This document provides information and guidance for job seekers in the Netherlands. It begins with an agenda for the document which includes topics like writing a strong CV, preparing for an interview, and cultural differences in the Netherlands. It then introduces Undutchables Recruitment Agency which helps internationals find jobs. The document offers tips for writing a CV, preparing for an interview, and do's and don'ts. It emphasizes customizing the CV for the specific company, keeping the CV concise, and researching the company before an interview. In the end, it highlights that preparation, self-awareness, and communication style are keys to success in Dutch business culture.
2. Welcome & Agenda
Welcome
Working in the Netherlands
Writing a strong CV
How to prepare for a job interview
Do’s & Don’ts
How to find a job?
Cultural differences
Summary
3. Undutchables Recruitment Agency
Recruitment partner for internationals with 6 offices in the
Netherlands:
Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Den Haag, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, Utrecht
Target group: Skilled personnel with good command of English and
other languages
Commercially-oriented office jobs
Executive Recruitment
4. Working in the Netherlands
When do you need a work permit?
• All candidates from Non-EU Countries
• All candidates from within the EU (except Bulgaria & Romania) do
not need a work permit
2 ways of obtaining a work permit
• A company applies for it
• Partner from an EU country, living and working in The Netherlands,
who financially supports the candidate
5. How to find a job
Applying via an agency like Undutchables
Very common in The Netherlands
Advantages: Knowledge of the Dutch Labour market
They have the contact and do the work
Useful guidelines
Apply directly at a company through their
website
Useful Websites such as
www.expatica.com
6. Job Search
Are you applying for positions matching your
experience but not being invited for interviews?
Then you need to change your CV!
Your CV is your advertisement – sell yourself
7. Think of who is reading your CV
• Time is money - Get to the point
• What is the company’s image, mission and vision?
• The reader might not know your area of expertise
• If your CV is too long and wordy the reader may lose
interest and focus
• Don’t allow the reader to make any assumptions
• Your CV is one in many – make it memorable
8. How to write a CV
Keep a clear “reader-friendly” lay-out
KISS – Keep it Short and Simple
• Use short bullet points to describe tasks
• Start each point with a verb word, eg: managed, maintained,
processed, supported, etc.
• Accurately describe tasks – don’t give the reader
the chance to make assumptions
Include and indicate part time, temporary or
volunteer work
9. How to write a CV
• Make it personal
• Emphasize your most relevant experience
• Be consistent with your font size and type
• Check thoroughly for errors
• Do not include sensitive information (BSN/ID/Passport
numbers)
• Europass…
10. Your Cover Letter
Avoid letters longer than 1 page.
Most cover letters contain the following information:
• A brief introduction
• Education, skills and other relevant information
• A motivation on why you are the most suitable candidate
11. How to prepare for an interview
Research Company
Refresh your memory
Prepare questions
12. After the interview
• Thank the interviewer
• Ask about the next steps
• Patience
• Act professionally when you receive feedback
• “How did I interview?”
14. Do and Don’ts
Arrive early
Dress accordingly
Turn off your mobile phone
Be aware of body language
Make eye contact
Relate skills to position
Be positive
Provide examples
Speak clearly
Answer question directly
Answer truthfully
Listen carefully
Be prepared
Be late or too early
Chew gum
Bring anyone with you
Interrupt
Do not take offense when asked
personal questions
Be negative/criticise
Do not smoke right before the
interview
Mumble or speak too softly
Answer yes /no
Swear
Avoid sensitive issues
Inquire about salary on 1st
interview
15. Dutch Culture
Hierarchy – flat management structure
Direct communication
Gender equality
Rules & regulations
Long-term commitment
Everything is open to discussion
Qualification-driven
16. Summary
Know yourself, the job and the organisation
Preparation is essential
Be aware of the do’s and don’ts
It is not what you say that counts, it is how you say it