Pointers for a NOWJOBS profile that catches the eye

POV: you have downloaded the NOWJOBS app and are ready to find a fun student job. We like your enthusiasm! When opening the app, you'll see an overview of the available jobs in your region. Want us to recommend you the right jobs, and at the same time convince employers? Then you’ll need a profile that stands out. Stay tuned and find out what employers look for, plus what you should definitely include in your profile.

STEP 1 — Make sure your profile is complete

Just as you want to get as much information as possible about the job and the workplace, employers also want to get to know you. Therefore, make sure all the necessary information is filled out in order to draw up a contract:

• Name
• Age
• Address
• Phone number
• E-mail address
• Bank details

Fill out as much as possible about your dream job and your capabilities. That way, we can show you jobs that suit you and employers will know if there’s a match with what they’re looking for:
 

• Driving license
• Education and/or level of study
• Your availability
• The languages you speak
• Your experience
• …
   

Curious what employers see when looking at your profile? Consult your public account via 'My Account' and view your own profile through the eyes of companies. You’ll immediately see what needs to be completed or which items need a better description.
Forgot to fill something out? No worries—we’ll help you remember with a progress bar that appears when you open the app. The more you fill out, the fuller the bar and the higher your level in our app. That way, you’ll go from rookie to professional in no time.

STEP 2 — Fill out a second address

Have you entered your home address in the app, but do you often stay at a second address as well? Maybe you have a flat in another city, a holiday home by the sea… Make sure to enter this in the app.

In 'Settings', click ‘Address’ and enter a second place of residence. By adjusting the radius, choose how many kilometres from your home you want to work. The result: a lot more vacancies at your disposal.

STEP 3 — Add a photo

Say cheese! A profile with a picture of yourself is 86% more likely to be found by employers. Don't worry—you don't need to be a model or have an expensive, professional photo taken for this.

DO:

• Choose a recent picture, or take a new one. Make sure you’re the only person in it.
• Pose in front of a neutral background. A good quality selfie in front of a white wall in your home will definitely do.
• Turn that frown upside down and smile neutrally. A friendly face makes a better impression.

DON’T:

• Avoid holiday photos with sunglasses on or a cocktail in your hand.
• A photo from ten years ago or in which you have a completely different look than now won’t do.
• Don’t use photos with other people or pets in them. Employers won't see exactly who they’re hiring and will be more likely to decline—no matter how cute your puppy or kitten may be.

STEP 4 — Write a positive but honest bio

Your bio is the perfect chance to promote yourself. Let employers know what your strengths and talents are. Don't be too modest—be sure to show what qualities set you apart from others. Time to excel.
Tip: keep it short and relevant. Employers don’t need to know your entire life story, they just need to be able to see at a glance what kind of person you are in the workplace. The most important thing, both for you and your future employer: be honest. Otherwise you might get a job you don’t like or aren’t able to do.

Having difficulties describing yourself? We get it. Ask your friends or family how they would describe you. Put it into your own words, et voilà—you’re done. Bonus: describing yourself like this is a great way to get to know your own talents and capabilities. Once you know them, you’ll be more confident during job interviews.

STEP 5 — Sum up experiences and give concrete explanations

Show off past work experiences. In the app, give your experiences ratings from one to five stars per area. This way, clients are able to see how highly you rate yourself in a particular area.

Also important: explain your work experience as well as possible. Employers like to know the specifics of what you’re good at. Let's put it to the test—who would you pick?

A: “Two years of experience in ministry.”

B: “I’ve been working in the ministry for the past two years, with great pleasure. I walked with trays, was responsible for my own area, settled with the guests, worked with my own handheld and made sure the guests had a nice experience in the restaurant from beginning to end.”

Is your profile up to scratch and have you found the job of your dreams among the vacancies? Time to show you’re interested. In a few clicks, introduce yourself to your future employer and (hopefully) receive a contract proposal. Good luck!