going back to the basics of sending handwritten letters.
2. Teaching myself Dutch and new business skills:
I began to teach myself Dutch by setting weekly goals. I focused on learning new vocabulary daily and began watching Dutch cartoons for a more entertaining way to learn. I also used this time to develop business skills that interested me, such as digital marketing, by obtaining Google Ads certifications.
3. Working at a local job to experience Dutch culture:
We are always told that our next job should be a step up or, at worst, a lateral move. While working at the post office, everyone spoke to me in Dutch. This made it possible for me to practice my Dutch vocabulary in a moment in time where I otherwise would not have been able to interact with Dutch native speakers. I was also able to immerse myself in the Dutch working style.
These combined experiences expanded my cultural horizons and fortified my connection with the country I now call home. A career move is not always about the new title you have, but the unique experiences you go and grow through. Sometimes it’s necessary to take a step back to take a leap forwards.
I know how to ride a bike, and I can’t wait to ride my bike to my new job
I am ecstatic to have joined the Medline Europe team as a Junior Product Manager! I am thoroughly enjoying working with cross-cultural teams, and I look forward to growing as a global professional at Medline.
Vanessa Malagon
Junior Product Manager, Medline Europe
Vanessa is a marketer, storyteller and global professional working in the Netherlands. She is passionate about cultivating community, public speaking, crafting messages and travelling. Her educational background is in entrepreneurship and innovation, and marketing. Outside of work, you can find her salsa dancing, trying new recipes or hiking. Learn more on LinkedIn.
2 March 2021
