Tip From a Recruiter - Nora Kalmey

Job hunting can feel like a full-time job and figuring out the best moves to make can be confusing, especially in a new labor 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 our office in Eindhoven, Nora Kalmey.

TIP 1 - Be available when you’re actively looking

Once you create a profile with us, make sure you’re prepared to receive a phone call from one of our recruiters.

We may contact you unexpectedly to discuss a vacancy, check your availability, or conduct a short initial screening. If you’re actively looking for a new opportunity, try to keep your contact details up to date and make sure you’re reachable.

If you miss our call, don’t worry. You can just get back to us when you’re available.

TIP 2 - Be yourself and show your personality

Don’t be afraid to show your authentic self. Dutch workplace culture tends to be quite personal, with relatively flat hierarchies and an open communication style. There’s no need to hide behind a formal facade.

During interviews, companies want to get to know you - not just your professional experience. Team and culture fit are often important factors, so don’t shy away from showing your personality, communication style, and what motivates you.

TIP 3 - Be transparent about your requirements and experience

Be honest and transparent from the beginning about your location, availability, salary expectations, skills, language abilities, and other requirements.

If a vacancy mentions a language or another specific requirement as a hard requirement, it usually means that this is not something the company can easily compromise on. To save your and the client’s time, make sure you meet the key requirements before applying.

If you’re unsure whether your profile matches, feel free to ask us. We’re happy to clarify.

TIP 4 - Keep your CV updated and well-structured

Your CV is often the first impression a recruiter or hiring manager gets of you, so make sure it’s a positive one. 😉

Ideally, your CV should be chronological and easy to follow, clearly structured, relevant to the position you’re applying for, and free of spelling mistakes. Also make sure it is professional and in line with the Dutch CV standards.

If English isn’t your first language, I recommend having someone with strong English skills proofread your CV. Even small spelling or grammar mistakes can affect the first impression.

TIP 5 - Prepare well for your interview

If you’re invited for an interview, make sure you’re on time. Punctuality is highly valued in the Netherlands, so plan ahead and give yourself enough time to arrive.

Preparation is equally important. Before your interview, make sure you that you research the company, understand the role and its responsibilities and know why you’re interested in the position. Also have examples from your previous experience ready and prepare a few questions to ask during the interview.

Asking questions shows curiosity and genuine interest in the role. Don’t be afraid to ask about the team, responsibilities, expectations, company culture, or anything else you would like to understand better.

Nora is an experienced recruitment consultant from our office in Eindhoven. You can find contact information for Nora 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!