Because there are so many different recruitment agencies in the Netherlands, it can be difficult to determine which agency to choose. Luckily, there are a few questions you can ask yourself in order to narrow down your choices. Or in some cases. Even convince you why you should work with a recruitment agency in the Netherlands.

What are recruitment agencies?

When talking about recruitment agencies in the Netherlands we should probably start off by telling you what exactly a recruitment agency is.

A recruitment agency is the intermediary between employers and those who are looking for jobs (future employees). A recruitment agency aims to find the perfect candidate for an employer and the ideal vacancy for a candidate. Matching talent to where talent is needed and finding the right fit not only for the company but also the person who is applying for the job. In short: a good recruitment agency adds value for both the company and the candidate.

Usually, employers either post a job vacancy directly on the recruitment agencies’ website or they work with a recruiter to fill the vacancy for them. If you’re looking for a job, the vacancy listing of the recruitment agencies’ website is the place for you. We recommend checking the vacancies regularly or introducing yourself to one of the recruiters so they can personally help you find the job you’ve been looking for.

What kind of different recruitment agencies are there?

Generally, there are two main types of job agencies: a recruitment agency, also known as a recruitmentbureau or werving-en-selectiebureau in Dutch. Or an employment agency, also known as an uitzendbureau. The latter usually takes on the whole recruitment process from choosing the right candidates to hiring the right person for the job vacancy. Generally, an employment agency specializes in starting professionals and temporary employment.

A recruitment agency focuses on higher educated candidates who are further in their career. They’re mainly responsible for suggesting fitting candidates and leave the decision to hire to the employer. However, hybrid forms of recruitment can be found as well, so you should definitely look around to find the perfect fit for you.

*Did you know that there are also recruitment agencies, like Undutchables, specialised in internationals? Check out our vacancies here!

What to look for in a recruitment agency in the Netherlands?

One piece of advice we always give people looking for a recruitment agency is that it’s all about the right fit! No matter what kind of recruitment agency in the Netherlands you’re looking for, the agency must be able to meet your personal needs. This goes for companies looking for the right candidates as well as the people who are looking for jobs. It is important to determine what your needs are and, based on this, look at the unique qualities of the agency.

You should also keep in mind that many recruitment agencies are broadly oriented when it comes to workingfields. If you’re looking for something a bit more specific you should find an agency that specializes in your field of expertise.

For those looking for jobs, it helps to know 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 hub for consumer goods. So, for creative industries, advertising, gaming, fashion, research and life sciences, this is the place to be.

Why should I work with a recruitment agency in the Netherlands?

After reading all of this you might be thinking, ok great but what are the benefits for me? Well, let us tell you! Finding a job in the Netherlands is not always easy, and it becomes even harder when you’re an international. That’s why getting a bit of extra help from recruitment agencies in the Netherlands could be the difference between an everlasting job search and starting that dream job in no time.

Recruitment agencies are pros in conveying jobs and talents and they are often wildly connected, which means they often find out about open vacancies before they even get published. If you get introduced to an employer by a recruitment agency, chances are that your resume gets reviewed before disappearing under a pile of ever-growing other applications. Also keep in mind that recruiters have seen thousands of resumes and candidates from all over the world, so they will be able to give you some valuable information and tips.