Working via a recruitment agency

In the Netherlands it is quite common to let a (specialised) recruitment agency help you to find the perfect job.  They have the expertise concerning selection procedures, contracts, remunerations etc. and have the contacts with companies.

Almost all companies use the help of an agency to find suitable staff.  Most agencies are member of an employer's federation (ABU or NBBU).  These ensure that, under the Collective Labour Agreement for Temporary Workers (CAO), good employee benefits are being observed.  Recruitment agencies are free of charge to candidates registering.  

Recruitment agencies in the Netherlands might differ from the ones in other countries (such as the UK) as they handle mostly permanent jobs, and do much more than "push CV's". In the Netherlands, you can expect to get career advice from an experienced recruiter who can also help you navigate the Dutch system.

Companies in the Netherlands find it very important that a new employee "fit" within the company culture. Work attitude, mentality and cultural background are almost as important as language and professional skills. That is why high-quality agencies will always conduct an extensive interview with you, to see if you would fit the company and if the company fits you! 

When a recruitment agency has find you the perfect job:

• you can be offered a contract directly with the company
• you can be offered a fixed-term contract (detachering)
• you can be offered a temporary placement
  

Temporary placement means you will be working on a temporary contract which means a lot of freedom for both parties. This is also often used as a trial period for companies before actually offering a contract with the company.

Detachering (fixed-term contract) can be used e.g. for projects or replacement during maternity leave or long term illness, offering security for a certain period of time. 

Working via a recruitment agency means that you have a contract with the agency, but are actually working within another company. The recruitment agency is your formal employer and pays your salary. Because of the CAO you are ensured of good employee benefits, equal to any other contract.

Undutchables is specialised in office jobs such as administration, secretarial work, commerce, finance, IT and logistics. All candidates should have an excellent knowledge of their own language plus a good command of English. Our vacancies range from beginners positions up to executive level. Unfortunately we cannot help foreigners who wish to work in production, cleaning etc., but we might be able to provide you with addresses of other agencies that do deal in those fields.