Dutch Resume & Cover Letter
Dutch job market
Dutch Resume & Cover Letter
Are you an expat aiming to conquer the Dutch job market? A stellar resume and cover letter are your first line of defense. But fret not, navigating the Dutch application style doesn't have to be daunting. This guide equips you with the knowledge to craft compelling documents that showcase your skills and land that coveted interview.
Formatting
- Resume (CV): Unlike the US-style resume, Dutch CVs (curriculum vitae) are typically more detailed, spanning multiple pages. Focus on chronological order, highlighting your education and work experience in reverse order (most recent first).
- Cover Letter (Motivatiebrief): The Dutch "motivatiebrief" (motivation letter) is concise, usually one page long. Briefly introduce yourself, explain your interest in the specific position, and emphasize how your skills align with the company's needs.
Essential Content
- Resume: Include your full name, contact details, nationality (optional), education (degrees, diplomas, relevant coursework), work experience (company name, position, dates, key responsibilities and achievements), and skills (languages, computer programs, soft skills).
- Cover Letter: Address the hiring manager by name (if possible), mention the specific job title, express your enthusiasm for the company and role, highlight 2-3 relevant skills or experiences, and end with a call to action, such as your availability for an interview.
Extra tips
- Keep it concise and professional. Use clear and concise language, avoiding excessive jargon.
- Tailor your documents to each job. Highlight relevant skills and experiences for the specific position you're applying for.
- Proofread meticulously. Typos and grammatical errors create a negative impression.
- Consider using a professional font such as Arial or Calibri.
Bonus: Explore online resources for Dutch resume and cover letter templates. Remember, these are starting points - personalize them to showcase your unique strengths and value proposition.
By following these steps and keeping your documents clear, concise, and targeted, you'll be well on your way to impressing Dutch employers and landing your dream job in the Netherlands.