Coaching & Consulting
Living, studying and/or working in a foreign country isn’t always easy. Internationals often struggle at the beginning due to the differences in culture, communication style and way of working. Thus, it can be extremely helpful to get some support and guidance from someone who has experienced the same.
Applying the Progress Focused Approach in my coaching sessions, I want to help you feel motivated and competent in dealing with the challenges you face. Subjects and questions include but not limited to:
- I have difficulty with the directness of my Dutch peers, what to do?
- I struggle with learning the Dutch language, do you have any tips?
- What can I expect from working or studying in the Netherlands?
- How to effectively communicate in an intercultural setting?
- How can I find a job as an international after graduation?
Also, it is worth mentioning that thanks to my experiences in both China and the Netherlands, I was often asked to act as a sparring partner by Graduate School directors and PhD supervisors for issues resulting from cultural differences. Think for instance about collaboration problems between a supervisor and a Chinese PhD student.
Each session takes about 60 minutes and it costs 45 euros for students and 90 euros for others. The initial introductory meeting is free of charge and you can make an appointment with me here.
Training
How to Successfully Network in the Netherlands is one of the most popular trainings I give.
Due to a major reorganization a couple of years ago, I was forced to transition between jobs. Yet, it is precisely this setback that made me realize the importance of networking, and I’ve been intensively expanding my professional circle ever since. It is safe to say that building a strong network has helped me thrive both personally and professionally.
In the training you will learn:
- about the misconceptions surrounding networking
- how to efficiently network (i.e. the right approach and mindset)
- how to maintain and further develop your network
The training is meant for:
- students or recent graduates who plan to get into the job market
- anyone in the workforce who wants to expand their professional circle
- those who want to network but don’t know where to start
Currently, I also provide onboarding sessions to new international students and staff and trainings to directors and supervisors on better understanding your Chinese PhDs.
Please contact me for more information and a customized offer with costs.
Confidential Advisor
Everyone deserves a socially safe environment to work and study. However, experience shows that this is not always the case. When it comes to undesirable behavior, it can be extra tricky for internationals to determine what is ‘normal’ and ‘acceptable’.
The confidential advisor is responsible for assisting, informing, guiding, and advising the employee or student about options to put an end to the undesirable behavior.
Currently, I’m working as a confidential advisor at the university and am also a certified confidential advisor at the Landelijke Vereniging van Vertrouwenspersonen (LVV). Organizations and companies can hire me as an extern confidential advisor and more information can also be found here.
