Netherlands. Do you have to learn the language to KEEP a contract?

[Durbs]

I understand the attitude bit, but logically it doesn't make sense to learn a language when they have already learned it the other side (Dutch to English).

Absolutely not, if you make a small effort to learn a few greetings and phrases, you will be surprised how will this will be received.

I worked in the Netherlands a fair bit and even though i struggled to learn the language to a proper conversational level, the bits i could and did use when conversing with my Dutch colleagues went down very well.

[foxbat3000]

Dutch

I once said to the Dutch that they need to get people speaking their language or they'll end up like the Scots speaking English with a strange accent.

[TykeMerc]

In my opinion it's not essential, but it is good manners and creates a very good impression.

I'm dreadful at languages, but I've found that even my awful attempts have been appreciated or at least provided positive amusement.

[saigon triumph]

No need to learn dutch

I have been contracting in the netherlands for nearly 4 years. Although i have actually learnt dutch there is no need to. Basically they all speak really good english unless you are in some little town which i doubt. most of my contract were in english and it opens u p a few more doors if you speak dutch but i only og t a couple of dutch contract towards the end. the rest were for american firms based there where it is an advantage to have good english. i have friend who have been here 5 years and don t speak a word of dutch so don't worry about it. But if you are thinkin of staying longer you should consider it as it is pretty easy to pick up. It is also a germanic language like english so you should pick it up pretty quick.

Veel success

[snaw]

I tried for a while, but the Dutch twig you're an english speaker and start speaking english at you so they can practice.

And no, I'd say not in Holland, in my experience (Other countries yes).

[meridian]

This little gem is nice:

http://www.jobserve.com/SAP-BW-Test-...22346B05.jsjob

"Dutch speakers preferred!

Contact ASAP!

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race..."


Are English-only speakers a race?