10 Steps every expat should take while searching for a multilingual job in the Netherlands

It can sometimes prove difficult to find work as an expat in the Netherlands. Still, there are plenty of companies looking to hire multilingual employees. Good preparation helps enormously in your search. Here are 10 steps you should consider taking when you are looking for the perfect multilingual job in the Netherlands.

1. Figure out if you need a visa to work in the Netherlands

Depending on where you are from, you may need a residence permit and a work permit to be able to (live and) work in the Netherlands. You can find more information about this on the IND (Immigration and Naturalization Service) website.

2. Think about what job sectors are prevalent in the Netherlands

While there are plenty of jobs available in the Netherlands, some industries are bigger than others. This country is quickly becoming known for its tech industry and has always been an international center for consumer goods. For example, Amsterdam is also a hub for creative industries, advertising, gaming, fashion, research and life sciences.

3. Make sure your CV is up to date

It goes without saying, but make sure that the information in your CV is correct and up to date. Although there is an abundance of jobs available in the Netherlands, it is important to remember that there is also a large number of candidates gunning for them. If you want to get that job, make sure your CV stands out from the crowd and don't forget to state clearly that you speak multiple languages!

4. Register with online job boards and set up job alerts

One of the best ways to find a job in the Netherlands is online. There are plenty of online job boards where you can start your job search. Think of Indeed, LinkedIn, Iamexpat.nl and Monsterboard. Don’t forget to turn on job alerts so that you are constantly up-to-date with relevant positions.

5. Find a recruitment agency

The Netherlands has a lot of agencies that can assist you in your job search. Of course, Undutchables is also very happy to help you in your search for a new job. Sign up here and let us know what you have to offer!

6. Get out there and start networking

If you already live in the Netherlands, or have the time to visit the Netherlands before you move, it is a good idea to visit some network events (The current situation does not allow this freely at the moment, but an alternative can be online meet-ups and webinars). You may find that a bit exciting, because it feels a bit like a first date, but it is very useful and really worth it. When you know someone within your dream company, it always makes the application easier. Do you really want to impress? Then immediately let them hear which languages you speak. Success guaranteed!

7. Make a great first impression

When you are invited for an interview, it is very important that you leave a good first impression. Firstly, dress in a representative manner and be enthusiastic about the company and the position. Note that the Dutch are fairly direct. Don’t use jargon. The quicker you can get to your point, the better.

And a very important one in the Netherlands: be on time. Of course, being on time to an interview is important everywhere, but in the Netherlands a lot of value is attached to time. Even being a minute late can cost you the job.

8. Follow the do’s and don’ts from our job application advice

In addition to the above mentioned points, it is very wise to follow the do’s and don’ts of a Dutch application. To help you with this, Undutchables has listed them for you in our job application advice.

9. Negotiate the secondary employment conditions

If both parties are enthusiastic and would like to work with each other, you will talk about the employment conditions. Never agree to the first offer, but always negotiate. In addition to things like the salary and the number of working hours, it is good to think about the fringe benefits. For example, do you not live nearby, and would you like to work from home for a day? Are your travel costs reimbursed at all and how many vacation days do you get? Do you have children, and do you want parental leave for a number of hours per month? These are all matters that you should think about and take into account in your negotiations.

10. Find a place to live and make the move!

Did you get the job? Congratulations! As an expat, there is a big chance that you still live abroad. The next and last step is therefore to find a place to live in the Netherlands. Preferably near your new work.
At Expatica you will find a lot of information about finding a new home in the Netherlands.

Good luck!

You may also like:

Working in the Netherlands: 10 tips for internationals

Multilingual recruitment at Undutchables

English speaking jobs in Amsterdam - Everything you need to know