How to work with Waves staffing agency in 2026
Waves is a Netherlands-based staffing agency specializing in the business services sector. They connect professionals with temporary and permanent roles across corporate functions. The most important thing to know is that Waves operates as a bridge to hidden opportunities, meaning they often fill roles that are never publicly advertised.
Who pays Waves
Paid by the employer, not by you.
Waves earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.
What that means for you
Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.
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Sectors we track
Global
Presence
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Sectors
What specific roles does Waves focus on?
Waves concentrates on the business services sector, which includes roles in administration, project management, human resources, and professional support. They typically place candidates in mid-level to senior operational positions that keep Dutch companies running efficiently. If your expertise lies in optimizing business processes or supporting corporate infrastructure, you are likely within their core focus area.
Where you meet
How does the staffing process work at Waves?
The process begins with a profile review followed by an intake interview to assess your skills and career goals. Once registered, your profile is matched against active vacancies within their business services network. If a match is found, your recruiter will present your credentials to the client and manage the interview scheduling and feedback loop on your behalf.
What should I expect during the engagement?
Expect a professional, transactional relationship where communication is focused on specific job opportunities. Waves recruiters will contact you when they have a role that aligns with your profile, but they do not typically provide general career coaching. The client pays the agency fee, so there is no cost to you as a candidate for their placement services.
Your side
How can I get on the radar of a Waves recruiter?
To stand out, ensure your CV is optimized with specific keywords related to business services, such as project coordination, stakeholder management, or operational support. Submit your application through their official portal rather than generic job boards to ensure you are in their internal database. A concise, professional cover letter highlighting your specific industry experience in the Netherlands will significantly improve your visibility.
Is Waves the right agency for my job search?
Waves is an excellent partner if you are seeking stability and professional roles within the Dutch business services market. However, if you are looking for roles in highly specialized technical fields or creative industries, their network may not be the best fit. They are best suited for candidates who want a streamlined, efficient path to corporate employment rather than long-term career mentorship.
How to work with Waves: candidate playbook
- Tailor your CV to highlight specific business services experience.
- Submit your profile directly via the Waves website portal.
- Keep a log of every role Waves submits you for.
- Respond to recruiter emails within 24 hours to show availability.
- Ask for feedback after every interview to improve your chances.
Frequently asked questions
Should I register with multiple staffing agencies in the Netherlands?
Yes, it is common practice to register with several agencies to maximize your exposure to different job markets. Just ensure you keep track of which agency submitted your profile to which company to avoid duplicate applications.
What happens to my personal data after I submit my CV?
Waves processes your data in accordance with GDPR regulations. Your information is stored in their secure database and is only shared with potential employers after you have given explicit consent for a specific role.
Should I still apply directly to a company if I am working with Waves?
You should generally avoid applying to the same role through multiple channels. If you apply directly and through an agency, it can create administrative confusion and may disqualify you from the recruitment process.
How should I follow up if I have not heard back from my recruiter?
A polite follow-up email one week after your initial submission is appropriate. Keep your inquiry brief, reference the specific role or date of your registration, and ask if there are any updates regarding your status.
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