At Octagon Professionals, our team is made up of expats and internationals from all around the world. Many of us know first-hand what it’s like to start a new life in a completely different country. These shared experiences allow us to truly understand and support the challenges that international companies face when they enter the Dutch market. This week, we are pleased to share a personal reflection from our colleague Laura from Colombia. She opens up about her journey of learning Dutch and how it helped her embrace Dutch culture, build deeper relationships, and find a true sense of belonging in her new home.
The first impression: a country fluent in English
“When I first visited the Netherlands as a tourist, one of the things that amazed me most was how almost everyone spoke English so well,” Laura recalls. “It was quite a surprise, especially coming from a country where few people have access to a second language.”
This discovery played a big part in her decision to move to the Netherlands. English proficiency made integration easy, at least at first. However, she soon realised that while you can live here comfortably without learning Dutch, truly connecting with the country’s people and culture requires understanding the Dutch language.
Why learning Dutch matters
Did you know that the Dutch language is the third most widely spoken Germanic language in the world, with nearly 23 million speakers? It’s officially recognised in six countries. While it may not rival English in numbers, it holds great cultural and social value for anyone who plans to stay in the Netherlands long-term.
So, is learning Dutch essential? Laura believes it depends on your perspective. “You can get by without it,” she says, “but life becomes richer, easier, and more rewarding when you do.”
Building relationships through language
Making friends as an adult in a foreign country is never easy. In the Netherlands, this can be even more challenging, as many Dutch people form lasting friendships early in life. Yet, as Laura discovered, knowing the Dutch language can open new doors to genuine friendships.
“I’m lucky to have a Dutch partner who speaks English fluently,” she explains. “But in social settings, there comes a point when everyone switches to Dutch. I understand why—jokes and expressions often lose their charm when translated.”
Knowing even a few Dutch words helps break the ice and shows genuine effort to connect. As Laura beautifully puts it, “Language sparks more interest. It makes you more excited when you have a language in common with someone.”
Learning Dutch at work
The Netherlands offers countless career opportunities for internationals. You can work and thrive here using English, especially in international environments like Octagon Professionals. Yet, Laura points out that learning Dutch can make a big difference in certain situations.
“For example, we often contact the IND or Belastingdienst for work,” she explains. “Many officials speak mainly Dutch, and if you can’t follow them, it slows down processes and causes frustration. Speaking Dutch makes things smoother and helps build stronger professional relationships.”
Daily life and the feeling of belonging
Laura also shared how not speaking the Dutch language sometimes left her feeling disconnected from daily life. “Once, my train stopped unexpectedly, and the announcement was only in Dutch. I had no idea what was happening. That sense of not understanding can make you feel like a tourist in your own life.”
She admits that she once saw learning Dutch as an obstacle, but now views it as an opportunity. “It’s a window to truly belong and be part of Dutch society. It’s not about perfection—it’s about connection.”
Tips for learning Dutch effectively
Laura and her Dutch colleagues shared a few practical tips to make the journey of learning Dutch enjoyable and natural:
- Start speaking early: Don’t fear making mistakes. Dutch people appreciate your effort.
- Use it daily: Watch films with Dutch subtitles or listen to Dutch music.
- Read simple books: Children’s stories are perfect for beginners.
- Volunteer: It helps you meet locals and practise naturally.
- Keep a word journal: Write down new words you see and try to use them daily.
- Take certified courses: Check out DUO-approved academies for structured learning, (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs), the government educational agency.
Connection through language
Ultimately, language goes beyond communication; instead, it builds bridges. Moreover, when you make an effort to learn someone’s language, you show genuine interest in their world. As Laura explains, “It’s a way of saying, ‘I see you.’ In this way, learning Dutch becomes much more than a skill, it becomes a bridge that connects people and cultures in a truly powerful way.”
Final toughts
At Octagon Professionals, we support businesses and their employees as they grow and integrate into Dutch society. Whether you’re an expat learning to navigate life in the Netherlands or a company building an international team, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to learn how we can make your journey smoother.
