Landing a job in the Netherlands might feel a bit like cracking a code. The culture is international, companies hire from all over the world, and many workplaces operate in English — but not every application turns into a job offer.
That’s where local insight makes all the difference. Recruiters at Undutchables, the specialists in matching internationals with Dutch companies, shared their most effective strategies for job seekers with DutchReview.
Get ready to amp up your job search — here are their top tips.
The Dutch job market right now: good, but competitive
Before diving in, it helps to know what you’re stepping into.
The Netherlands continues to have relatively low unemployment compared with other EU countries — around 4% in late 2025, which is only slightly above earlier levels.
Undutchables notes that internationals continue to be in demand, especially when they bring language skills, customer-facing experience, or strong digital abilities. So yes, opportunities are out there — but you still need to stand out.
Treat your application like a first impression
Your CV and cover letter are often your first handshake with a company.
According to Undutchables recruiters, tailored applications almost always outperform generic ones. They see hundreds of CVs every week, and the candidates who succeed are the ones who prepare their CV to clearly match their skills to the role.
If a job requires teamwork, share a real example. If the role needs analytical thinking, highlight a problem you solved and what the result was.
Keep in mind that your resume probably won’t go to a human first, but instead an applicant tracking system (ATS). To get to the next stage, use the keywords from the job description to frame your work achievements.
And yes, keep your CV clean and concise: two pages max, structured clearly, and consistent with your LinkedIn.
Finally, Undutchables recruiters told us that your cover letter should offer real value, not just repeat your CV. Write your cover letter to be personal, show your motivation, explain how your transferable skills will help, and give a brief example.
These steps alone can dramatically increase response rates.
Do your homework before the interview
Recruiters at Undutchables often see a clear difference between candidates who prepare and candidates who “wing it”.
A quick skim of the company website is good, but going deeper is better. Learn what the organisation actually cares about. Understand their values, competitors, and recent developments. The more context you bring into the interview room, the more confident you’ll feel.
Prepared candidates also ask better questions. Dutch interviewers love curiosity, and recruitment consultants told us that thoughtful questions often tip the balance in a candidate’s favour.
Show results, not just responsibilities
Show how you work, not just what you achieved
If there’s one thing recruiters at Undutchables consistently emphasise, it’s this: Dutch employers want to understand how you work, not just what you delivered at the end.
Of course, results matter, but a CV filled only with percentages and revenue figures can feel bulky and impersonal.
Especially in the Netherlands, employers are often more interested in your soft skills and how you apply them in practice. Think communication, collaboration, problem-solving, adaptability, and ownership.
That doesn’t mean you should avoid numbers altogether. Instead, use them to support a clear story. Pair results with context so employers can see your potential in action.
For example:
- Instead of: “Managed a sales pipeline worth €1.2 million.”
- Try: “Managed a €1.2 million sales pipeline while working closely with cross-functional teams and adapting sales strategies to different client needs.”
This approach shows what you achieved and how you achieved it — which is exactly what many Dutch hiring managers look for.
In short: show your impact, but don’t forget to show the person behind it.
LinkedIn is part of the process, not an afterthought
LinkedIn matters more here than in many countries.
Consultants at Undutchables regularly find candidates directly through the platform, so keeping your profile up-to-date is essential. A short personal summary, a professional photo, and a clear headline go a long way.
Networking also opens doors. Comment on posts, join industry groups, and connect with people working in the companies you’re interested in.
Undutchables often hear from candidates who were contacted by employers simply because they were visible and active online.
Polished communication makes a strong impression
In the Netherlands, how you communicate during the hiring process counts almost as much as what’s on your CV.
Experts at Undutchables emphasise the importance of being responsive, punctual, and professional. Quick replies, clear writing, and reliable timing all stand out — especially when companies are screening multiple candidates at once.
A short thank-you note after an interview also helps. It doesn’t need to be formal or long; just a line or two about something you enjoyed discussing.
Be open (but strategic) about your situation
Many job seekers worry about raising topics like visa sponsorship, relocation timelines, or salary expectations. The advice from Undutchables? Be direct.
The Dutch hiring process works best when expectations are clear. If you need a permit, are interviewing elsewhere, or have a required start date, sharing that information early helps recruiters advocate for you and match you to roles that actually fit.
At the same time, avoid ruling yourself out too quickly. You don’t need to meet 100% of the job requirements to apply. Around 70% is often enough if you’re genuinely excited about the role.
Keep learning, including Dutch if you can
Many international roles placed by Undutchables are in English, especially in tech, logistics, customer support, and finance.
But speaking Dutch expands your long-term options. Statistics Netherlands reports that migrants with stronger Dutch language skills have higher labour market participation.
You don’t need to be fluent yet for this to be an asset, because even conversational skills can help you connect with local teams and show your willingness to grow.
Target sectors where internationals are valued
Undutchables recruiters work closely with companies across the Netherlands, and they see consistent demand for internationals in:
- Tech and IT
- Logistics and supply chain
- Finance and fintech
- Customer support
- Creative and digital roles
If you focus your search on industries that regularly hire international profiles, you’re already a step ahead.
Don’t do it alone
A job search can be exhausting, especially if you’re navigating Dutch work culture for the first time.
This is where Undutchables is especially helpful. Their team supports internationals through every stage of the process, from CV feedback to interview prep to matching candidates with companies who value global talent.
Getting a job in the Netherlands is absolutely achievable. The market remains strong, vacancy levels are high, and employers value international perspectives.
With guidance from Undutchables recruiters, from tailoring your CV to asking sharper interview questions and showing your real impact, you’ll be better positioned to stand out.
Take a deep breath, refresh that application, and make your move. Your Dutch job is just around the corner!
What helped you find your job in the Netherlands? Share your tips in the comments below!