Your new colleague's use of English phrases like 'No way José' and 'Holy guacamole' is likely a harmless quirk, but it can feel out of place in a Dutch workplace where directness and professionalism are valued. Address it gently by having a private, friendly conversation focusing on workplace norms rather than criticizing his personality. Frame it as a tip to help him fit in better with the team's communication style, not as a complaint.
First, consider the context: Dutch workplaces often prioritize clear, direct communication without excessive flair. While his phrases aren't offensive, they might come across as informal or even confusing to colleagues who aren't familiar with these English idioms. It's also possible he's using them to sound confident or relatable, unaware of how they land. Your approach should be empathetic: acknowledge his strong performance and positive attitude first, then mention the language habit as a small adjustment.
To handle this, schedule a brief one-on-one chat. Start by praising his contributions, then say something like: 'I've noticed you sometimes use English expressions like "No way José" in meetings. It's not a big problem, but in our team, we tend to keep language more neutral and direct. Maybe you could try saying something like "I disagree" or "That's surprising" instead. It might help you come across even more professional.' Keep your tone supportive and avoid making him feel singled out. Offer to help him practice alternative phrases if he's open to it.
If the behavior continues after the conversation, you can gently remind him in the moment with a lighthearted comment, like 'In Dutch, we'd just say "eens oneens" here.' This reinforces the feedback without embarrassment. However, if it's truly not affecting team dynamics or productivity, you might decide to let it go. Choose your battles: if he's otherwise an excellent colleague, this quirk may be minor. The key is to balance honesty with kindness, respecting his individuality while upholding team norms.