Starting your job search

Step 1: Decide what you want to do

• Which topics are you passionate about?
• Where would you like to work? (Netherlands, worldwide, close to home, etc.)
• What type of organisation fits you? (SME, NGO, start up, government, large international company, etc.)
• What kind of work do you enjoy? (lab, field, office, research, client contact, etc.)

Step 2: Choose your search keywords

The keywords for your job search are the words and phrases you’ll use when searching online job boards, LinkedIn, company websites, and other platforms.

• Try to be as specific as possible. For example: instead of searching for “sustainability”, try “water treatment”, “soil health”, etc.
• Use multiple keyword combinations based on your favorite topics, type of job, location, and type of organisation. For example: Water quality internship Netherlands”, “Data analyst food industry Wageningen”, etc.
• Explore keyword trends with Google Trends.
• Set job alerts: Set up multiple job alerts with different keyword combinations on job portals and LinkedIn.

Step 3: Prepare Your CV and LinkedIn

Make sure your CV and LinkedIn profile are up to date. In the Netherlands, it’s common for employers to check your LinkedIn profile, even if you apply through a different platform.

• CV tips
• LinkedIn tips
• CV & LinkedIn workshops

Step 4: Start searching

• WUR Career Platform
• Vacancy search links
• Apply for a PhD position or for an EngD program
• Want to start your own business? Connect with StartHub.

Step 5: Use your network

• Use LinkedIn to grow your professional network, and to connect with professionals in your field of interest
• Join networking events with employers, such as the Student Career Services events with employers, or events organised by your study programme or study association.

• Connect with alumni:

  • Contact alumni via the WUR LinkedIn group (check the alumni section, search by topic, country, etc.)
  • Chat with alumni via Unibuddy

Tips for Non-EU Candidates

If you are a Non-EU student hoping to stay and work in the Netherlands after graduation, you might face additional challenges — for example with visa regulations and language requirements.

• Check out our job searching tips for international students.

Final note

Finding a job often takes time — on average, around 3 to 4 months. If things aren’t working out as planned, it’s smart to activate a Plan B:

• Broaden your search topics or related fields you hadn’t considered before.
• Promote yourself more actively on LinkedIn and other professional platforms.
• Expand your network.
• Review your CV and LinkedIn profile.
• Ask for feedback from Student Career Services, peers, or mentors.