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INTAKE AND JOB INTERVIEWS IN THE NETHERLANDS: WHAT ARE THEY LIKE?

Congratulations! You just applied for a job and got an invitation for an interview at a company. By doing this, you made it through the first step in the application procedure.

What can you expect next? Well, that is depending on the organization that you applied for. But we can tell you something about what happens most of the time. Keep reading for some tips and tricks for your first interview!

Most recruiters like to meet you in person. Nowadays only a hand full of recruiters use digital meetings for a first appointment. They send you the company address with directions and if there are special things you need to do before the intake, they will tell you as well. For example, sometimes they need your license plate to check-in your car.

Some tips to prepare for the interview:

  • Arrive at the company five to ten minutes before your interview. This is a great time to show up and be present. Try to no arrive fifteen minutes or more before your interview, as the company might not already have time to take you in. Also, if you do arrive too early, don’t wait directly in front of the company. Wait a bit further ahead, instead! Check the directions to the company, too. This can help you out for better means of traveling.
  • Read about the company. You need to know at least the basics about what the company does or has done before you go to the interview. If any questions pop up during your research, write them down so you can ask the recruiter.
  • Print your resume and/or bring a notebook to the interview with these (and other) questions. Makes you look interesting!
  • If you have doubts about how to dress for the interview, don't be afraid to ask the recruiter if there is a dress code. Though, don't wear anything that makes you extremely uncomfortable.
  • Check out and link the recruiter and other employees on LinkedIn. Maybe you have something in common. You can bring this is up during the interview to create a personal connection.

How the interview will go:

In the Netherlands the first job interview is mostly to get to know each other. The best advice is to be yourself and not try to overachieve. When you are settled with a cup of coffee or tea, the recruiter first introduces her- or himself. When it is your turn, you can tell about yourself. A short introduction to who you are, what you like to do and what your education and former work experience has brought you. If there is a connection, the conversation will lead itself. If not, there are some things you can do to keep the conversation going. For example, you can ask about personal growth opportunities or you can ask specific questions about the processes, customers or procedures at the company. You can also ask if the recruiter wants to show you around.

At the end of the interview the recruiter tells you when he of she will be in touch with you. If not, don't hesitate to ask it yourself. It is good to know what you can expect. This way you can leave with a clean mind.

Do you want more tips? Just ask us!

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