CV, application and job interview in European countries

A Dutch application usually contains:

• a CV – professional and concise, at most two A4 pages: personal details, education, work experience (most recent first), hobbies and volunteer work; you can use the Europass CV,
• a cover letter of one A4 page – why you are applying, why you are suitable and that you would like to be invited for an interview.

Applications in Dutch are more appreciated, unless the ad says otherwise. Do not attach certificates and references – bring them to the interview.

The interview: the emphasis is on your motivation – why have you chosen this job with this company? Expect one or two interviewers and often more than one round; you will usually be able to ask questions. Dutch employers tend to reply fairly quickly – if you have heard nothing after 14 days, contact the company.

Diplomas: a credential evaluation from IDW (Nuffic) compares your foreign diploma with the Dutch education system, so employers understand its level.