Landing a job in the Netherlands requires more than just a strong CV—you need to ace your job interview to make a lasting impression. Whether you’re applying for a flooring, moving, warehouse, or general labor job, interview preparation is key to securing your dream job.
At NL Recruitment, we help job seekers prepare for interviews by providing expert tips, insights, and real-life interview questions to help you stand out. In this blog, we’ll cover what to expect, common questions, and essential tips to help you succeed in your next interview.
What to Expect in a Dutch Job Interview?
Job interviews in the Netherlands can be structured or informal, depending on the company and job type. Here’s what you can typically expect:
🔹 Phone or Video Screening – Some employers start with a quick phone or video call before scheduling an in-person interview.
🔹 Face-to-Face Interview – For hands-on jobs like flooring, moving, and logistics, you may meet with the hiring manager or team leader in person.
🔹 Technical or Skills Test – Some companies may ask you to demonstrate your skills, such as lifting heavy objects (for moving jobs) or measuring spaces (for flooring jobs).
🔹 Behavioral Questions – Employers want to see how you react in different situations, especially in team-based or customer-facing roles.
🔹 Job Offer & Next Steps – If the employer is interested, they may discuss salary, work schedule, and job expectations at the end of the interview.
Common Job Interview Questions (with Sample Answers)
1. Can you tell me about yourself?
📌 Tip: Keep it short and focus on your experience, skills, and why you’re interested in the job.
💬 Example Answer:
“I have been working in flooring installation for three years, specializing in laminate and vinyl flooring. I enjoy working with my hands and ensuring clients receive high-quality results. I’m excited about this opportunity because your company has a great reputation in the industry.”
2. Why do you want to work for our company?
📌 Tip: Research the company and mention something specific about them.
💬 Example Answer:
“I know that your company is one of the best in the Netherlands for moving and packing services. I like working in a team, and I enjoy helping customers with their relocation. I believe my skills in lifting, organizing, and packing will be a good fit for this role.”
3. Do you have experience in this type of work?
📌 Tip: Even if you don’t have direct experience, talk about transferable skills.
💬 Example Answer:
“I worked as a warehouse assistant for a year, where I had to organize inventory, lift heavy boxes, and use packing materials. Although I haven’t worked as a mover before, I have the physical strength and teamwork skills needed for this job.”
4. How do you handle working under pressure?
📌 Tip: Employers want to know that you can stay calm and focused in a fast-paced job.
💬 Example Answer:
“I handle pressure by staying organized and focusing on my tasks. When working in a busy warehouse, I made sure to follow instructions, communicate with my team, and stay efficient, even when deadlines were tight.”
5. What are your salary expectations?
📌 Tip: Research the average salary for your role and location. If you’re unsure, ask about the company’s budget.
💬 Example Answer:
“I’m open to discussing salary based on the responsibilities of the role. I understand that salaries for this type of job range from [X] to [Y], and I’m happy to negotiate based on my experience and skills.”
Top Tips for a Successful Job Interview
✅ 1. Research the Company
Before your interview, take some time to learn about the company. Visit their website, read reviews, and check their mission and values. Employers appreciate candidates who show genuine interest in their company.
✅ 2. Dress Appropriately
For roles in flooring, moving, and general labor, it’s best to dress in casual but professional attire—such as clean jeans, work boots, and a polo shirt. If the job is in an office or customer-facing environment, wear business casual.
✅ 3. Arrive on Time
Being late to an interview creates a bad first impression. Plan your route in advance and aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early.
✅ 4. Bring Necessary Documents
Some companies may ask for the following:
📜 CV/Resume
📜 Identification (Passport/ID Card)
📜 Work Permit (if applicable)
📜 References from previous jobs
✅ 5. Show Confidence & Positivity
Even if you’re nervous, smile, make eye contact, and speak clearly. A positive attitude can make a big difference in how the employer perceives you.
✅ 6. Ask Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions to show that you are serious about the job. Examples include:
✔️ “What are the main challenges in this job?”
✔️ “Can you describe a typical day in this role?”
✔️ “What are the next steps in the hiring process?”
Mistakes to Avoid in a Job Interview
❌ Arriving Late – Always plan ahead and leave early to ensure you’re on time.
❌ Not Preparing – Employers can tell if you haven’t researched the company or job description.
❌ Speaking Negatively About Past Jobs – Always remain professional and focus on positive experiences.
❌ Not Asking Questions – Asking questions shows that you are interested and motivated.
❌ Lack of Enthusiasm – Employers want to hire motivated, hardworking employees. Show interest in the job!
How NL Recruitment Helps You Succeed
At NL Recruitment, we don’t just connect you with jobs—we prepare you for success!
✅ Interview Coaching – We provide one-on-one coaching to help you answer questions with confidence.
✅ Job Placement Assistance – We match you with employers that fit your skills and experience.
✅ Resume & Application Support – We help you improve your CV so you stand out to employers.
✅ Ongoing Job Opportunities – If one job doesn’t work out, we’ll find another opportunity for you!
