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Tip From a Recruiter -Rebecka Pojkas
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 our office in The Hague, Rebecka Pojkas.
TIP 1 - Be an active participant
What I really appreciate when working with candidates is when they’re engaged in the process with me. That means, for example, being quick to give feedback, taking initiative, asking questions, and showing genuine interest in the role/company. I value it when candidates are active participants in the process rather than being passive or needing to be “chased.”
TIP 2 - Share your story and let the conversation flow
During intakes, I appreciate when a candidate really understands the direction of the conversation—sometimes they even answer my next question before I’ve asked it which is a good thing. I enjoy when the intake has a natural flow and feels more like a real conversation, rather than a formal or stiff “interrogation.” I’m always curious to hear how people ended up in the Netherlands. We all have different stories, and it’s a privilege to be part of someone’s journey, even in a small way.
TIP 3 - Quality over quantity
There’s no fixed number of roles you should apply for at any given time, but here’s a good rule of thumb: Apply to roles you’re genuinely interested in and reasonably qualified for.
Recruitment is a dynamic process — roles can open, close, or change quickly. Applying to several suitable roles can increase your chances, especially if you're exploring different options or locations.
However, applying to too many roles— especially those that aren't a match for your background — can create a negative pattern (plus be overwhelming to keep track of) and may reflect poorly on your profile. Recruiters might get the impression that you're applying to everything without a clear focus, which can weaken your candidacy.
Remember, quality matters more than quantity. Take the time to tailor your application to each role. This shows intent, preparation, and professionalism.
TIP 4 - Prepare, channel your nerves, then trust yourself!
Many people get a bit stressed before attending an interview. Fair enough! But feeling nervous doesn’t have to be a bad thing — it often means the opportunity matters to you. You're likely nervous because you care, and that’s actually a positive sign of your motivation and investment.
That said, here are a few tips to help calm your nerves:
- Prepare, prepare, prepare - Clients always appreciate it when you’ve done your homework. It shows initiative and genuine interest.
- Read through the vacancy carefully
- Research the company
- Think through examples in your work experience that connect to the role
- Treat it like a conversation
- And lastly, believe in yourself!
When it's the right fit, an interview can feel like a smooth exchange and the questions comes naturally. So, prepare as well as you can and then just trust the process!
Rebecka is an experienced recruitment consultant from our office in The Hague. You can find contact information for Rebecka 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!