Assertiveness training for internationals in the Netherlands

Assertiveness training for expats & internationals in the Netherlands

Learn to set bounderies, gain more confidence and speaking skills

Assertiveness training

2 day live assertiveness training in Breda

Hi, I’m Manon, and I specialize in helping international professionals thrive in Dutch work culture. Struggling with that blunt Dutch colleague? Finding it hard to speak up in meetings? Worried about being “too direct” or “not direct enough”? Want to set boundaries while maintaining good working relationships in the workplace?

Then the assertiveness training for expats and international professionals in Breda is perfect for you!

Assertiveness is the skill to clearly and respectfully communicate your opinions, needs and boundaries without hurting others or erasing yourself. It’s the perfect balance between passive behavior (letting everything happen to you) and aggressive behavior (forcing your will on others).

Assertiveness is challenging because we naturally revert to instinctive reactions when we feel ‘threatened’. For example, if a colleague calls you out on procrastinating, you might defensively snap “I don’t do that, who are you to say?” or passively surrender with “Yes, sorry, you’re right.”

True assertiveness means standing up for your own interests while respecting the other person’s needs too.

Practical information

4 & 18 June 2026 - final spots available

1 & 15 October 2026 – available

26 nov & 10 dec 2026 – available

Enroll today!

“I used to shut down completely when faced with Dutch directness especially with strong hierarchy. I chose Manon's assertiveness training because of her personal and practical approach. She knows exactly how to create the right atmosphere in training and her approach was truly life-changing for me. Now I can handle difficult conversations easily and show who I am and what I stand for.”

Reina

Quality consultant

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rated with a 9,5. Join 100+ professionals who’ve transformed their communication.

Common struggles that assertiveness training addresses:

Working in the Netherlands as an international can be challenging. The Dutch are famous for being direct but what does that actually mean for you? How do you navigate the hierarchy? The assertiveness training in Breda is designed specifically for these cross-cultural challenges.

People cross your boundaries

You say "yes" when you mean "no" because you're not sure how direct you can be. You're afraid of seeming difficult or not being a "team player" in the Dutch way.

Difficulty speaking up

In meetings, you stay in the background. You have opinions but aren't sure if it's appropriate to share them. You don't want to offend anyone or seem unknowledgeable but then other colleagues just interrupt each other and you never get a word in.

Challenging conversations don't go well

You avoid difficult conversations or get stuck. You become too accommodating, completely shut down or become too defensive.

You miss out on opportunities

You have a feeling that nobody listens and can't get them to listen. It feels like what you say doesn't matter or you just can't seem to get your message across the right way.

You find it hard to navigate Dutch directness

When someone is direct or gives critical feedback "the Dutch way," you either shut down or become defensive. You know they might not mean it personally but it still feels personal.

You constantly doubt yourself

"Am I doing this right?" "Should I have said that?" "Do they think I'm competent?" That voice in your head keeps you small and insecure. And that's reflected in how you communicate.

What you'll achieve through this assertiveness training

What you'll learn in this assertiveness training for internationals

This 2-day assertiveness training in Breda teaches you to communicate assertively. You’ll learn to stand up for your opinions, boundaries, and needs without hurting others. You specifically learn to navigate the unique challenges of working as an international in the Netherlands.

Assertiveness training is about finding the balance between being passive (letting everything happen) and being aggressive (forcing your way) – while understanding cultural differences.

Foundations of communication

Self-awareness & boundaries

Finding & using your voice

Handling difficult conversations

Dealing with dominance & manipulation

Clear & confident communication

Why this assertiveness training is different

Practical approach

Of course we talk, but you mainly practice.I use all sorts of methodologies such as video and audio analyses, voice exercises, role plays, mirroring and reflection.

Personal approach

No account manager, no "one of the trainers," or changing facilitators. From intake to support: you work only with me. All my clients know me very well and i know them.

2 Live Days + 3 Months Support

Most trainings stop after 2 days. Not with me. After the 2 intensive live days, I remain involved for 3 months. You receive personal challenges to put everything into practice, with support and feedback.

Free consultation

Before we start, we have a free intake conversation. Here we determine your learning goals and personal challenges together, including your specific cultural context and the Dutch work situations you're navigating. I adapt the program accordingly.

Cultural bridge

I understand both Dutch directness AND international perspectives. I've worked with professionals from over 30 countries and know exactly where the cultural friction points are.

Customer reviews assertiveness training

Names can be changed upon request of my clients.

“Manon really takes a different approach. It’s not about overthinking but about doing. From the very first moment, she gives homework that’s both fun and effective, so you stay engaged even at home. She challenges you in a very supportive way and gives you all the time, attention, and space you need.”

Darrel

Owner

Manon is a knowledgable, caring and inspiring trainer. She puts theory into practice and helps people to learn by doing. With her classes time passes without knowing. And gives a lot of energy after.

Linda

L&D advisor

"I've learned so much and have become a much happier person in general. Manon goes beyond to coach me. She offers me a mirrow I really needed and helped me with practical skills. I'm happier at work but also in my relationship.

Allesia

Engineer

About me

With 10+ years of experience, I help professionals find their voice and take control of their career happiness. Not by conforming to others, but by staying authentic and true to yourself.

Let’s be honest: difficult colleagues, uncomfortable situations, conversations you’d rather avoid but they’re part of work life. But you don’t have to sacrifice yourself to deal with them. With the right communication skills, you can achieve your goals and stay fulfilled at work.

Why clients choose me

I’m not a large training company. Everything I do, I develop myself, deliver myself, and guide myself. You work directly with me so no coach you haven’t met yet and no standard programs.

My approach? Small-scale, accessible and hands-on practice. No hours of theory from textbooks or endless talking, we dive straight into your real situations.

Many of my clients choose me for my energy and vibe (their words!). I speak their language, understand their challenges and make it all accessible.

My promise to you

Your success is my success. I stay involved until you achieve the results you’re looking for. Not because I have to but because I genuinely want you to move forward.

Investment assertiveness training in Breda:

Price is €995,- ex 21% VAT

Paying for the training yourself? You automatically benefit from a favorable arrangement. You pay €1,095 incl. VAT (instead of €995 + 21% VAT = €1,204).

Enroll for the assertiveness training in Breda

Reserve your spot for the assertiveness training in Breda. Within 24 hours you’ll receive an invitation for your free intake conversation. We’ll discuss your challenges together and sharpen your learning goals.

Choose your preferred date:

Your full name *

Phone number *

Email address *

Address *

City

Postal code

Country

When are you available for the intake? *Please give some options

How would you like to pay? * *My employer will pay (invoice) - €995 excl. VATI'll pay myself (iDEAL) - €1095 incl. VAT

Company

Invoice reference

Contactperson invoice

Invoice email address

Invoice address

City

Postal code

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Message

FAQ's

Do you want to enroll in the assertiveness training in Breda but do you still have questions? Please take a look at the FAQ. If you question isn’t there please feel free to contact me at info@sterksprekenstudio.nl

Who is this assertiveness training suitable for?

This assertiveness training is specifically designed for international professionals working in the Netherlands who want to navigate Dutch work culture more effectively. Whether you’ve been here 6 months or 6 years, if you struggle with Dutch directness, speaking up in meetings, or understanding the “unwritten rules,” this assertiveness training is for you.

How can this assertiveness training help me?

You’ll learn to communicate assertively in the workplace while staying true to yourself. This assertiveness training teaches you when and how to be direct, how to handle feedback culture, how to speak up effectively in meetings, and how to set boundaries without being seen as “difficult” or “not a team player.”

I find training nerve-wracking, can I participate in assertiveness training?

Absolutely! Many international professionals feel extra nervous because of the language and cultural aspects. The assertiveness training is delivered in English, the group is small (max 8), and everyone is in a similar situation. You’ll practice in a safe environment before applying these skills in your real work life.

Where does the training take place?

I offer the training in Breda at De Ruimte

Due circumstances it could happen I have to change locations but it will always be close to the location mentioned above.

What is included in the training?

2 full live training days (09:30–16:30)
Small group format
Personal intake call
Professional guidance
All training materials
Certificate of completion
Coffee, tea, lunch & snacks

How much does the assertiveness training cost?

The full program costs €995 excl. 21% VAT. Payment can be made by invoice or via payment link (iDEAL).

Additional tip: many employer have a specific budget for personal development.

Can companies register multiple employees?

Yes! Companies can register employees for group sessions or request an in-company training tailored to their team’s communication needs. Please contact me for a custom quote.

How long does the assertiveness training last?

2 intensive days (09:30-16:30) plus 3 months of follow-up support. During those 3 months, you’ll receive personal challenges to practice in your actual work situations, with my feedback and guidance.

How do I pay for the assertiveness training?

You can choose payment via iDEAL (direct) or invoice (for companies). Many international professionals have this assertiveness training paid through their integration budget or professional development budget.

Do you also offer individual assertiveness coaching sessions?

Yes! If you prefer one-on-one communication coaching, that’s also possible. For more information visit my online communication coaching page or in-person communication coaching in Breda.

More information for expats in the Netherlands

Please find an overview of interesting websites for expats in the Netherlands:

Iamexpat.nl

A leading online platform offering news, job listings, and practical information for internationals living and working in the Netherlands.

Holland Expat Center South

A regional information hub that supports expats living and working in the south of the Netherlands, including Breda.