Navigating the Dutch Job Market: A Workshop with Nima Sagharichiha

17.03.2025

Nima Outlines Steps to Succeed in the Dutch Job Market

On 21 February, students from Wittenborg gathered for an insightful workshop titled '5 Steps to the Dutch Job Market'. Hosted by Nima Sagharichiha in Apeldoorn, the session aimed to equip attendees with the skills and knowledge they need to successfully navigate the Dutch job market.

Nima, originally from Iran, moved to the Netherlands in 1995. With over 30 years of experience living, studying, and working in the country, he offered valuable insights. Nima has a background in engineering and worked at ASML before founding his own company ProContext, after noticing how many people were coming to the Netherlands for work opportunities.

The workshop not only focused on the technical aspects of job hunting but also touched on crucial factors such as leadership and cultural awareness. After the session, Nima reflected on the importance of understanding the Dutch work culture:

“Leadership skills are always relevant – whether you’re a student, applying for a job, or already working. How you apply these skills depends not only on your personal style but also on the cultural context in which you operate,” he wrote. He also highlighted the significance of cultural awareness, stressing that it plays a key role in improving communication, collaboration, and navigating your (work) environment effectively.

Research the Job Market

Nima emphasised the importance of understanding the job market before applying for positions. He encouraged students to explore available job sectors, identify which industries are thriving in the Netherlands, and research which companies are hiring. This research allows candidates to understand which skills are in demand and how they can tailor their applications accordingly.

Create your Personal Pitch (Networking)

According to Nima, networking is one of the most crucial aspects of job hunting in the Netherlands. “Your personal pitch is key to building connections in the Dutch job market,” he explained. Nima stressed the value of being able to present oneself clearly and confidently. “You need to be able to introduce yourself in a way that is memorable and appealing, so that others can help you connect with opportunities,” he advised. Networking, whether online or face-to-face, opens doors to job opportunities and provides access to industry professionals who can offer advice and even referrals.

To help students improve their networking abilities, Nima introduced the STAR method. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It is a structured way of responding to behavioural interview questions or sharing experiences during networking events. “When asked about your experience or skills, use the STAR method to structure your answer clearly and concisely,” he said. This method allows candidates to showcase their problem-solving abilities and achievements effectively.

Polish your CV, Cover Letter, and LinkedIn Profile

Nima advised the students to ensure their CV, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile are well-prepared and up to date. “LinkedIn is especially important in the Netherlands,” he stated. Many Dutch companies rely heavily on LinkedIn to search for candidates. Nima suggested using the platform to showcase skills, professional experiences, and any additional qualities that might make you stand out. He also stressed the importance of aligning your CV and cover letter to each specific job application, making sure both are tailored to the role.

Prepare for the Interview

Nima outlined that preparation for a job interview is essential. He suggested researching common interview questions, understanding the company’s culture, and preparing examples of your past experiences that align with the job requirements. “Be ready to talk about your achievements, your strengths, and how you can bring value to the company,” he advised.

Know Your Expectations and Needs

The final step in Nima’s guide focused on self-awareness when it comes to your own expectations. “What do you want from the job? What salary are you expecting?” he asked. “How do you communicate with the company, and what do you need from them?” Nima encouraged students to reflect on these questions. Knowing your worth, understanding your needs, and being able to clearly communicate them to potential employers is essential for ensuring both you and the company are aligned.

In addition to the five steps, Nima also discussed practical advice for students facing challenges such as visa requirements. He explained that some companies may have restrictions when hiring international students, particularly for lower-skilled positions. However, he offered a solution: students can approach job agencies that act as intermediaries between the company and the job seeker, which can open up more opportunities.

Ava Mehrani, External Relations & Events Assistant, said that the workshop was a great experience for all attendees, providing them with actionable steps to enhance their chances of landing a job in the Netherlands.

“Nima’s focus on leadership and cultural awareness added an extra layer of depth to the session, helping students understand how their skills can be applied within the context of Dutch workplaces.”

The session also benefitted students who are new to the Netherlands, offering them a helpful push in the right direction.