D.R.S.P. asks:
Recently, the department at a large chip company where I’ve worked for several years was closed, leaving me to look for another job. That wouldn’t be the biggest problem, but there are a few circumstances that complicate my situation.
Specifically, I’ve been on sick leave for several months, which means my notice period hasn’t started yet. The severance package hasn’t become available either, because I haven’t signed the termination agreement. I think I could gradually start working part-time again, but there’s no opportunity for a gradual reintegration process here. Furthermore, as soon as I do sign that agreement, I’ll be on a hard deadline: As a highly skilled migrant, I must find a new job within three months, or I lose my residence permit.
Truth be told, my illness works out somewhat well: It gives me more time to explore my options and I can dedicate some time to the graduation project for my master’s degree, which I put on hold a few years ago.
Even though I don’t technically have to yet, I’ve already started applying a bit. I’ve sent out – I think – about thirty applications by now, but I’m getting very little response. That doesn’t really matter, as most of those vacancies aren’t interesting anyway. I’ve also written a two-page cover letter.
Still, I’m getting somewhat concerned, because this situation can’t go on for much longer. Ideally, I’d like to find a job first and then wrap things up with my old employer. What do you advise?
The headhunter answers:
It’s no picnic to lose your job, certainly not when you’re on sick leave. On the other hand, you’re currently under less pressure than your former colleagues who, if they haven’t found a new job yet, have landed on unemployment benefits.
Looking at your job-hunting activities, I’d aim less for volume and more for quality. Applying for positions that aren’t interesting to you is unnecessary and counterproductive – unless you’re expecting something else from it, such as an unadvertised position that’s interesting.
A two-page cover letter won’t be read by anyone other than yourself. I think putting your motivation on paper is good exercise, but in terms of effectiveness, it plays a minor role in an application process. You’d be better off focusing your attention on a solid CV and a decisive approach to your applications.
Another matter entirely is the fact that you haven’t finished your master’s degree. That’s a missed opportunity, and if you can rectify it now, I’d strongly urge you to do so. I don’t quite understand why you aren’t focusing on this full force; that degree will serve you well in your future career, likely starting with your very next job.
Moreover, earning this master’s degree from a Dutch university entitles you to an orientation year for highly educated persons (“zoekjaar hoogopgeleiden”). This is a residence permit from the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) that gives you one year to look for a job in the Netherlands. During this year, you can work for any employer in the Netherlands without bureaucratic red tape. The right to apply for an orientation year remains valid for three years after graduation, so for the next few years, you won’t have to worry about your status.
