Way2Work

Practicalities

Navigating the Belgian job market can be a daunting task. From how to write a great CV to the languages you need to speak, launching your career in a new country can be overwhelming - and almost like a full-time job in itself. But it doesn't have to be this way.

The Way2Work meetups are where you'll get all the answers to your career-related questions and more. Hosted by Isabelle, Céline & Britt from SkillbuilderS at the IHL, this informal get-together will provide a clear path and concrete guidance to (re)launch your career in Belgium with ease and confidence.

Feel free to send us any questions/subjects when subscribing via the form (see dates above).

What you'll get

• Guided dialogues to answer those frequently asked questions about finding a job in Belgium
• Special career-themed presentation to support your career development journey
• Connect with like-minded international talent that shares job-related experiences such as yours
• This combination of information, learning, and networking will empower you with the right tools to enhance your professional development journey and achieve your ultimate career objectives
• Flexibility, as you needn't commit to the entire series. You come once, twice, ten times or every session, that's completely up to you
• Access to a closed LinkedIn group with additional information, job postings and Q&A opportunities
• A steady pace of meetings: Way2Work takes place every other Thursday
• As a bonus, the International House staff are usually around too, so it's a nice occassion to get other information about life in Leuven as well.

You are welcome to join this informal event free of charge. Registration is not mandatory, although we kindly ask that you do register beforehand. It will help us greatly to prepare the meetings. That being said, walk-ins are very welcome too of course!

The next step in your career is one click away...register via the dates below.

Meet SkillBuilderS

SkillBuilderS is family business that supports companies & individuals since 1986 in discovering, developing & launching their talents in their search for durable workplace happiness.

The most important services: coaching job seekers, outplacement, career guidance, assessment & development, durable organization & talent development

About the coach(es):

Isabelle has a background in Social Work & Communications Management. She has coaching experience with over 55’s & non-native Dutch job seekers. Since 2022, she works as jobcoach in the region of Flemish-Brabant, where she engages with companies/partners in order to help job seekers find their newest professional challenge.

Céline is a dedicated professional with a background in both social work and educational behavioral sciences. With those backgrounds, Céline brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as a Career Counsellor. Since 2023, she has been empowering job seekers from diverse backgrounds, including non-native Dutch speakers, to navigate the Belgian job market with confidence. Known for her enthusiasm and positive outlook, Céline is committed to providing guidance and support to help every individual reach their full potential.

Britt: Together with her background in IT and recruitment, she has a proven track record of guiding people on the Belgian job-market and through the heat of job applications. She is a motivated and creative career counselor since 2024, where she supports native and international talent on the job market. Always happy to talk about your career concerns, questions and cats.

When

Every other Thursday from 13:00-16:00 (except during school holidays). Check out the exact dates and topics below.

• 1/16/2025 Applying in Belgium 101

We answer all your work related questions and inspire each other with good practices. We have a bundle of tips & tricks ready to help you find your way into the Belgian job market.

• 23-1-2025 Temporary work as a first step into the Belgian job market
  (extra session)

Interim agencies? Headhunters? Selection offices? How do they work? Is it interesting for me? What's the difference? Do they have jobs in my line of work? Do they only give temporary contracts? And what are the practicalities about working with these kinds of offices? During a group conversation we answer these questions and many more.

• 1/30/2025 The Belgian Job Market

At this session we talk about the Belgian Job Market. We will talk about what you want to know, but also what you have to know when searching for new opportunities, such as:
•Which professions are flourishing?
•Who will be your competetion?
•Where to begin when looking for vacancies?
•What about internships or temping?
•Which strenghts can you put to your advantage when applying?

• 2/13/2025 Resume & Cover letter

Searching for work? It all starts with a qualitative resume and an attention grabbing cover letter! In this session we discuss the do's and don'ts in resume and cover letter and get you going with your own professional documents.

• 2/27/2025 Cultural differences

In this session, we’ll explore the cultural similarities and differences between Belgium and other countries. From a to z, you’ll gain key insights to navigate the job market effectively, whether you’re applying in Belgium or abroad.

• 3/13/2025 Elevator pitch

Want to make an impact in a brief moment? Learn how to pitch yourself or perfect your existing pitch. This can be used for job events, interviews and network events.

• 3/27/2025 Job interview

In this session we will talk about how an interview in Belgium usually goes. What can you expect? What does a future employer expect from you when you arrive at an interview? Any difficulties with certain interview questions? We will claryfy them for you!

• 4/24/2025 Applying in Belgium 101

We answer all your work related questions and inspire each other with good practices. We have a bundle of tips & tricks ready to help you find your way into the Belgian job market.

• 5/8/2025 How to read a vacancy

After this session, you'll know how to use a vacancy to your advantage. You'll know what to focus on, how to read between the lines and apply qualitatively.

• 5/22/2025 Map your skillset

Have you ever thought about the skillset you bring to an employer? I mean, really consciously thought about how to sell yourself and your skillset best? During this workshop we not only talk about hard & soft skills. We put our words into action in order to broaden the list of skills you can talk about in conversation with employers.

• 6/5/2025 Resume & Cover letter

Searching for work? It all starts with a qualitative resume and an attention grabbing cover letter! In this session we discuss the do's and don'ts in resume and cover letter and get you going with your own professional documents.

• 6/19/2025 City walk

Today we leave the class-scene. Instead, we go for a work related city-walk in Leuven. We pay a visit to some interesting organisations that might be able to support you in your job hunt. Please be at the International House at 13:00 sharp for take-off.

Where

International House Leuven (Tiensevest 60)

Price

Free. With thanks to the City of Leuven for funding these events.