Tip From a Recruiter - Luiz Neto - van Raalte

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 recruitment consultant from Utrecht, Luiz Neto - van Raalte.

TIP 1 - Build Your Network

Networking is key! Building connections within your field can be just as impactful (if not more) as simply applying online. Sometimes, it’s not about what you know, but rather who you know that opens doors.

How you communicate is a big part of building your network. Candidates who are proactive, follow up on interviews, and show genuine interest in the company tend to stand out. Plus, a personalized thank-you note after an interview, or asking specific questions in a networking setting can really set you apart and make a lasting impression.

TIP 2 - Be Confident and Resilient

Being an international myself, I understand how frustrating rejections can be. As a recruiter I am drawn to candidates who show resilience even after a rejection because this shows professionalism and strength of character. When you bring that positive energy, good attitude, and an open mind, I’m all in to help you find the right path. 

Being straightforward and confident at all phases in your job search makes a strong impression. In Brazil, if you do that you can be seen as a show-off, but luckily that is not the case here. It can be very valuable to confidently show a potential employer what you can do because when you have clear goals, know your strengths, and have some unique tricks up your sleeve, it makes matching you to the right role so much easier.

Plus, at Undutchables we provide a lot of tools that you can use to prepare, so there is no reason you have to go into an interview not feeling confident.

TIP 3 - Dutch directness can be your friend

In the Netherlands, companies often value direct communication and an open work culture. Here, it’s common to speak up about your ideas and ask questions, even early on.

There is a lot happening in the labor market right now, including a shift towards hybrid and remote work, and companies are also being more selective about the soft skills needed for roles. With these personal matches being very important nowadays it really pays off to be honest and direct throughout the application process to make sure that you find the right fit.

This also includes when you choose not to continue with a specific role. The recruiter and company invest time and effort with interviews and working to find the right fit so it’s tough (and not very professional) if you just disappear without a word. So, the moral of the story is, don’t ghost after an interview. Even if it is not what you are looking for I would always prefer an honest conversation so that it is clear, which might even lead to me being able to help you find a better fit later.

Luiz is an experienced recruitment consultant from our Utrecht office. You can find contact information for Luiz, 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!

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