Top 5 job search sites in Belgium
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Are you wondering about the best digital platforms to find a position that matches your profile and your ambitions? Before exploring the best job search sites in Belgium, it is important to first understand the context of the Belgian job market. What sectors are actively recruiting? How is the unemployment rate doing? What are the regional particularities and particular challenges that young job seekers with an immigration background face?
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1. The Job Market in Belgium: An Overview
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In January 2024, the employment rate of people aged 20 to 64 in Belgium was 71.9%, marking a slight increase (+0.3 points) compared to the previous year. The unemployment rate for the 15-64 age group was 6.4%, down by 0.5 points compared to January 2023. Although these figures are close to the European average, they mask significant regional disparities. The employment rate varies significantly from one region to another, from 75.5% in Flanders to 64.4% in Wallonia and only 61.9% in Brussels. Conversely, the unemployment rate is higher in Brussels (14.9%), compared to Wallonia (8.7%) and Flanders (3.8%).
The sectors offering the most job opportunities are mainly services, including trade, health, education and public administration, which account for over 80% of jobs. Industry and construction employ 13% and 6% of the paid workforce respectively. Agriculture, forestry and fishing, although they account for only 1% of wage employment, see their activity increase in spring.
The most dynamic sectors, in terms of job creation, are health and social work, education, business services and IT activities.
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2. The Best Generalist Platforms
In Belgium, four public employment services stand out, covering the various linguistic regions of the country. These platforms offer a range of services such as job offers, training, advice and assistance for professional integration. They are freely accessible to all job seekers, whether they are of Belgian or foreign nationality.
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2.1 LeForem
LeForem represents the public employment service for the Walloon Region, operating mainly in French. Its website offers a multitude of job offers, allows you to submit your CV, create job alerts, apply online, apply online, access relevant information on the job market, discover jobs in demand, take training courses, either online or in person, and benefit from personalized support. It is also possible to apply for unemployment benefit.
LeForem can be reached by phone, email or directly in its regional offices.
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2.2 VDAB
The VDAB is the public employment service for Flanders, with Dutch as the official language. Its services, similar to those of LeForem, are available in Dutch on its website.
Job offers in English or French are also available for those who are proficient in these languages. The VDAB offers specific services to foreign workers, including Dutch language courses, skills tests and intercultural workshops. For more information or help, you can contact the VDAB by phone, email or go to one of its local offices.
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2.3 ACTIRIS
ACTIRIS, the public employment service for the Brussels-Capital Region, operates in French and Dutch. On its website, you will find job offers, be able to submit your resume, create job alerts, create job alerts, apply online, access information on the labor market, discover promising sectors, take online or face-to-face training courses, and benefit from personalized support. It is also possible to apply for unemployment benefit.
ACTIRIS can be reached by telephone, e-mail or directly in its communal offices.
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3. The Best Specialty Sites
In addition to generalist platforms, Belgium benefits from sites dedicated to specific sectors, particular regions or distinct worker profiles. These platforms are invaluable for refining your job search, finding offers that precisely match your profile and aspirations, and connecting you with potential employers. Discover below two of the most recognized specialized sites in Belgium.
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3.1 StepStone Belgium
StepStone BelgiumE stands out for its wealth of job offers in all sectors, especially for positions requiring a high level of qualification. The site offers you the opportunity to browse ads for positions as executive, manager, consultant, engineer, developer, and many others. You can also create your profile, submit your resume, receive job notifications, apply directly online, and get expert career advice.
This site is accessible in French, Dutch and English, thus ensuring complete coverage of Belgian territory.
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3.2 Jobat
Jobat is positioned as a major player in employment in Belgium, with a particular emphasis on jobs linked to the Flemish region. The platform allows you to consult opportunities in public administration, education, the health sector, culture, sport, among others. Like on StepStone, you can create your account, submit your resume, receive job alerts, apply online, and access valuable information on the job market and discover potential employers.
Jobat is mainly available in Dutch and English, and focuses on the Flemish region.
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You are now well informed about the best job search platforms in Belgium, whether general or specialized! Of course, there are other platforms (for example: Student.be for the search for an internship or a first professional experience, or Meet My Job to find job offers that have a positive impact on our planet), and it is also essential to keep in mind support resources and programs, such as the mentoring offered by DUO for a JOB, which can greatly facilitate your integration into the labor market.
This article is based on recent data provided by Statbel, the Belgian statistical office, and The ONSS, the National Social Security Office.
