The labour market remains tight, forcing employers to come up with creative solutions. Where previously a list of job requirements was often a hard condition, we now see a clear trend: employers are increasingly willing to let go of them. From recent UWV research reveals that as many as 70% of employers have hired someone in the past two years who did not fully meet all the requirements. And that opens doors to new, sometimes unexpected talent.
Work experience and qualifications less decisive
In particular, work experience (56%) and professional knowledge (54%) no longer appear to be sacrosanct. Employers are increasingly choosing motivation, eagerness to learn and potential, even if candidates do not have the right diplomas or skills. Almost half of employers reported hiring someone who did not have the right papers or skills. And this is not a last resort - it is a deliberate strategy in a changing job market.
Why? Because many employers realise that professional knowledge is easier to learn than the right attitude or motivation. Moreover, we see that employers are willing to invest in their new employees. In 2024, 74% of employers offered training - up sharply from 53% in 2021. Also, in 42% of cases, the job package was adjusted to enable a good match.
Werkgeversevent Werkcentrum Helmond-De Peel: looking beyond the CV
The first Werkgeversevent of Werkcentrum Helmond-De Peel, on 1 April 2025, focused on this theme. Together with local employers, we went in search of hidden talent in the region. An inspiring lecture on inclusion and diversity showed that looking beyond the CV is not only necessary, but also pays off. In four workshops, employers were given practical tools to create opportunities for target groups that are often overlooked:
- Youth is the future: How do you address GenZ in a way that really works?
- Foreign speakers in your organisation: Enrich your team by investing in language and culture.
- Expert and experienced: Discover the potential of over-50s bursting with ambition.
- Dealing with mentally vulnerable people: Learn how to successfully mentor resilient talent.
The common thread of both the UWV research and the Werkcentrum Helmond-De Peel employer event? As an employer, you yourself can make a difference by broadening your perspective. Especially now, at a time when the labour market is under pressure, there are opportunities to make big steps with small adjustments. With the right guidance, an open mind and a bit of guts, wonderful matches can be made - often with people who would otherwise stay out of the picture.
Building an inclusive labour market together
Werkcentrum Helmond-De Peel remains committed to connecting employers and jobseekers. By looking beyond job requirements, together we build a labour market where everyone gets a chance to showcase their talents.
Insights and figures from UWV's research have been used for this story. Want to know more about this research? Then visit: https://www.werk.nl/arbeidsmarktinformatie/werving-behoud/werkgevers-laten-functie-eisen-los