Member Spotlight

Member Spotlight: Annebet van Mameren – New2NL

Education consultancy specializing in supporting international families in the Netherlands Hello! My name is Annebet van Mameren, an education consultant specializing in supporting international families in the Netherlands. I founded New2NL, my consulting company, almost 11 years ago. I'm Dutch, and my husband is an American from Philadelphia. We live in Amsterdam with our two sons, whom we are raising to be bilingual in both Dutch and English. How long have you been a member of the AABC? I have been a proud member of the AABC for nine years now. I initially joined to expand my professional network in Amsterdam, especially considering my American husband and the many American clients I serve. The AABC has been an excellent platform to meet wonderful people and establish lasting friendships, as well as collaborate professionally. I have even referred clients to fellow members, and some of our families have become close friends. Additionally, I had the opportunity to contribute an article to the AABC about the Dutch school attendance law. Many international parents may be unaware of this law, which mandates school attendance for children aged 5 to 16 (or 18 if they haven’t received a diploma yet). The law is taken seriously; parents can face fines if their child misses school outside of official school holidays. You can read more about the law in my article: https://aabc.nl/the-dutch-school-attendance-law. Can you share a memorable experience or success story you've had as a result of being part of the AABC? My most memorable experience with the AABC is a personal story: A couple of years ago, my (elderly) in-laws came to visit us in Amsterdam, from the US. We knew in advance it would be the last time for them to visit us, so we wanted to do something special. My father-in-law has celiac disease (gluten intolerance), so he is always a bit anxious when eating out at a restaurant he doesn’t know. I invited the former AABC Chairman, Dennis Cowles, to cook a special dinner at our home, as a surprise for my in-laws. Dennis is a very experienced chef, and he understood how to cook and serve a delicious dinner while keeping the gluten separate. I told my father-in-law that when he cannot go to the restaurant, we’ll ask the restaurant to come to us. It was a such a special night, and my in-laws talk fondly about it to this day. What's one cultural business difference between the Dutch and the American approach that stands out to you, and how have you managed it? The Dutch are known to be very direct. Since I am Dutch, I expect to get a straight answer to my question, and I know the other person expects the same from me. I have noticed that many Americans are more indirect. They sometimes answer in a different way than I had expected, or they keep on asking me the same question, which I had already answered the first time. But then it turns out that they had actually wanted to know something different, but felt it wasn’t polite to ask it that way. After all those years, I still find this a bit confusing. I mean, just ask me what you want to know. Then I give you the answer, and we move on. I can see that some people are a bit shocked by this approach. I think it is important to be clear, and I don't let you read between the lines. It is also more efficient this way.  Sometimes my clients ask me: “the teacher of my child said XYZ. What could they have meant by that?”. My answer is then “If they said XYZ, they mean precisely XYZ. They are not talking about anything else, and they are not complaining about you or your child as a person, they just want to solve the one situation they mentioned.” That is often a relief for the parents, and I am happy to have made the communication between them a little easier.  Amsterdam is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse culture. How does this environment influence or inspire your business operations? Last July, we celebrated the 10th anniversary of New2NL. At that moment I had assisted more than 1,000 families of all kinds of backgrounds. Now, this number has increased even more. I am very proud to help these families find their way in the Netherlands, and of course make sure the children land at a suitable school.  I have learned a lot from my clients about education and other things in the rest of the world, which I always find very interesting. I can use this knowledge when talking with the next clients who come from the same country.  I have also introduced some former clients of the same nationality or cultural background to each other. This way, the new arrivals already knew some people in Amsterdam, and they could share their experiences or celebrate their cultural traditions together with their new friends. That makes me very happy. If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a business in Amsterdam, what would it be? It is great to run your own business, but it is not always easy. You need to know a bit of everything: sales, marketing, building websites, SEO, taxes, copywriting, finances, social media, etc. You can outsource a lot of these things, but in the end, you are the one who is responsible for your own business.  When I started my business, it really helped to talk to many different business people, and ask them for advice. I also arranged some barter deals; I helped some of the business owners to find a school, and in return they provided me the service that I needed. This has been a great experience, and much cheaper too. Many of these business owners I met during the AABC events, or via their members. I am still very grateful for these contacts, and now I try to pay it forward by giving advice to new business owners in Amsterdam. What's a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that most members might not know? When I was eight years old, I already decided that I would have bilingual children later. So, that has worked out very well… And lastly, if you were to describe our business networking club in three words, what would they be? Inspiring, friendly, gezellig ☺

Member Spotlight: Moustafa El Kabbash

Organization consultancy / Housekeeping Expert, Freelancer ZZP’er I'm Moustafa El Kabbash, and I made quite a journey from Egypt to Dubai when I was 19, initially working in the hospitality industry. Later, after relocating to the Netherlands, I found myself in housekeeping. This unique journey gave birth to my idea of creating and consulting in the housekeeping departments of hotels. My company specializes in cleaning services, but it's more than just that. We offer organizational and consulting services, help structure businesses, assist in HR matters, and optimize housekeeping processes. Our primary focus is on hotels and cleaning companies. I believe our services can greatly benefit AABC members by enhancing the efficiency and standards of their operations. How long have you been a member of the AABC? I officially became a member this year, but I've been acquainted with the AABC since 2019 through Art Hotel. I had previously met members and attended several events, so I was familiar with the community before becoming a member. Can you share a memorable experience or success story you've had as a result of being part of the AABC? One of the immediate benefits I've experienced as an AABC member is the expansion of my professional network. This broader network holds the potential for future collaborations and opportunities, which is invaluable. What's one cultural business difference between the Dutch and the American approach that stands out to you, and how have you managed it? Well, I'd say the Dutch approach differs significantly from both the American and my previous experience in Dubai. The Dutch have a unique way of doing business, they are very organized and structured. In Dubai, it's more about dynamic ideas and being two steps ahead. Moreover, the Netherlands is known for its advantageous tax policies, which makes business operations more straightforward. What are some challenges you've faced in your business journey and how did being a part of the AABC help in overcoming them? Challenges are inevitable in any business journey. The beauty of being part of a community like AABC is that you get exposed to different ideas and perspectives. When facing challenges, it's reassuring to know that you can tap into the collective wisdom of fellow members, which often provides fresh solutions. Amsterdam is a vibrant city with a rich history and diverse culture. How does this environment influence or inspire your business operations? Amsterdam is synonymous with freedom and diversity. This city is alive 24/7, and its attraction and lifestyle are truly inspiring. My business thrives in such an environment, where dynamism and innovation are encouraged. If you could give one piece of advice to someone starting a business in Amsterdam, what would it be? Having been in Amsterdam since 2012, my advice is not to underestimate the initial challenges. The smartest way is to thoroughly understand the local culture, taxation, and networks from the outset. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. I regret waiting too long to do so; it's essential to break those barriers early. What's a fun or unexpected fact about yourself that most members might not know? I'm someone who fully embraces life and enjoys it to the max. I'm open-minded, approachable, and consider myself a free spirit, always ready to connect with others. And lastly, if you were to describe our business networking club in three words, what would they be? FUN, Professional, Energetic.

Member Spotlight: Saskia Maas

CEO Boom Chicago A longstanding AABC member, Saskia once held a seat on our board. We're so pleased that she has once again embraced our AABC community. Welcome back, Saskia! What is Boom Chicago? Boom Chicago is an Improv Theater and Comedy Club that has been showcasing outstanding English-language comedy acts for the last 30 years. Their comedic spectacles ignite laughter among both locals and visitors, all in the heart of the city center at their comedy haven on the Rozengracht. Unveiling Cultural Nuances: Dutch Honesty and American Curiosity At Boom Chicago and Boom Chicago for Business, Saskia uncovers distinctive cultural traits the Netherlands and the US. There's Dutch directness, a penchant for expressing thoughts directly, which is often perceived as blunt; while Americans tend to exude curiosity and boundless optimism. Navigating to Boom Chicago: Saskia's Unexpected Voyage During her time as an exchange student in America pursuing a master's degree, Saskia's path converged with the visionaries behind Boom Chicago, who were discussing the idea of launching a theater in Amsterdam. Today, Saskia commands the roles of CEO for both Boom Chicago and Boom Chicago for Business. In this capacity, she spearheads business development, global corporate program production, strategic initiatives, financial matters, sales, and public relations. Saskia, equipped with a master's degree in linguistics from Tilburg University, also completed Nyenrode's esteemed one-year Executive Management Development Program. Her leadership journey extends to THNK, the renowned school of Creative Leadership. Boom Chicago's History With an illustrious history spanning 30 years, Boom Chicago has been showcasing outstanding comedy acts in English, captivating audiences from its comedy sanctuary on the Rozengracht. Distinguished comedians including Seth Meyers, Jordan Peele, and the creative minds behind Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis, Brendan Hunt, and Joe Kelly) have graced the stage. The comedic legacy continues with the next generation taking the spotlight tonight! Click on the following links for more information about Boom Chicago: website, LinkedIn, Instagram and Wikipedia!

Member Spotlight: Maurice Pronk

Each month we'll feature a different AABC member in our new Member Spotlight, this month Maurice Pronk. Would you like to be featured in a future edition of our Member Spotlight? Get in touch with Veronica at marketing@aabc.nl

1. Who are you? (introduce yourself)

My name is Maurice Pronk, I am working for Atlas International Movers since 2015 and my current position is Business Development Manager (Sales & Marketing). My focus is to get in contact with HR/Global Mobility Managers who are working for corporate accounts. But I am also managing the Social Media accounts and website of Atlas International Movers.

2. When and why did you join the AABC?

If I am right, I joined the AABC directly in my first year at Atlas International Movers, so in the year 2015, 4 years ago. I joined the AABC because I want to get in contact with American people and companies in The Netherlands, to expand my network and to discuss if we can do business together. But, also to have a lot of fun and like we say in Dutch: “gezelligheid”!

3. Tell us about your business and how we can work with you.

Atlas International Movers is a moving company which is specialized in relocations all over the world. If a member of the AABC is moving abroad, we offer a 10% discount. In the request it has to be very clear that it is a request for an AABC member. The request can be sent to info@atlas-movers.com.

4. What are your tips and/or advice about doing business in the Netherlands?

I don’t have any specific advice or tips about this, but if an organization has to move a large number of employees within a certain period of time, we organize sessions in which we inform employees how to prepare and which steps they need to take to make the process as easy as possible. It is our goal to exceed customer expectations.

Member Spotlight: Myriam Clouët des Pesruches

Each month we'll feature a different AABC member in our new Member Spotlight, this month Myriam Clouët des Pesruches. Would you like to be featured in a future edition of our Member Spotlight? Get in touch with Veronica at marketing@aabc.nl

1. Who are you? (introduce yourself)

I am French and I have been living with my family in Amsterdam since 2013. I grew up in France and abroad and that experience as an ATCK (Adult Third Culture Kid) — followed by other expatriations as an adult — has given me a deep understanding of the mechanics of expatriation, of its complexity, especially at a human level. Human connection is something I feel passionate about in both my personal and professional lives. In that spirit, I have created Course Kids4Kids, a not-for-profit, solidarity run organized once a year in Amsterdam that enables kids to raise funds for kids in need. The goal is to raise children’s awareness of the importance of caring about others. I am also a business owner and I offer relocation support services. I advise and support companies and individuals in all stages of the relocation process. There again, the human dimension is at the core of my work. I serve as an advisor to my customers and offer them tailor-made services that fit their specific needs. Building a strong relationship with them and genuinely helping them is what motivates me in my job.

2. When and why did you join the AABC?

I joined the AABC in 2018 as I wanted to meet other companies and professionals. But to me, networking is not just a business thing. It is first and foremost the opportunity to meet other people, to discover and understand cultural differences. It has been a great experience so far, and I have also met some of the partners I am now working with. 

3. Tell us about your business and how we can work with you.

Relocation is a great adventure, but it is a challenging one, like any adventure. Preparation is key to make it successful both for the individual, and the employer. I help my clients in all stages of the process: it can be upfront, during and at the end, or at only one of those stages. I anticipate my clients’ needs, help them understand what needs to be done and support them throughout that often-stressful experience. I cover a wide array of topics, from advising on the content of the relocation packages offered by companies, to administrative matters and housing, as well as education or the integration of the spouse and the children in the new country for example. I offer my services for relocating to the Netherlands, as well as to other countries.  I first do a free intake session with them during which we discuss their specific needs and their priorities. Based on that assessment, I then propose them a tailor-made service in order to support them in the best possible way.  Depending on my client’s needs, I regularly partner up with other professionals such as moving companies, estate agents, financial advisors, but also education specialists, life coaches, recruitment agencies etc. I have met some of them thanks to the AABC. This is a great community to meet internationals and do business.

4. What are your tips and/or advice about doing business in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a great place to start a business because the concept of taking a chance and taking risks is very much part of the national culture. It is even encouraged with kids. Things are different in France for instance, where it tends to be a more risk-averse culture. So, if you are in the Netherlands and have an idea for a business, believe in yourself and go for it!

Member Spotlight: Sid Gupta

Each month we'll feature a different AABC member in our new Member Spotlight, this month Sid Gupta. Would you like to be featured in a future edition of our Member Spotlight? Get in touch with Veronica at marketing@aabc.nl

1. Who are you? (introduce yourself)

Hello ! I am Sid Gupta. I am a marketing strategist with nearly 15 years’ experience. My profession has taken me all over the world – from New Zealand to Africa to Europe; and I love exploring different cultures and working out the marketing implications thereof. It’s not all work and I do play :) Hit me up for a game of squash anytime !

2. When and why did you join the AABC?

I have been part of AABC for a couple of months now. I went to one of the events looking forward to expanding my business network. I came across like minded entrepreneurs in a very vibrant atmosphere and so I joined.

3. Tell us about your business and how we can work with you.

Small & big companies alike often struggle with reaching their full potential because of gaps in market intel. Having a good product may not be enough - to succeed, you need to know things like what are the most efficient customer acquisition channels for your business, how are your customers deciding what they buy, what is your competition doing and as such what should be your strategy. And this is where we come in – my company marQt iQ can get you the market intel you need to reach your full business potential. As we like to say - “ fortune favours the prepared !”

4. What are your tips and/or advice about doing business in the Netherlands?

Compared to the USA for example, businesses in the Netherlands take much longer in forming trusting relations with other businesses. A good understanding of the market and knowledge of your industry helps in accelerating this process. That is why you need good market & business intelligence!

Member Spotlight: Roel Strijker

Each month we'll feature a different AABC member in our new Member Spotlight, this month Roel Strijker. Would you like to be featured in a future edition of our Member Spotlight? Get in touch with Veronica at marketing@aabc.nl

1. Who are you? (introduce yourself)

My name is Roel Strijker, born in the east of The Netherlands, nearby Zwolle. When I was 6, my family moved to Hilversum (a city which is more in the central part of The Netherlands. Also the broadcasting city) due to my fathers work, which was giving and selling: Management Trainingen (Sales, Motivations, Communications, Leadership). So this was a topic mentioned a lot during breakfast, since we lived above the headoffice. Studied Fashion & Management on a private school in Doorn. And after gaining 20 years of experience in the field (retail and wholesale), I am doing now what I loved best: sales, people and fashion!

2. When and why did you join the AABC?

When I became a Personal Tailor I first became a member of other Dutch networkingclubs, simply to see (observe and learn) what is going on. And there is a lot going on! The Netherlands (as a business) attracts a lot of foreign businesses and therefor it might be very interested to see the possibilities within. After learning a lot, I decided to widen my horizon and put my scope on the international businessclubs. What better place to start at…. than America:)!

3. Tell us about your business and how we can work with you.

I will not sell you a custom made suit. As a Personal Tailor of custom made menswear. I only have to manage your expectations the right way. My promise to you is when you buy a suit from me, you will feel more successful and more happier! I will visit you at home or at the office (also for your colleagues at work we can have a Custom Made Event). So how can I even promise that? Simply by having a conversation with me. I will talk about the advantages of custom made clothing (suits, jacket, shirts, smokings, overcoats), the beautiful Italian and English fabrics, the best makes and the nicest sartorial (handmade) details. Obviously with the finest qualities. But more important: I will get to know you! For me it is the lifeline to gain access to your Personal Style. Hence the title: Personal Tailor. The headquarter is based in The Hague and a shop will be opened in Voorburg in March this year (2019)! So have a look at www.iamluigi.nl, or like us on Facebook and/or Instagram! In addition we have a fantastic Ambassadors Program. If you are an ambassador for our brand, you could end up with a fantastic custom made suit for free!

4. What are your tips and/or advice about doing business in the Netherlands?

Doing business in The Netherlands means in most cases, you don't have to wear a suit with a tie (obviously except when it's embedded in the corporate culture of the company). You could lose the tie easily. Even just a neat jacket ('Sack') with 'Slacks' is common. Though carelessness whilst wearing (ie American people tend to wear suits rather a size up) will kill the atmosphere. So pay attention to details and dare to look sharp. Call/ app me for any advice on the spot (+31(0)6 50600931)!

Member Spotlight: Petra Fisher

Each month we'll feature a different AABC member in our new Member Spotlight, this month Petra Fisher. Would you like to be featured in a future edition of our Member Spotlight? Get in touch with Veronica at marketing@aabc.nl

1. Who are you? (introduce yourself)

I am a single mom of a teenager, independent LinkedIn Trainer, a sole breadwinner, mortgage payer, house cleaner and whatever else there is to do to keep a 2 person, 1 cat household going. When not working I prefer books over TV, when I do watch TV (as my teenager loves it) I tend to combine this with crochet or knitting. Love the balance of online when I am working and totally offline in my free time. Please connect with me on LinkedIn and mention you read about me here https://www.linkedin.com/in/petrafisher/.

2. When and why did you join the AABC?

In October 2018 I joined AABC as Stephanie Ward had been encouraging to do so for years. What appealed to me is that the networking takes place in different, interesting locations each month and the diversity of the members.

3. Tell us about your business and how we can work with you.

As an independent LinkedIn Trainer I help people transform their LinkedIn Presence from a sum up of responsibilities in the past, to a story showing the development of transferable skills focused on the now and near future. Working with me can be focused on your LinkedIn Profile, your networking strategy, or your engagement (posting, sharing, liking, commenting) strategy. Working with me can roughly be done in 3 settings:
  • Reading the tips in my newsletter each week and implementing the tips + working through the free LinkedIn Profile workbook. Actually, this is not working with me, this is the free DIY version of using my knowledge to your advantage. https://petrafisher.com You can also join the free FB group “LinkedIn Tips” to read interesting articles by different LinkedIn Trainers and to ask your questions. https://www.facebook.com/groups/linkedintipspetrafisher/
  • If you feel overwhelmed by getting started, know it shouldn’t be that hard, but not a bit of a push and a shove… there is it online training: “LinkedIn Your Daily Dose”. This is where for 3 weeks (weekdays only) you will receive step by step instruction through email and video to fix one small aspect of your LinkedIn Profile each day. You can post your examples, worries, considerations in a closed FB group, where all participants support each other. https://petrafisher.com/your-daily-linkedin-dose-online-linkedin-course/ If you sign up (it rolls every month) please add AABC behind your last name. You will then be invited to a live online Q&A at the hardest part of the course. A Q&A only for AABC members, fancy if you are the only one to sign up!
  • As an individual (employee or entrepreneur) you can work with me 1-on-1. This is done through Zoom (kinda like Skype) so you don’t have to find the time to travel to my office. I have several packages available to match your needs. https://petrafisher.com/linkedin-training/
  • As a company you can bring me in to give a presentation style workshop (90 min) for as many people as you can fit in your conference room. The rest of the day (and follow up days if needed). I work with each employee 1-on-1 for 30 minutes. A small ambassadors workshop (training staff how to be leaders and get others on board) is also possible. https://petrafisher.com/linkedin-training/
 

4. What are your tips and/or advice about doing business in the Netherlands?

Networking is key. Use not only valuable meetings like AABC, but also online networks such as related FB groups and ofcourse LinkedIn to be as well known as possible, so referrals will come your way. Don’t beat around the bush. If you are dealing with the Dutch, you can easily save 10-20 minutes on a meeting by getting straight down to business. Be prompt. Meetings start at set time, so be in time to grab a cuppa beforehand, not after the set meeting time.

Member Spotlight: Kristien van Elteren

Each month we'll feature a different AABC member in our new Member Spotlight, this month Kristien van Elteren. Would you like to be featured in a future edition of our Member Spotlight? Get in touch with Veronica at marketing@aabc.nl

1. Who are you? (introduce yourself)

I was born in the south of the Netherlands and have lived in different continents e.g the Caribbean and United states, where I started my first company international art trading. For years I have done many artshows: Art Expo New York, Las Vegas Art Expo and Art Zurich. Meanwhile, I have my Master degree in Economics and Business Innovation, partly in South-Africa. One day one of my customers approached me and said: “I want to sell my marina”. She thought I was the right person to extend this beautiful place to a next level. As a young businesswoman, I seized this opportunity. I sold my art company and took over the marina, just outside Amsterdam. This was a whole new adventure and help me mature as an entrepreneur.

2. When and why did you join the AABC?

When I moved to Amsterdam from St. Maarten (Caribbean), I really felt like a world traveller / expat and wanted to explore the city and meet inspiring people. The ambitious culture of the American people gave me energy, so I was looking for an American club. Through the events I meet inspiring, goal-oriented and ambitious people while I discover Amsterdam in a playful way. This is what I found in the AABC. Furthermore, the club gives me also the opportunity to promote the Serviced Apartments which are located at the marina.

3. Tell us about your business and how we can work with you.

The marina is all about the experience at the Waterfront. Since I studied business innovation I have taken this into practice, changed the businessmodel into a modern private marina. Services such as boatrepair, transport, catering are available and offered in collobaration with third parties. Our concept is to create a combination of boating and art, with a yearly changing statue garden with life size sculptures. In recent years we have had life-size art horses and birds and the coming summer season it is called: “Sitting at the Helm.” We also have a specific type of couch that is painted by various wellknown artists. To innovate further, several apartments are developed and build with a focus on expats. The apartments are beautifully decorated with Art & Design objects which can be also bought. The apartments are step inn ready and have the necessary services and comfort for expats / business travellers from weekly cleaning, laundry service to a first class meal service. The building is still in progress so… to be continued. An unique point is the location, that is 10 minutes from Amsterdam Rai, directly located at the exit Vinkeveen (highway A2) and next to the N201. The bus stop is infront of the street (less then 1 minute walking) and there are enough free parking spaces. It is only 20 minutes from Amsterdam Airport (Schiphol) and on arrival you instantly relax and enjoy the tranquillity of nature right at the Waterfront. Curious to find out more? shortstayhouses.com jachthavenvinkeveen.nl

4. What are your tips and/or advice about doing business in the Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, we believe that we must focus on values such as honesty, respect and personal responsibility. Do not try to force a decision, the idea of consensus is enormous in the Netherlands. Get straight down to business, the Dutch prefer to get straight down to things. My personal inspiration for growth is: “If people aren't calling you crazy, you aren't thinking big enough (Richard Branson). You must think big, if you want to grow’. Share this article:

Member Spotlight: Koen Gijzel

Each month we'll feature a different AABC member in our new Member Spotlight, this month Koen Gijzel. Would you like to be featured in a future edition of our Member Spotlight? Get in touch with Veronica at marketing@aabc.nl

 

1. Who are you? (introduce yourself)

My name is Koen Gijzel and I am the founder of Koentact Dutch Language School. I studied French and Dutch linguistics in Amsterdam and Paris, and started Koentact in 2009. I was born in Utrecht and I have been living in Amsterdam since 2003, still passionately support my home football team FC Utrecht though! One of my favorite places in Amsterdam is the market, from Dappermarkt to Noordermarkt, on account of the enormous variety of different cultures and great foods that you find here side by side. I love listening to French rap music, studying Arabic, making my own ravioli, going to classical concerts and cycling on my racer in the nature around the city.

2. When and why did you join the AABC?

I already was a member of the AABC 5 years ago, but I could not join the evening events anymore, because of the timing. I was so busy in the evenings, because of all our evening classes, that I did not have time and energy anymore for networking events. Now, we have a great teaching team in the evenings which gives me more time in the evenings. So, here I am: happy to be back and to meet new internationals who have difficulties pronouncing the -Dutch Ghhhh or who do really not understand the Dutch directness…

3. Tell us about your business and how we can work with you.

At Koentact, we give Dutch lessons for expats. We make learning Dutch as fun as possible and through our Field Trips and Language Cafes we break down the barrier of speaking Dutch in daily life. Koentact has an office in the city center of Amsterdam, consists of a professional staff of three young professionals and many great enthusiastic teachers. Together we offer a wide range of Dutch language courses and activities for internationals from all over the world. We offer classes in our school building, but also in-company and in-house. Thanks to the personal approach of our staff and teachers, our practical and social approach to language learning and never-ending energy, students do not only learn Dutch at Koentact, but they also have lots of fun, make many new friends and experience the real Dutch culture. You could always come to one of our free events (Koentact Open Day or the Amsterdam Language Cafe) to get to know us.

4. What are your tips and/or advice about doing business in the Netherlands?

Be yourself, be honest, have fun and don’t take it too seriously. Photo credit: Magpeye Photography www.magpeyephotography.com Share this article: