Noor : Dutch investigator at Majors Consultants

Can you introduce yourself and your professional background?

I am only 19 years old, I have very recently graduated from high school, in 2020. Then I took a gap year. I first found a job in grocery preparation, in a drive-through. Then, I realized that with my good level in Dutch, French and English, I could look for something with that. First, I found another survey job, then, thanks to MisterBilingue, at Majors Consultants. Recently, I became a dental secretary.

How long have you been in France?

For 14 years, since I was 5 years old! I came with my parents.

Do you often return to the Netherlands?

Before COVID we tried to go at least once a year, to see our family. So I know it well. And here we speak Dutch too, we also have Dutch TV.

How were you recruited by Majors Consultants?

Someone from the company called me saying that they had seen my profile on MisterBilingue and asking if I was still available and interested.

How did you hear about MisterBilingue?

I searched for jobs for bilinguals on the internet, found the site and signed up.

Did you have a follow-up from MisterBilingue for your interviews?

To be honest, I didn't really have an interview. I have the impression that for every job that requires a bilingual Dutch level, there is not really an interview. However, I regularly receive emails from you with tips and tricks for interviews.

Did you encounter any particular difficulties in your job search?

Before MisterBilingue, yes, I did. I think COVID was a factor, especially when you don't have a lot of experience or a high level of education. When everything got back to normal, it was fine, frankly. But it's true that I mostly find jobs that require English or Dutch, otherwise it would be a bit complicated. With MisterBilingue, it was super fast. I signed up, and within a week I was called.

What was your first impression when you started working?

My first job was quite difficult, it was very physical, not necessarily pleasant. The second one was a telecommuting job, but there was still a follow-up. Afterwards, I enjoyed working for Majors Consultants because I was on site, I had my own office, my own space. They were also flexible on the schedule, which is great as I am young.

Do you notice any differences between France and the Netherlands regarding people’s mindset?

Yes, even though I didn't live there for long, my parents talk to me about it a lot. In France, people are more reserved, less direct. It's much more sustained, in retrospect. In the Netherlands, all questions are asked, there is no hesitation. For example, when I call people for interviews in Dutch, they are on a first-name basis. When I call people in France, they are much more reserved and square.

Is there a Dutch dish that you can recommend?

Yes, there are many! For example, in the Netherlands we like to eat raw sardines with onions. We eat them that way, in the street, it seems strange but it really tastes good. Then, everything that is Belgian, the famous fricadelles.