Dutch Job Interviews: What Every South African Needs to Know
Moving to the Netherlands is about more than just getting a job; it’s about building a life. For South Africans, this journey often starts with a Dutch job interview. And while interviews might seem similar worldwide, the Dutch have a unique approach that can surprise first-time candidates. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the cultural differences, common mistakes, practical tips, and real-life insights to help you ace your next interview and secure your Dutch opportunity.
Understanding Dutch Job Interviews
Dutch interviews tend to be more personal and more direct than South Africans might expect. It’s not just about your skills; recruiters and clients want to know whether you (and your family) will thrive in the Netherlands. Employers don’t want to hire someone who will return to South Africa after a few months because they didn’t settle in.
Expect questions about:
Your motivations for moving to the Netherlands.
Your family situation, pets, and personal life.
How you adapt to cultural differences.
Your willingness to learn Dutch, even if it’s not required for the role.
Unlike in South Africa, where interviews often focus purely on qualifications and technical skills, Dutch recruiters look at the whole picture: your lifestyle, mindset, and long-term commitment.
Common Mistakes South Africans Make
Through our experience at Ir Olav’s Globetrotters, we’ve noticed some recurring mistakes that South Africans make in Dutch job interviews:
Mistaking Dutch bluntness for rudeness. Dutch people value honesty and directness. They don’t mean to be rude; they just say what they think and ask questions because they genuinely want to understand you better.
Not preparing questions for the interviewer. Dutch interviewers expect you to ask questions. It shows engagement and genuine interest.
Skipping basic Dutch greetings. Even if the interview is in English, a friendly “Goedemorgen” or “Dank u wel” goes a long way.
Being too shy or uncommunicative. The Dutch want to see if you can adapt to a new environment and work in a multicultural team.
Failing to research the Netherlands or the client company. Preparation is essential. Clients expect you to know who they are.
Trying to schedule interviews outside of office hours. Neither recruiters nor clients work after 5 pm. Respecting their schedule is part of cultural fit.
Not considering the impact on family life. Employers want to see that you’ve thought through how relocation will affect your partner and children, but also the family members that you'll be leaving behind in South Africa.
Real Life Candidate Insights
One of the most common surprises for Dutch interviewers is how much Afrikaans speaking South Africans can understand Dutch. Even when candidates answer in Afrikaans, Dutch recruiters are impressed by how well they follow the conversation. This creates an immediate connection and reassurance that integration will be easier.
Another successful strategy has been preparing thoughtful personal examples. When candidates explain how they solved a big problem at work, or how they adapted to a difficult team situation, Dutch interviewers feel more confident about their decision to hire.
The Role of Language in Interviews
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to speak Dutch to land a job in the Netherlands. But you might be required to learn it, and making a small effort can leave a big impression.
Learn basic phrases. Saying “Dank je wel” or “Tot ziens”.
Be ready for some Dutch in the interview. Sometimes interviewers test your comprehension by doing a portion of the interview in Dutch. Don’t panic, just politely ask in English if you don’t understand.
Show willingness to learn. Even if the role doesn’t require Dutch, living in the Netherlands does. Demonstrating openness to learning the language sets you apart.
Cultural Do’s and Don’ts for Dutch Interviews
Do’s:
Be on time. If you’re running late, even by a few minutes, inform your recruiter immediately.
Prepare examples of your strengths, weaknesses, and problem-solving abilities.
Answer fully; single-word responses won’t cut it.
Be honest and transparent about your situation and motivations.
Dress smart casual, look neat and well-groomed.
Ensure you have a quiet, well-lit space with good Wi Fi for online interviews (not your car or a restaurant).
Don’ts:
Don’t rely on AI tools to generate answers during the interviews; recruiters and clients will notice, and you’ll be blacklisted.
Don’t downplay your achievements. The Dutch appreciate modesty, but they also value clarity about your skills.
Don’t swear or use inappropriate language.
Don’t show up unprepared; read all the information recruiters send you.
Online Interview Tips
Most interviews happen online, so here are extra tips:
Test your equipment at least an hour before the call.
Look directly into the camera to simulate eye contact.
Use notes sparingly, don’t read from a script.
Sit in a professional-looking space, not in your car or a noisy café.
Preparing for Success
Dutch job interviews are as much about cultural fit as they are about technical skills. Employers want to see whether you’ll adapt to the Dutch way of working: direct communication, teamwork, and independence.
At Ir Olav’s Globetrotters, we help South Africans prepare by:
Coaching you on interview etiquette.
Providing cultural insights.
Guiding you through online and face-to-face interview formats.
Helping you anticipate certain questions.
If you put in the effort, prepare well, and show genuine enthusiasm for life in the Netherlands, your chances of success are high.
Conclusion
A Dutch job interview is more than just a formality; it’s your gateway to a new life. By avoiding common mistakes, embracing cultural differences, and showing your readiness to adapt, you’ll not only impress your potential employer but also set yourself up for a smoother relocation experience. Remember, the interview isn’t just about landing a job; it’s about starting your future in the Netherlands.
