Looking for a job

Introduction to Job Search Language Skills

This lesson focuses on essential Dutch vocabulary and expressions for looking for a job. You will learn how to prepare application documents, search for vacancies online, and ask for information about job interviews. The content is suitable for an A2 level learner and emphasizes practical language use in real-life job hunting scenarios.

Key Language Topics Covered

Separable Verbs (Scheidbare Werkwoorden)

A major part of this lesson is understanding and using separable verbs correctly in sentences. These verbs consist of a prefix and a base verb, which separate in certain tenses and contexts. Examples include:

• bijwerken (to update) – e.g., "Ik werk mijn cv bij." (I update my CV.)
• voorbereiden (to prepare) – e.g., "Ik bereid mijn sollicitatiebrief voor." (I prepare my application letter.)
• afstuderen (to graduate) – e.g., "Ik studeerde af aan de universiteit." (I graduated from university.)

Practical Expressions and Vocabulary

You will encounter useful phrases for job hunting, such as:

• "Ik moet mijn cv bijwerken voor die nieuwe baan."
  (I need to update my CV for that new job.)
• "Vergeet niet om een korte begeleidende brief mee te sturen."
  (Don't forget to send a short cover letter along.)
• "Wanneer kan ik binnenkomen voor het sollicitatiegesprek?"
  (When can I come in for the interview?)

Online Job Search and Application Process

You'll learn how to navigate Dutch job portals and discuss requirements for job vacancies. Key verbs such as zoeken (to search), vinden (to find), and solliciteren (to apply) will be practiced. This prepares you to write and send CVs and motivation letters effectively.

Verb Conjugations and Practice

The lesson includes verb tables with different tenses, focusing on verbs common in job-seeking contexts. Examples include:

• Voorbereiden – present tense forms like "ik bereid", "jij bereidt"
• Bellen (to call) – present tense: "ik bel", "hij belt"
• Solliciteren – perfect tense: "ik heb gesolliciteerd"

Useful Differences Between English and Dutch

Unlike English, Dutch frequently uses separable verbs, which can split into two parts depending on sentence structure. For example, "bijwerken" means "to update," but in a sentence, the verb prefix "bij" separates: "Ik werk mijn cv bij." This separation does not happen in English phrasal verbs as consistently. Also, Dutch verb conjugations show endings that depend on the subject; for example, "ik werk" (I work) versus "hij werkt" (he works), which may differ from English conjugation patterns.

Useful phrases for learners include:

• "Sollicitatiebrief" – cover letter
• "Vacature" – job vacancy
• "Uitzendbureau" – employment agency
• "CV" – résumé or curriculum vitae (same word)

Summary

This content prepares you for real conversations and written communication involved in job searching in Dutch. You'll practice dialogues about sending CVs, searching jobs online, and asking for interview details. The focus on separable verbs and verb conjugations ensures that you can express yourself clearly in these common professional contexts.