Can you introduce yourself and your professional background?
I’m 36 years old. I was born in the Netherlands, Rotterdam and I’m living in France for 5 years.
Why did you choose to come to France?
Because of my husband. At that moment he was my boyfriend and he lived in France. So, that’s the reason why I moved to Paris.
Who did your recruitment at MisterBilingue? Did the person help you to get ready for the interview?
Her name is Margaux. She asked some questions, she told me how to prepare for the interview, she gave me tips like what kind of questions they could ask. She showed the way to the process, she guided me to prepare myself well for the interview.
I would definitely recommend it. Especially for people who speak multiple languages. That’s a good way to find a job
How did you know about the website?
I didn’t know the website, because I was surfing a lot, looking for international speaking jobs and it just popped up, I don’t remember exactly how. I was searching for “bilingual jobs” and I found it.
Is there a difference between the Netherlands and France regarding job search?
The process is quite the same. By experience, in the Netherlands, if they decide not to move forward with the job or the interview, you get an email or a call, they don’t let you guessing.
The difference is that, here, often there’s nothing. No mail, no call most of the time. A few times, the interview went good and then you never hear from them again
Did you go through some difficulties while looking for a job?
A lot of times, I found a job where it was described that they needed someone who speaks Netherlands and English. And then when I’d arrive, 6 or 7 times, they did expect you to speak french too, while they didn't mention French in the description. I know that my French is not on a professional level. I think that’s a bit mistreating for the people who don’t speak french.
What was your first impression when you started to work in France?
It was very positive. The company, very welcoming people. It felt familiar, they made me feel comfortable. Even though my french is not really good, they make the effort to understand when I’m speaking or asking some questions.
Any advice for people when they start looking for a job or start working?
From my experience, when you are looking for a job, sometimes it is a bit difficult to find a job. I was looking for a longtime: you can lose a lot of opportunities if you don’t speak a really good french. But don’t give up, keep searching, searching. That’s how I found the job that I’m really happy with! You’ll find something that will suit you. There were times that I thought I would never find a job, but there’s always hope! Just be patient, you are worth it.
I saw you speak Portuguese, how come?
I’m originally from Cabo Verde, that's why I speak Portuguese, but I’m born in Rotterdam.
