Gina is a true globetrotter, having traveled the world for work since her studies. Now, it seems she has settled down at LinkedIn in Ireland. How did she get there, and why did she choose Ireland? Time to talk to Gina!
Why Did You Want to Work Abroad, Gina?
My father always said: “If you have something to complain about, just go abroad”, and he said that even when I was very young. Now, I had little reason to complain, but that repetitive remark did ensure that I was always open to an international playing field with genuine interest in nature, culture, lifestyle, and opportunities.
You Now Live and Work in Dublin. What International Experience Did You Have before this?
I studied “Small Business and Retail Management” at Avans University of Applied Sciences, which is not exactly an international program. When I had the opportunity to do an internship, I saw it as a chance to “give it a try” abroad, and I approached it thoroughly! I literally sent my resume everywhere. The result was that I got to do a six-month internship at a Mexican company in Aruba. I enjoyed that internship, and it was the start of my international career.
From a five-month minor in Sweden to seasonal work in Mallorca, working in winter sports areas in Austria, and a gap year traveling through South America… I wasn’t done with the adventure yet! So I left for Australia.
In Australia, it was difficult to get a foothold, but I succeeded thanks to my talent for networking. Through my network, I found work as a purser on a cruise ship on the Great Barrier Reef, as a travel agent in Australia and New Zealand, and the dream job: cowgirl on horseback on a farm.
Because I stayed there for a long time, I also built up a network of “internationals”, and through my network, I eventually ended up at LinkedIn in Ireland.
How Exactly Did that Happen?
In 2020, Australia and New Zealand also faced the pandemic. The situation forced me to go back home. Once home, I got in touch with a floor manager of a beach club that was about to open in Zandvoort. I had worked with her before, so the network I built during my travels immediately came in handy! Ultimately, I ended up in Ireland through someone from my network in Austria.
I Can Safely Say that Networking is Essential?
Absolutely, my network brought me here. During international work experiences, I met the people who helped me further. Dublin is truly an expat hub, so here too I meet people who can be interesting for my career in the future. Networking isn’t just about career advancement; I also learn a lot from them, both professionally and socially.
You Essentially Started over in Ireland. How Did You Manage that Financially?
LinkedIn helped me with this. That is to say; I received a relocation budget, the flight was paid for, and the first month’s accommodation and necessary insurance were arranged by the employer. In addition, there was an employee who guided me with settling in Dublin; for example, she gave tax advice and showed me the ropes in the housing market.
What Can You Tell Us about Finding Accommodation in Dublin?
It’s a tough housing market, but not impossible. I was lucky enough to be able to use the services of a relocation agent. However, I found a home independently.
What I can recommend is joining expat groups and relevant Facebook groups. The website www.daft.ie is the Funda of Ireland, and there you’ll find the largest selection of rental and for-sale properties. If you’re viewing a rental property, make sure to genuinely connect with the landlord. Ask good questions and truly show that you are seriously interested; that increases your chances.
What Makes Living in Ireland Attractive?
Not the climate, but it’s good to mention that we have fewer rainy days than Amsterdam.
I can really enjoy nature here and the wide range of outdoor activities, which I really like to do. I find the expat culture truly fantastic; there are many parties and birthdays celebrated within the expat community.
And the Irish themselves are very open, warm, and hospitable people. The pub culture and Sunday roast, I enjoy them.
What Differences in the Workplace Stand out between Ireland and the Netherlands?
It might be that cultural differences are less noticeable to me because I’ve been working abroad for so long. But what I do notice is that people here are more cautious about giving feedback. Furthermore, there is generally an informal work culture, just like in the Netherlands, you can essentially address anyone within a company.
What Kind of Employer is LinkedIn?
Exceptionally good to its employees. I already noticed that in the way they supported me when I came here. The secondary employment benefits are extremely good. The company also organizes fun activities through its “sports and social club” to bond colleagues.
It’s also a serious employer with a competitive culture. I work in sales myself, and it’s definitely expected that targets are met. On the other hand, you are recognized for your achievements. Additionally, you can boost your career because the demand for talent is very high, so there are many opportunities. You can then take this experience with you back to the Netherlands or to your next adventure.
That Sounds Good. Do You Still Want to Go Back to the Netherlands?
I don’t think so, but if I ever change my mind, it’s possible with this employer. We are allowed to work remotely in Europe for a maximum of six months a year. This way, I can still spend time in the Netherlands.
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💡 EURES Netherlands helps you find a job in other EU countries. If you, like Gina, want to discuss your opportunities in Ireland or elsewhere in Europe with us, please contact us! You can send an email to: werken.ineuropa@uwv.nl