Improve Your CV Using Immploy to Match the Dutch Job Market

Hadi
Jan 30, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Oct 10, 2025

At Immploy, we understand how frustrating it can be to tweak and rework your CV to meet ever-changing requirements. That’s why we’ve simplified the process, breaking it down into clear, actionable steps to help you craft a CV that meets Dutch employer expectations and maximizes your chances of landing an interview.

Why a Strong CV Matters

Did you know that on average, there are 200 applicants for every senior-level job?

150 are rejected by automated resume scanning software.
50 are reviewed by a hiring manager.
Only 6 are invited for an interview.

Your CV needs to be optimised to pass software tests and convince hiring managers that you have the right skills and motivation to join their organisation.

CV Length and Style

1 page is ideal – if you’re a senior professional, you may extend to 2 pages, but avoid unnecessary length.
Be concise – Dutch employers value directness; get straight to the point.

The Importance of Customisation

Make it personal! Keep a 1-2 page master CV with all your experiences, then tailor each application by highlighting the most relevant ones.
Check LinkedIn – research job postings and employee profiles to see what skills are valued for your target role.

Key Information to Include

1. Basic Information

Name: Use your first and last name as you prefer in a professional setting.
Contact Details: Email, phone number, LinkedIn profile, and city of residence.
Date of Birth: Customary in the Netherlands – format as DD/MM/YYYY.
Nationality(ies): Often required to assess visa needs; check the job listing.
Photo: Optional but common. If included, make it professional, friendly, and simple (no sunglasses, caps, or distracting backgrounds).

2. General Structure

Professional Summary (Optional)

A short, impactful introduction highlighting your purpose and achievements.

2-3 concise sentences – focus on tangible accomplishments.
Tailor it for each job.

Example: Recent Behavioural Economics graduate passionate about data analysis. During my internship at [Company Name], I led a project that increased market shares by 15%. Eager to contribute to an ambitious and dynamic team.

Work Experience

This section is crucial to differentiate you from other candidates.

List experiences in reverse chronological order.
Include:
- Job Title (ensure it's broad and recognisable)
- Company Name & Location
- Employment Duration (e.g., Jan 2020 - Aug 2022)
- Brief description with key achievements and quantifiable impact.
- Example: Immploy | Rotterdam - Co-founder | Sept 2024 - Present Created student-led startup improving employment opportunities for immigrants in the Netherlands.

Education

Degree & Major (GPA if relevant)
Institution & Location
Start & End Dates (or expected graduation date)
Relevant Courses, Awards, Leadership Roles

Example: International Business Administration (IBA) | Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University | Sept 2024 - Present Relevant courses: 8.4 in Accounting, 7.9 in Marketing, 8.2 in Operations ManagementReceived the “Aspiring Innovator” award for outstanding performance

Skills, Hobbies & Achievements

List technical and soft skills (e.g., coding, leadership, communication).
Highlight international experience – Dutch employers value this.
Languages – include all spoken languages and proficiency levels.
Hobbies – can make you memorable! (e.g., "Botany, Trampolining, Sandwich Enthusiast")

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚨 Overloading with information: Keep your CV concise and readable.

🚨 Being too generic: Customise your CV for each job.

🚨 Poor layout/design: Use clear headings and easy-to-read fonts.

🚨 Grammar & spelling errors:Always proofread or use an online checker.

🚨 Bad ordering: Keep your most relevant experiences at the top.

Need a Starting Point?

Still unsure how to format your CV? Download our example CV template below:

Good luck!

Brought to you by Immploy Team.