Job interview
How To Pass A Job Interview In The Netherlands?
A job interview can be one of the most stressful moments when looking for work, especially if you are in a new country like the Netherlands.
Here you’ll find practical tips to help you succeed in a Dutch job interview and make a great impression from the very first moment.
Appearance matters
Even if you’ve read that “everyone wears jeans” at the company, you should always dress well for the interview.
Remember: you only have one chance to make a good first impression.
If you’re applying for an office or administrative position, a suit or formal outfit is ideal.
If the job is in a factory or construction site, clean and presentable clothes adapted to the work environment are enough.
Dutch companies value people who can represent them professionally at fairs or meetings.
As advice: You can never be overdressed for an interview.
How to make the best personal impression?
Your appearance reflects your attitude. If you look untidy, you’ll give an impression of disinterest. On the other hand, if you show up well-presented, you demonstrate that you can represent the company with dignity.
Between two candidates with similar profiles, they will choose the one who projects a better professional image.
It’s also important to show confidence, sociability, and openness to new ideas. The interviewer wants to see someone adaptable, positive, and capable of teamwork.
And of course: Don’t be late. Arriving 10 minutes early shows punctuality and respect.
You are important too
Sometimes we forget that just as you need the job, the company also needs employees.
Don’t appear desperate or “sell yourself cheap.” Maintain a professional and balanced attitude.
Body language during the interview
Your body also speaks. Follow these guidelines to convey confidence:
Give a firm handshake.
Look your interviewer directly in the eyes.
Avoid nervous movements (legs, pen, hands).
Don’t cross your arms or legs: maintain an open and receptive posture.
Remember: first impressions last.
What to bring to a job interview?
Before leaving home, make sure to bring:
Several copies of your updated CV (one for you and one for your interviewers).
Your motivation letter.
The job description.
The address and names of the interviewers.
Notes about the company (history, projects, number of employees, etc.).
Prepared questions to ask them (see examples below).
Paper and pen to take notes during the interview.
Do your homework before the interview
Research the company before attending the interview.
Learn about its history, current projects, offices, corporate culture, and recent results.
You can do this from their website or by reading articles on Google.
Knowing more than the other candidates gives you an advantage.
How to answer the most common questions?
Job interviews in the Netherlands often include typical questions. Here’s how to answer them strategically:
Are you looking for a temporary or permanent job?
Make it clear that you are looking for a stable and long-term position where you can learn and grow professionally.
Can you work under pressure?
Avoid just saying “yes.” Give a concrete example where you handled demanding tasks or tight deadlines.
Are you a leader or a follower?
It depends on the position. If it’s a leadership role, highlight your leadership skills; if not, emphasize your teamwork abilities.
What would you do if you disagree with your boss?
Explain that you are respectful but able to express your opinion when appropriate, always aiming to improve team results.
Do you prefer to work alone or in a team?
Emphasize your flexibility: you can work independently but enjoy collaborating in a team.
Why have you been unemployed for a while?
Answer calmly and mention that you are looking for the right position for your skills.
What do you know about our company?
This is a key question. If you can’t answer, you’ll likely be out of the process. Show that you did your research and know the company’s strengths.
More difficult questions
How do you see me as an interviewer?
Just be polite! Say it’s one of the toughest interviews you’ve had and that you appreciate the interviewer’s role in assessing many candidates carefully. You can also ask how they see you as a candidate for the position.
I don’t think you’re the right person for the job.
This is your chance to sell yourself. Don’t be intimidated. Talk about your experience and skills. If they still seem unconvinced, provide another example. They are testing your determination and motivation.
What did you like least about your previous job?
The interviewer wants to know what you might dislike about the new role. You can answer something like: “I didn’t enjoy the paperwork part, but I know it’s essential for organization, so I always made sure to handle it properly.”
Tell me about the last time you felt angry at work
Say something like: “I enjoy my work and always give my best. Sometimes it bothers me when people count the minutes to go home or frequently call in sick on Mondays, but I don’t let it upset me.”
Tell me a story
Pause before answering and ask what kind of story they want. If it’s personal, share something that shows your determination and motivation. If it’s work-related, tell a story that shows your problem-solving and management skills.
What are you looking for in your next position?
A good answer would be that you want to contribute your knowledge and experience, feel valued, and grow professionally alongside experienced people.
Other questions
What salary are you looking for?
Answer calmly that your salary has increased over the years due to your performance. Say you haven’t calculated a number yet and would need to review your finances at home. Of course, you want to work in a company where your efforts are recognized and rewarded. Feel free to ask if that can be expected in their company.
If they insist on a figure, ask what salary range they are offering. If they say between €3,500 and €4,000 per month, say you were expecting something between €3,800 and €4,300.
What can you offer us that other candidates can’t?
Go through the job requirements one by one and show your experience and skills for each area.
What is your current salary?
Again, respond calmly that your salary has increased year after year due to your contributions. Your previous job was different from this one. It’s okay to round up slightly if you’re expecting a raise — they rarely verify it.
What are your plans in the Netherlands?
The interviewer wants to know if you plan to stay long-term. They don’t want to hire someone who travels frequently. Training new staff costs time and money. Mention something that suggests stability, such as having a Dutch partner or family in the country.
Why do you want to work here?
If you’ve read about the company, mention something unique they do compared to others. Maybe they care about the environment and you want to learn more about sustainability. The company might offer the stability you’re seeking. Talk about their reputation or your desire to contribute to the great product or service they provide — that would make you a valuable addition to their team.
Your turn to ask questions
During the interview, there will be a moment when you can ask your own questions. Here are some good examples:
Who are your main competitors?
What project are you currently working on?
How many people are you hiring, and why?
Are there training or course opportunities?
How many candidates are being considered and when will the final decision be made?
What software do you use?
What are the department’s and company’s main challenges for the near future?
How many colleagues are in the department and what language is spoken?
What does your interviewer like most about working here?
Do you organize activities outside work, such as sports or social events?
Who will train me?
When saying goodbye, don’t forget to thank them for their time.
It’s also a good idea to send an email to the HR person who arranged your interview, thanking them for the opportunity and their time. This leaves a positive impression.
If you’ve already passed the interview and received a job offer, don’t forget to read our section on contracts.
For more tips on how to handle a job interview, Walters People offers several useful guides.
Good luck with your job interview!
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