Welcome by The Happy Expats

High Performance. High Potential. Happy.

Coaching and development for international professionals and teams in the Netherlands.

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You're good at what you do. You work hard. But navigating Dutch workplace culture feels like guessing. The unwritten rules. The indirect feedback. The consensus that takes forever.

You're not imagining it. The system is different. And we know exactly how it works, because we've been on the inside.

Schedule my free introduction

Helped me gain more insight

“I really appreciated our conversations. I felt very comfortable, which made it easy to speak openly. The thoughtful questions helped me gain more insight into why I make certain choices. The sessions also helped me focus more on my skills and how to apply them to topics I find interesting."

Jessica Saat

The problems you are facing

You're experiencing the gap:


On the outside (your CV):

✓ Good job at a reputable company

✓ Strong skills and track record

✓ Financially stable

✓ "You have it together"

On the inside (your reality):

✓ "Why am I not getting what I could out of this role?"

✓ "Others with less experience are moving faster — why?"

✓ "I don't understand the unwritten rules"

✓ "Is it me or is it the system?"

✓ "I feel intellectually underused but emotionally exhausted"

You're not alone. And you're not crazy.

The Dutch workplace operates differently. There are unwritten rules about directness, hierarchy, consensus, and networking that no one explains. You're expected to just... know.

But here's the good news: these patterns can be decoded. And once you understand them, everything shifts.

Yes, I want to decode my patterns

How do we help you

We’re result-oriented coaches. Our goal is to get your personal objectives clear. To assist you in how to be more effective in your work and career. And as a result to feel happier in the Netherlands.

Three ways to work with us:

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1. Individual Coaching

Want to get the best out of yourself while living and working in the Netherlands? Whether it's your career, communication, relationships, or finding your direction — our coaches help you gain clarity and take action.


What you get:

✓ 3 personal coaching sessions (90 min each)

✓ Face-to-face in Utrecht or online

✓ Customized homework and reflection

✓ Support between sessions

Perfect for:

✓ Professionals who want to grow beyond their current role

✓ People feeling stuck but can't pinpoint why

✓ Anyone seeking more impact, connection, or authenticity

Learn more about Individual Coaching

Personal & Practical

“What I liked most was the personalized feedback in the 1-on-1 session with my coach. I came away feeling more motivated, with more clarity and concrete steps for job searching and much more secure about my direction. This coaching program offers practical advice for internationals looking for a job in the Netherlands."

Stacey Hsiao

2. Boost Your Career

Over 70% of jobs in the Netherlands are never publicly advertised. And more than 85% of recruiters use LinkedIn as their main search tool. If you want to be found for the jobs that truly fit you, this program is your roadmap.


What you get:

  • 9-step online program in The Happy Expats Academy

  • Personal coaching sessions (group or individual)

  • Learn to build a strong LinkedIn profile and CV

  • Discover your story and strengths (ikigai)

  • Master the Dutch job market

  • AI tools like ChatGPT to craft your message

This program helps you move from:
"I'm doing okay, but not being noticed..."

to:

"I know what I want, and I know how to get there!"

Learn more about Boost Your Career
Mock-Up - Boost Your Career in the Netherlands - The Happy Expats - AIVA
3. Team Coaching

Got a multicultural team? Dutch and international colleagues trying to find a common language? Teams that are stuck in patterns, struggling with communication, or facing change?

We design customized programs that help teams collaborate smarter, communicate better, and build cultures of trust and challenge.


What we offer:

✓ Team coaching and development

✓ Leadership programs

✓ Change management support

✓ Workshops on multicultural collaboration

Learn more about Team Coaching

Feeling much more secure

“I'm so glad I chose this program. I got so much out of it — especially when it comes to making choices and staying calm and grounded. I've even shared some of the things I learned with colleagues and friends who are in similar situations. They've benefited from it too!"

Carmen Eggen

FREE GUIDE - DOWNLOAD

Whether you want to take a career step, communicate better, make more impact, or simply be more yourself in the Netherlands - you don't have to do it alone. Download the Free Dutch Workplace Guide

Yes, send me a FREE workplace guide
The Dutch Workplace Guide The Happy Expats

Why The Happy Expats?

We're not just coaches.

1. We've been on the inside
Our founder Simon spent 25+ years in Dutch banking at Managing Director level. He's led international teams, managed global stakeholders, and seen exactly why talented professionals get stuck. We bring insider knowledge, not theory.

2. We've coached 30+ nationalities
The patterns you're experiencing? We've seen them before. You're not the only one struggling with this. And we know what works.

3. We're practical and results-oriented
No vague advice or endless sessions. We focus on concrete outcomes within 3-6 months. You'll see progress fast.

4. We specialize in YOU
We only work with international professionals in the Netherlands. We know this context inside out. We speak your language (literally and figuratively).

5. We care about true connections
Not everyone is right for us, and we're not right for everyone. We'd rather be honest upfront than waste your time.

Yes, schedule my free call

Who we work with

Our clients are:

✓ International professionals (1+ year in NL) and teams

✓ High-potential, high-performance mindset

✓ Want to be happy, not just successful

✓ Ready to invest in themselves

✓ Results-oriented and self-driven

Sectors: Tech, Finance, Consulting, Creative, Life Sciences, Entrepreneurship

Not sure if you fit? Book a free 30-minute call with Simon. He'll tell you honestly if we can help, or point you in a better direction.

Yes, I want a free 30 minute call

Meet some of your coaches

Experienced career coaches who know the Dutch job market inside and out

At The Happy Expats, we’ve helped hundreds of international professionals find their voice, boost their visibility, and land meaningful roles at companies they love.

We understand how the Dutch workplace works, how recruiters think, and how platforms like LinkedIn work effectively. We’ll help you focus on what really matters.

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Simon Jansen – Life and career Coach, Team coach, 25+ years Dutch banking experience, ex-Managing Director

Aiva Eiduka – Personal Brand Strategist
LinkedIn & visibility specialist for international professionals

Lieke Beijen – Team & Individual Coach
12+ years mental health & social work, international traveler

Kelly Helinski – Creative Coach, Playful, out-of-the-box approach for those feeling stuck

Meet the full team →

My coach really cares

“The coaching program gave me practical methods I could apply immediately in my job search. I feel my path is a lot clearer now, and I’ve built a stronger foundation of knowledge on how to approach the job market professionally. My coach really cares about each participant, pays attention to every detail and wants you to succeed."

Katie Wu

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which program is right for me?

Book a free call with Simon. He'll ask about your situation and recommend the best fit. Sometimes it's Individual Coaching, sometimes Boost Your Career, sometimes both — or neither. We'll be honest.

Can my employer pay for this?

Yes! Many Dutch employers have personal development budgets. We provide formal quotes that HR recognizes as Professional Leadership Programs.

Do you only work with people looking for new jobs?

No! Many clients are growing in their current role, improving communication, building confidence, or preparing for leadership. Career change is just one path.

Are sessions in English or Dutch?

All sessions are in English. Some coaches also offer Dutch. You choose what feels comfortable.

Where do the sessions take place?

1-on-1 sessions take place in Utrecht, walking distance from Central Station. Online sessions are also possible via video call when face-to-face doesn't work.

How long does it take to see results?

Most clients report significant progress within 3-6 months. Some see shifts after just one or two sessions.

What if I'm not sure coaching is for me?

That's exactly why we offer a free introduction. No commitment, no pressure. Just an honest conversation to see if it's a good fit.

Yes, I book my free call
STAY CONNECTED

Get insights on navigating Dutch workplace culture

Join our newsletter for practical tips, success stories, and strategies for international professionals thriving in the Netherlands.

What you'll get:

  • Weekly insights on Dutch workplace culture

  • Career tips and job market updates

  • Success stories from our community

  • Exclusive workshop and webinar invitations

Our Location

Office building Central Park
Stadsplateau 30, 3521 AZ Utrecht.

Coaching sessions are also available online.

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Galgeplek 30, 6662 VR Elst - Chamber of Commerce: 84268417 - VAT: NL003674518B09