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Tip From a Recruiter - Koen de Geus
Job hunting can feel like a full-time job and figuring out the best moves to make can be confusing, especially in a new labour market. Getting a peek inside the mind of a recruiter can make this process a bit easier. So, let us help with that! In this blog series our experienced recruitment consultants share their top tips to help you succeed in your job search. Learn how to make your application stand out, impress recruiters, and move through the job application process smoothly by following the advice of our experts. This month’s tips are brought to you by our branch manager from our Utrecht office, Koen de Geus.
TIP 1 - Prepare Yourself
Maybe this sounds super logical, but we still often see that people are not prepared well. My advice is to prepare in the broadest way possible - before applying, and also when you are invited for an interview. Try to get as much information as you can from the website, check the responsible contact person(s) on LinkedIn, have a thorough look at the needed requirements, and check whether you tick (enough) boxes, etc etc.
When applying through a recruitment agency, ask whether they have some additional information about the company, interviewers, and whether they have some tips for you to be as prepared as possible. That can really give you some inside information that other applications might not have.
Prepare answers for the most standard interview questions, and prepare questions yourself about the company and the role that reflect your interest. Finally, don’t forget to check the “standard” practical things like how long it will take you to get to the office and whether public transport is having issues or if there is any construction on specific roads.
TIP 2 - Be Proactive and Positive
From my own experience, I remember (pro-)active candidates better. Calling before applying can help. Following up and showing that you listen and do something with feedback and tips can put you ahead of your competition. Positivity also helps. Don’t be (too) negative about former employers and jobs and try to focus on the things you learned and take with you now. Bring good energy, smile, and be optimistic; it will make a positive impact for you.
TIP 3 - Be Yourself and Be Honest
From my perspective it is very important that a job and company fit you as a person/candidate. I believe that only then will you be happy (and successful) in a job. The only way to see if that match is there, is when you are your real self (do not pretend) and when you are honest about your background, experience, and preferences. In the end, you don’t want to act like someone or something else. This applies to the whole application process; from your CV and motivation letter through the job interviews and onboarding.
If you are lucky, the company will take the same approach and be totally honest about the job, culture, and expectations. A match made in heaven is a possibility then 😉.
Koen is the experienced branch manager of our recruitment office in Utrecht. You can find contact information for Koen and our other recruitment consultants here. Feel free to reach out to them if you have any questions about finding a job in the Netherlands. In the meantime, you can also read more great tips from our recruiters here. Happy job hunting!