Dutch people apply for jobs far less in the summer compared to other Europeans, says online strategist Wesley Seuren. However, they do spend time reflecting on what’s important to them, what they truly want in their careers, and whether they’re happy with their current jobs. Wesley’s advice to employers: stay visible this summer and be ready to launch job campaigns as soon as the vacation period ends.
It’s quite remarkable: according to research by Indeed, the largest job site in the Benelux, the number of job applications in the Netherlands drops by about 30% during the summer months compared to the rest of the year. In contrast, this decline is only around 15% in countries like Germany and the United Kingdom. This is something employers should take into account when planning recruitment campaigns, says Wesley.
Why do Dutch people apply less in summer?
There are several reasons why job applications decrease in the Netherlands during the summer, Wesley explains. “Apparently, Dutch people see summer as a time to relax and travel. They reflect on their careers and future plans, but they’re less likely to take immediate action, such as actually applying for jobs. It’s similar to how they apply less during weekends compared to weekdays. Interestingly, this is another area where the Dutch differ from other countries. But what’s funny is that as soon as they get back to work, they start applying again—especially in September and on Monday evenings.”
What does this mean for employers?
Even though job applications decrease, this doesn’t mean employers should pause their recruitment efforts, according to Wesley. “On the contrary, visibility is crucial right now. Employers need to remain active in the job market during the summer months. By staying visible, companies ensure they remain top-of-mind for potential candidates. When employees return to work after their holidays and realize they’re ready for a change, your company will be the first one they think of.”
Prepare for September
Preparing recruitment campaigns for immediately after the summer is essential. “Every year, we see a peak in job applications in September and October. Employers who anticipate this and have their campaigns ready in time fill their vacancies faster. Make sure everything is in place so you can hit the ground running as soon as the peak months begin.”
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