Demonstrating job search efforts | Prepare for INBURGERING Exam | Learn Dutch with AI FREE

TL;DR: Demonstrating job search efforts for the Dutch civic exam and work module

Demonstrating job search efforts means showing clear proof that you are actively looking for work, so you can explain your actions with confidence during the Dutch civic exam, the work module, or the MAP process.

• Use more than one channel: search on Indeed.nl, LinkedIn, Nationale Vacaturebank, UWV Werk, and company websites, then write down where you looked, when you searched, and what happened.
• Save proof every time: keep screenshots, application emails, CV versions, LinkedIn messages, phone notes, and a simple logbook with dates, company names, vacancies, and results.
• Build a stronger story by mixing online applications, networking, small-company contact, and volunteer work so you can say exactly what you did in simple Dutch.
• Avoid vague answers like “I looked online.” A better answer includes websites, number of applications, people you spoke with, and replies you are waiting for.

If you also want the full context of the work module, read MAP work module guide to connect your job search proof with the Dutch Job Market and Participation Module.

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Check out Inburgering Exam guides that you might like:

Complete Guide to the Dutch Inburgering Exam

How to Pass the Dutch Language Exam: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing

Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM) Exam: Everything You Need to Know

From Zero to Integration Diploma: Your Complete Roadmap

Living in the Netherlands: Cultural Integration Beyond the Exam

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If you are preparing for the Dutch civic exam and the work module, you may need to show that you are really trying to find work. This is often called job search efforts. In Dutch, you can say sollicitatie-inspanningen or more simply laten zien dat je werk zoekt. Many people make one big mistake: they say, “I looked online a few times.” That is usually too weak. You need clear proof, clear actions, and clear words.

This guide is for A1-A2 Dutch learners, expats, and people getting ready for the Dutch civic exam. You will learn where to search, what proof to save, which Dutch words matter, and how to speak about your efforts in simple Dutch and English. We also use trusted sources, including DUO, Government.nl, Inburgeren.nl, and common Dutch job websites such as Indeed.nl, LinkedIn, Nationale Vacaturebank, and UWV Werk.

Here is why this matters. Government.nl says newcomers usually have 3 years to complete the civic process. Inburgeren.nl also says the B1 route prepares people for paid work or voluntary work in the Netherlands. So work search is not a side topic. It is part of daily life, your future, and often your exam story too.

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What does “demonstrating job search efforts” mean?

Demonstrating means showing with proof. Job search means looking for work. Efforts means actions you make. So the full meaning is simple: you show real proof that you tried to find a job.

This can include searching on job websites, writing a CV, sending applications, talking to people in your network, visiting employers, updating LinkedIn, or looking at small and medium-sized companies. A lot of people focus only on one action. That is risky. A stronger story has many small actions together.

• Search = look for vacancies
• Vacancy = a job opening, in Dutch vacature
• Apply = send your CV and letter, in Dutch solliciteren
• Employer = company or boss, in Dutch werkgever
• Proof = something you can show, in Dutch bewijs
• Network = people who may help you find work, in Dutch netwerk

Let’s break it down. If someone asks, “How did you look for work?”, a weak answer is: “Online.” A stronger answer is: “I searched on Indeed.nl and Nationale Vacaturebank every week, I updated my LinkedIn profile, I sent five applications, and I asked two friends if they knew companies that were hiring.” That answer sounds real because it has actions, places, and numbers.

📚 Essential Dutch Terms

Dutch Term	English	Example Sentence
werk zoeken	to look for work	Ik zoek werk in Rotterdam.
solliciteren	to apply for a job	Ik solliciteer op een baan.
vacature	vacancy, job opening	Deze vacature is voor een kok.
cv	CV, resume	Mijn cv is klaar.
sollicitatiebrief	application letter	Ik schrijf een sollicitatiebrief.
bewijs	proof	Ik heb bewijs van mijn sollicitaties.
werkgever	employer	De werkgever belt mij morgen.
netwerk	network	Mijn netwerk helpt mij.

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Which websites and channels can you use in the Netherlands?

Trusted Dutch job search channels often include Indeed.nl, LinkedIn, Nationale Vacaturebank, and UWV Werk. These names appear often in Dutch job search advice because they are well known and practical. If you want to show serious job search activity, it helps to use more than one website.

• Indeed.nl = a large job website with many sectors and many levels
• LinkedIn = a professional profile website for jobs and contacts
• Nationale Vacaturebank = a Dutch job website focused on the Dutch market
• UWV Werk = linked to Dutch public employment support
• Company websites = many employers place jobs on their own websites first

There is also a smart insight here. Many learners only search on famous big companies. That can slow you down. Smaller employers often have fewer applicants, and they may be more open to motivated people. So if you search only at large companies, you may miss real chances.

Quick comparison of job search channels

Channel	What it is	Good for	Proof you can save
Indeed.nl	General job board	Many vacancies	Screenshots, saved jobs, application emails
LinkedIn	Professional network site	Profile, networking, jobs	Profile updates, messages, applications
Nationale Vacaturebank	Dutch job board	Local Dutch vacancies	Saved vacancies, account activity
UWV Werk	Public work support	Guidance and jobs	Registration, meetings, vacancy searches
Company website	Employer’s own site	Direct applications	Application form confirmation

Next steps. Do not just visit these websites. Record what you did. Save the date, company name, vacancy title, and result. If you get no answer, write that down too. Silence is also part of a real job search story.

📚 Essential Dutch Terms

Dutch Term	English	Example Sentence
website	website	Ik zoek werk op een website.
bedrijf	company	Dit bedrijf zoekt personeel.
personeel	staff, employees	Het restaurant zoekt personeel.
profiel	profile	Mijn LinkedIn-profiel is nieuw.
bericht	message	Ik stuur een bericht naar een werkgever.
inschrijven	to register	Ik schrijf mij in op een website.

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What proof should you save?

This is where many people fail. They do real work, but they save nothing. Then later they cannot show it. A job search without proof can look like no job search at all. That feels unfair, but it is common.

Save proof in a simple folder on your phone, email, or computer. Give each file a clear name, such as 2026-04-10_Indeed_HotelReceptionist_Application.pdf. If your Dutch is still at A1 or A2, this simple habit can protect you from stress later.

• Screenshots of vacancies you opened or saved
• Emails that confirm your application
• CV versions you sent to employers
• Application letters or short motivation texts
• Notes from phone calls or visits
• LinkedIn messages with recruiters or employers
• A logbook with dates, company names, and results

Simple job search log you can copy

Date	Company	Vacancy	What did you do?	Result
10 April	Hotel Blue	Receptionist	Applied on Indeed.nl	Email confirmation received
12 April	Bakery Sun	Shop assistant	Visited store and asked manager	No vacancy now
15 April	Green Clean	Cleaner	Sent CV by email	No answer yet
18 April	Local school	Volunteer helper	Called and asked for information	Meeting next week

That last line matters too. Even voluntary work, called vrijwilligerswerk in Dutch, can show that you are active, meeting people, and building work experience. On Inburgeren.nl, the B1 route connects to paid or voluntary work. So activity matters.

📚 Essential Dutch Terms

Dutch Term	English	Example Sentence
screenshot	screenshot	Ik maak een screenshot van de vacature.
e-mail	email	Ik krijg een e-mail van het bedrijf.
datum	date	De datum staat in mijn logboek.
antwoord	answer, reply	Ik heb nog geen antwoord.
logboek	logbook	Mijn logboek is compleet.
vrijwilligerswerk	voluntary work	Ik doe vrijwilligerswerk in de buurt.

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Why are networking and small companies so important?

The source material behind this topic points to two often ignored paths: networking and small to medium-sized companies. This is smart advice. Many jobs are found through people, not only through public job ads. If you only send online forms, you may stay invisible.

Networking means talking to people who may know about work. This can be a friend, neighbor, teacher, language coach, former colleague, volunteer coordinator, or someone from your sports club. At A1 level, your message can stay very short. That is enough.

• Ask friends if their company is hiring
• Tell your Dutch teacher what kind of work you want
• Visit local shops, cafés, and small businesses
• Join volunteer work to meet more people
• Keep your LinkedIn profile active and simple

A provocative truth: many people think networking is fake or pushy. In reality, a simple sentence like “I am looking for part-time work in cleaning, kitchen help, or logistics” is normal and practical. If nobody knows you are looking, almost nobody can help you.

Mini script for networking in simple Dutch

Ik zoek werk. = I am looking for work.
Ik zoek parttime werk. = I am looking for part-time work.
Ik zoek werk in de schoonmaak. = I am looking for work in cleaning.
Ken je een bedrijf? = Do you know a company?
Kunt u mij helpen? = Can you help me?

Small companies vs large companies

Type of employer	Possible plus point	Possible minus point
Large company	Clear process, many jobs	Many applicants
Small company	More personal contact	Fewer public vacancies
Medium-sized company	Mix of structure and personal contact	May ask for more direct contact

So do both. Apply online, and also speak to people. Search large employers, and also local employers. This mixed method gives you a much stronger story if someone asks what you did.

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How can you talk about your job search in simple Dutch?

If you need to explain your efforts, simple Dutch is enough when your sentences are clear. You do not need perfect grammar. You need a clear structure: where, when, what, and result.

Simple speaking pattern

1. Ik zoek werk als… = I am looking for work as…
2. Ik zoek op… = I search on…
3. Ik heb … sollicitaties gestuurd. = I sent … applications.
4. Ik heb met … gesproken. = I spoke with …
5. Ik wacht op antwoord. = I am waiting for a reply.

Model answer in easy Dutch

Ik zoek werk in Amsterdam. Ik zoek werk als schoonmaker, keukenhulp of magazijnmedewerker. Ik kijk elke week op Indeed.nl en LinkedIn. Ik heb vijf sollicitaties gestuurd. Ook heb ik met twee vrienden gesproken over werk. Ik heb mijn cv aangepast. Nu wacht ik op antwoord van drie bedrijven.

Word help:

• schoonmaker = cleaner
• keukenhulp = kitchen helper
• magazijnmedewerker = warehouse worker
• elke week = every week
• gestuurd = sent
• aangepast = adjusted, changed
• bedrijven = companies

Here is the same idea in English: “I am looking for work in Amsterdam. I am looking for work as a cleaner, kitchen helper, or warehouse worker. I check Indeed.nl and LinkedIn every week. I have sent five applications. I also spoke with two friends about work. I updated my CV. Now I am waiting for replies from three companies.”

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What are the most common mistakes to avoid?

Some mistakes are small. Some can really hurt your case. The most common problem is not laziness. It is vagueness. People do things, but they cannot explain them well or prove them.

• Mistake 1: Only saying, “I searched online.”
  Better: name the websites, dates, and jobs.
• Mistake 2: Saving no proof.
  Better: keep screenshots, emails, and a logbook.
• Mistake 3: Only using one website.
  Better: use Indeed.nl, LinkedIn, Nationale Vacaturebank, and direct company websites.
• Mistake 4: Ignoring your network.
  Better: ask friends, neighbors, teachers, and volunteers.
• Mistake 5: Looking only at large companies.
  Better: also contact small and medium-sized employers.
• Mistake 6: Using one CV for every job.
  Better: change your CV a little for each vacancy.
• Mistake 7: Forgetting voluntary work.
  Better: include volunteer activity if it helps you build work contacts and Dutch practice.

Here is a blunt truth. If your file has no dates, no names, and no proof, it can look empty even if you worked hard. This is why people who are less active but more organized sometimes look stronger on paper. Do not let that happen to you.

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What do trusted Dutch sources say?

Let’s keep this grounded in trusted public information.

• Government.nl says people who must complete the civic process usually have 3 years after arrival.
• Inburgeren.nl says the B1 route prepares people for paid or voluntary work in the Netherlands.
• Government.nl also explains that the law changed on 1 January 2022, and municipalities now have a bigger role.
• Inburgeren.nl says people with diplomas from another country can ask IDW for credential evaluation, which can help when talking to employers.
• Public guidance and learning material around the work module often mention practical job search behavior, such as CV writing, applications, and understanding the Dutch labour market.

These facts matter because they place job search in the right context. The goal is not only passing a test. The goal is joining working life in the Netherlands with real steps and real proof.

Trusted sources

• Government.nl, Civic integration in the Netherlands
• Inburgeren.nl, Overview of integration in the Netherlands
• Learn Dutch with AI, job websites and strategies for inburgering preparation

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How can you build a strong weekly action plan?

A good plan is simple, repeatable, and visible. At A1-A2 level, you do not need a fancy system. You need a system you will actually keep using. Here is a practical weekly plan.

1. First: Check Indeed.nl, LinkedIn, and Nationale Vacaturebank two or three times a week.
2. Then: Save good vacancies and write the company name, date, and job title in your logbook.
3. Next: Send applications and save the confirmation emails or screenshots.
4. Then: Contact at least two people in your network and tell them what kind of work you want.
5. Next: Visit or contact one small local company each week.
6. Finally: Review your folder every weekend and check if your proof is complete.

Timeline: Start this plan now and keep it for 4 to 8 weeks. After one month, you will have a strong file with proof, names, dates, and actions. That is much better than trying to remember everything later.

Sample weekly record in simple Dutch

Maandag: ik zoek vacatures op Indeed.
Dinsdag: ik pas mijn cv aan.
Woensdag: ik stuur twee sollicitaties.
Donderdag: ik praat met een vriend over werk.
Vrijdag: ik kijk op LinkedIn.
Zaterdag: ik bewaar mijn bewijs.
Zondag: ik maak mijn logboek compleet.

Word help:

• maandag = Monday
• dinsdag = Tuesday
• woensdag = Wednesday
• donderdag = Thursday
• vrijdag = Friday
• zaterdag = Saturday
• zondag = Sunday
• bewaren = to save, keep
• compleet = complete

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Korte uitleg in eenvoudig Nederlands

Werk zoeken is heel belangrijk voor veel mensen die het inburgeringsexamen doen. Je moet vaak laten zien dat je actief bent. Dat betekent: je zoekt vacatures, je maakt een cv, je stuurt sollicitaties, en je praat met mensen over werk.

Gebruik bekende websites, zoals Indeed.nl, LinkedIn en Nationale Vacaturebank. Kijk ook naar kleine bedrijven. Vraag ook hulp aan mensen in je netwerk. Dat zijn vrienden, buren, familie, docenten of andere contacten.

Bewaar altijd bewijs. Maak screenshots. Bewaar e-mails. Schrijf de datum op. Schrijf ook de naam van het bedrijf en de functie op. Zo kun je later goed laten zien wat je hebt gedaan.

Je kunt zeggen: “Ik zoek werk als schoonmaker. Ik kijk elke week op Indeed.nl. Ik heb drie sollicitaties gestuurd. Ook heb ik met een vriend gesproken over werk. Nu wacht ik op antwoord.” Dit is simpel, duidelijk en goed.

Nuttige woorden

• werk = job, work
• zoeken = search, look for
• vacature = job opening
• sollicitatie = job application
• cv = resume
• bewijs = proof
• antwoord = reply
• bedrijf = company
• netwerk = network
• vriend = friend

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Final takeaway and next steps

If you want to show job search efforts well, think in four parts: search, apply, network, and save proof. Use trusted Dutch job websites. Talk to people. Look at small companies too. Keep a simple logbook. These small actions build a strong story.

The people who do best are often not the people with the best Dutch. They are the people with the clearest record. That should give you confidence. You do not need perfect language. You need real actions and proof you can show.

Start today. Search one vacancy, send one message, and save one piece of proof. Tomorrow, do it again.

Samenvatting (Article Summary in Dutch)

Practice your reading: This section covers the same information in simple Dutch. Explain how to find answers.

Bij het UWV of de gemeente moet je soms laten zien dat je werk zoekt. Dat heet je sollicitatieplicht of het laten zien van zoekactiviteiten. Je bewaart daarom bewijs, zoals e-mails, brieven, vacatures en uitnodigingen. Ook gesprekken met een uitzendbureau, een cv aanpassen en inschrijven op vacaturesites kunnen meetellen.

Vertaling (Translation):

• sollicitatieplicht = duty to apply for jobs
• bewijs = proof
• vacature = job vacancy

Common Mistakes and How To Avoid Them

❌ Mistake 1: Je zegt alleen: “Ik zoek werk”, maar je laat niets zien.
✅ Instead: Bewaar bewijs. Print e-mails of maak screenshots.

❌ Mistake 2: Je bewaart geen datum bij je sollicitaties.
✅ Instead: Schrijf altijd de datum op bij elke sollicitatie of activiteit.

❌ Mistake 3: Je denkt dat alleen een sollicitatiebrief telt.
✅ Instead: Ook een gesprek met een uitzendbureau, je cv aanpassen en een profiel op Werk.nl bijwerken kunnen meetellen.

❌ Mistake 4: Je documenten zijn niet netjes geordend.
✅ Instead: Maak een map op papier of op je telefoon en zet alles per week of per maand bij elkaar.

❌ Mistake 5: Je gebruikt moeilijke of onduidelijke taal in je uitleg.
✅ Instead: Schrijf kort en duidelijk: waar, wanneer en op welke baan je hebt gereageerd.

❌ Mistake 6: Je vergeet te controleren wat jouw gemeente, UWV of uitkeringsinstantie precies vraagt.
✅ Instead: Lees de brief goed en kijk hoeveel sollicitaties je moet doen en welk bewijs nodig is.

Dutch Practice Exercise (Oefen je Nederlands)

Reading comprehension: Read this paragraph in Dutch and answer the questions below.

Note: Click "Show answer" immediately after each question to check your understanding.

Mina zoekt werk in Nederland. Elke week bewaart zij bewijs van haar acties. Zij stuurt sollicitatiebrieven, spreekt met een uitzendbureau en past haar cv aan. Ook maakt zij screenshots van vacatures en e-mails. Zo kan Mina laten zien dat zij actief werk zoekt.

Vragen (Questions):

1. Mina bewaart elke week bewijs van haar acties.
   ✅ WAAR ❌ NIET WAAR
   

   Show answer

   ✅ WAAR – In de tekst staat: "Elke week bewaart zij bewijs van haar acties."

2. De ________ van vacatures en e-mails helpen als bewijs.
   

   Show answer

   screenshots

3. Wat doet Mina ook naast sollicitatiebrieven sturen?
   A) Zij gaat op vakantie
   B) Zij spreekt met een uitzendbureau
   C) Zij koopt nieuwe kleding
   D) Zij stopt met zoeken
   

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   B) Zij spreekt met een uitzendbureau

4. Mina laat niet zien dat zij actief werk zoekt.
   ✅ WAAR ❌ NIET WAAR
   

   Show answer

   ❌ NIET WAAR – Zij bewaart juist veel bewijs en laat haar activiteiten zien.

5. Zo kan Mina laten zien dat zij ________ werk zoekt.
   

   Show answer

   actief

Dutch Vocabulary List (Woordenlijst)

Master these terms from this article:

Nouns (Zelfstandige naamwoorden)

• het bewijs – the proof
• de sollicitatie – the job application
• de sollicitatiebrief – the application letter
• het cv – the CV
• de vacature – the vacancy
• de e-mail – the email
• de datum – the date
• het uitzendbureau – the temp agency
• het gesprek – the conversation / interview
• de werkgever – the employer
• de baan – the job
• de map – the folder
• de brief – the letter
• de gemeente – the municipality
• het UWV – UWV

Verbs (Werkwoorden)

• solliciteren – to apply for a job
• bewaren – to keep
• sturen – to send
• zoeken – to search
• laten zien – to show
• aanpassen – to adjust
• inschrijven – to register
• reageren – to respond
• printen – to print
• controleren – to check

Adjectives & Phrases (Bijvoeglijke naamwoorden & uitdrukkingen)

• actief werk zoeken – to actively look for work
• duidelijk bewijs – clear proof
• elke week – every week
• op tijd – on time
• netjes geordend – neatly organized
• per maand – per month
• een screenshot maken – to make a screenshot
• op een vacature reageren – to respond to a vacancy

Extra Oefeningen

1. Grammar: kies het goede lidwoord

Kies de of het.

1. ___ cv
   

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   het cv

2. ___ vacature
   

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   de vacature

3. ___ bewijs
   

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   het bewijs

4. ___ gemeente
   

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   de gemeente

5. ___ gesprek
   

   Show answer

   het gesprek

2. Grammar: maak de zin compleet met het goede werkwoord

Kies uit: zoekt, bewaart, stuurt, past, spreekt

1. Mina ________ haar cv aan.
   

   Show answer

   past

2. Zij ________ met een uitzendbureau.
   

   Show answer

   spreekt

3. Zij ________ e-mails als bewijs.
   

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   bewaart

4. Zij ________ sollicitatiebrieven.
   

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   stuurt

5. Zij ________ actief werk.
   

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   zoekt

3. Woordenschat: koppel het woord aan de betekenis

1. vacature
   A) gesprek voor werk
   B) open baan
   C) map met papieren
   

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   B) open baan

2. bewijs
   A) iets dat laat zien dat het waar is
   B) een soort computer
   C) een adres
   

   Show answer

   A) iets dat laat zien dat het waar is

3. uitzendbureau
   A) plek waar je brood koopt
   B) organisatie die helpt met werk
   C) school voor taal
   

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   B) organisatie die helpt met werk

4. cv
   A) lijst met je werk en studie
   B) brief van de gemeente
   C) bankpas
   

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   A) lijst met je werk en studie

4. Schrijven: zet de woorden in de goede volgorde

1. bewaart / bewijs / zij / elke week
   

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   Zij bewaart elke week bewijs.

2. op / reageert / een vacature / hij
   

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   Hij reageert op een vacature.

3. cv / ik / mijn / pas / aan
   

   Show answer

   Ik pas mijn cv aan.

4. met / spreekt / het uitzendbureau / Sara
   

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   Sara spreekt met het uitzendbureau.

5. Lezen en cultuur: hoe werkt het in Nederland?

Lees de zinnen en kies het goede antwoord.

1. Waarom bewaren mensen in Nederland vaak sollicitatiebewijs?
   A) Omdat zij een nieuw paspoort willen
   B) Omdat UWV of de gemeente soms wil zien dat zij werk zoeken
   C) Omdat elke werkgever dat elke dag vraagt
   

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   B) Omdat UWV of de gemeente soms wil zien dat zij werk zoeken

2. Wat is Werk.nl in deze context?
   A) Een website voor werk zoeken en uitkeringzaken
   B) Een supermarkt
   C) Een taalschool
   

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   A) Een website voor werk zoeken en uitkeringzaken

3. Wat is slim om te doen na een sollicitatie?
   A) Meteen alles weggooien
   B) De datum en de vacature bewaren
   C) Wachten zonder notities
   

   Show answer

   B) De datum en de vacature bewaren

6. Invuloefening: wat past goed?

Kies uit: datum, e-mail, cv, baan, map

1. Ik zoek een nieuwe ________.
   

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   baan

2. Bewaar de ________ van de sollicitatie goed.
   

   Show answer

   datum

3. Stuur een nette ________ naar de werkgever.
   

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   e-mail

4. Pas je ________ aan voor de functie.
   

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   cv

5. Zet alle papieren in een ________.
   

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   map

7. Mini schrijfopdracht

Schrijf 3 korte zinnen over jouw zoekactiviteiten. Gebruik deze woorden:

• ik
• vacature
• cv
• e-mail

Voorbeeldantwoord:

Show answer

Ik zoek een vacature. Ik pas mijn cv aan. Ik stuur een e-mail naar een werkgever.

8. Spreekoefening

Lees deze vragen hardop en geef zelf antwoord.

1. Zoek jij nu werk?
   

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   Voorbeeld: Ja, ik zoek nu werk. / Nee, ik zoek nu geen werk.

2. Hoe bewaar jij je sollicitatiebewijs?
   

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   Voorbeeld: Ik bewaar mijn bewijs in een map op mijn telefoon.

3. Met wie spreek jij over werk?
   

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   Voorbeeld: Ik spreek met een uitzendbureau of met het UWV.

Handige zinnen voor echte situaties

• Ik zoek actief werk.
  

  Show answer

  I am actively looking for work.

• Hier is het bewijs van mijn sollicitaties.
  

  Show answer

  Here is the proof of my job applications.

• Ik heb op drie vacatures gereageerd.
  

  Show answer

  I responded to three vacancies.

• Ik heb mijn cv aangepast.
  

  Show answer

  I updated my CV.

• Ik heb een gesprek met een uitzendbureau gehad.
  

  Show answer

  I had a meeting with a temp agency.

Korte tip

Maak elke week een klein overzicht:

• datum
• naam van bedrijf
• vacature
• wat je hebt gedaan
• bewijs

Zo is het makkelijker voor jou, en ook voor UWV of de gemeente.

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People Also Ask:

How do you show job search efforts for Inburgering in the Netherlands?

You usually show your job search efforts by keeping proof of what you have done to look for work. This can include job applications, rejection emails, vacancy screenshots, CV updates, motivation letters, notes from networking meetings, workshop attendance, and records of visits to job sites or employment agencies. For the Dutch labour market part of Inburgering, your portfolio or assignments should show that you understand how to search for work and that you have taken real steps toward employment.

What is the Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market exam?

The Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market exam, often called ONA, is the part of the Dutch civic exam that focuses on work and looking for work in the Netherlands. It covers topics such as finding vacancies, writing a CV, making application letters, preparing for interviews, and learning how the Dutch job market works. In many cases, it includes assignments or a portfolio and may also involve classes linked to labour market preparation.

What documents can be used as proof of job search in the Netherlands?

Proof can include copies of job applications, invitation emails, rejection letters, screenshots of submitted forms, your CV, cover letters, LinkedIn activity, registration with employment sites, and notes from meetings with recruiters or UWV. You can also include certificates from courses, volunteer work records, and feedback from career coaches. The best proof is dated, clear, and directly linked to your search for work.

Is volunteer work useful for Inburgering job search requirements?

Yes, volunteer work can be useful because it shows participation in Dutch society and contact with the labour market. It may also help you build work experience, improve your Dutch, and get references. If your Inburgering track involves preparing for work, volunteer work can support your portfolio when you explain what you learned and how it helps your chances of getting paid work.

What should be in an ONA portfolio?

An ONA portfolio usually includes assignments about your skills, work experience, occupations that fit you, job search methods, application documents, and your plan for working in the Netherlands. It may also contain evidence of labour market activities such as applications, networking, language learning, and meetings with advisers. The portfolio should show both self-reflection and practical action.

How many job applications should you keep proof of for Inburgering?

There is not always one fixed number that applies in every case, because the exact requirement can depend on your route, your municipality, or the exam format in place. A safe approach is to keep proof of every serious step you take. That means saving all applications, replies, vacancy details, and related documents, so you can show a clear record of your efforts if asked.

Can UWV help with finding work in the Netherlands?

Yes, UWV can help people who want to work in the Netherlands. It offers vacancy listings, information about working in the Netherlands, and support with job seeking. Depending on your situation, you may also get advice on applications, work possibilities, and labour market access. If you are collecting proof of job search efforts, records of your contact with UWV can also be useful.

How easy is it to get a job in the Netherlands as a foreigner?

It depends on your field, language level, work permit status, and experience. Jobs in tech, engineering, healthcare, logistics, and some specialist fields are often easier to find than jobs that need fluent Dutch. Foreigners with strong English, in-demand skills, and the right residence status may find openings faster. People in other fields may need more time, stronger Dutch, and a wider search.

What jobs are most in demand in the Netherlands in 2026?

In 2026, jobs often mentioned as in demand in the Netherlands include software development, AI-related roles, cybersecurity, engineering, healthcare, logistics, finance, compliance, and life sciences. Demand can differ by region and employer, and Dutch language skills may still be required for many roles. Checking current vacancies on Dutch job boards gives the clearest picture of what employers need right now.

Is there a job search visa in the Netherlands?

Yes, the Netherlands has routes that let some people stay and look for work, such as the orientation year residence permit for highly educated persons. This permit is aimed at eligible graduates and certain researchers, and it gives them time to find a job or start a business in the Netherlands. It is not the same as the Inburgering process, but people often search for both topics together because both relate to living and working in the country.

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FAQ

How many job applications should I send to show serious job search effort?

There is no single official number that fits everyone. What matters most is consistency, variety, and proof. A stronger file usually shows repeated weekly effort, different channels, tailored applications, and follow-up actions instead of many rushed applications sent in one day.

Can volunteer work help prove labour market activity for inburgering?

Yes, volunteer work can support your story, especially if it helps you gain experience, practise Dutch, build contacts, or move toward paid work. It is not the same as a paid job search, but it can strengthen your overall effort and show active participation.

What should I do if employers never reply to my applications?

Still record everything. Save the vacancy, your application email, the date, and note “no response yet” in your logbook. No reply does not mean no effort. It often helps to send a short follow-up message after one or two weeks.

Is it better to apply in Dutch or in English in the Netherlands?

That depends on the vacancy and sector. If the job ad is in Dutch, apply in simple Dutch if possible. If the role is international, English may be accepted. For inburgering-related proof, showing that you tried to use Dutch can make your effort look stronger.

How can I prove networking if I did not submit a formal application?

Write down who you spoke with, when, and what was discussed. Save WhatsApp messages, LinkedIn messages, or notes from a call or visit. Networking proof is valid when it shows concrete job-search actions, not just general social contact or casual conversation.

What is the difference between job search proof for ONA and MAP?

The older ONA system and the newer MAP approach are not the same, so expectations can differ depending on your situation. If you are unsure which applies to you, check the difference between ONA and MAP before preparing your documents.

Do I need a perfect CV to demonstrate job search efforts?

No. Your CV does not need to be perfect, but it should be clear, updated, and relevant to the jobs you want. A simple one-page CV is often enough for entry-level roles. It is better to have a good basic CV than wait too long.

What if I have foreign diplomas or work experience from another country?

You should still include them in your CV and explain them simply. If possible, request a credential evaluation through IDW, because this can help employers understand your education level. This is especially useful when you want to match past experience to Dutch vacancies.

How does MAP connect to showing that I am trying to find work?

MAP is focused on preparing for participation in the Dutch labour market, so your job-search activities fit naturally into that process. If you want the legal and practical background, read what MAP means under the 2021 law.

What is the best way to organise all my evidence for the civic integration work module?

Use one folder with subfolders for CVs, applications, screenshots, emails, and networking notes. Keep a weekly logbook with dates, company names, and outcomes. If you also need broader preparation steps, review how to complete MAP requirements.

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