Research forms the core of each Top Employers project. Through objective, fact based research, we determine whether an organisation meets the requirements and thus qualifies for the exclusive Top Employers certification.This selection process is managed very carefully. The Top Employers certification is only awarded to organisations that meet the highest standards in HR. This is why the Top Employers methodology was awarded with full marks on credibility by the Dutch Ministery of Economic Affairs.

1. Shortlist
The first step in identifying the nation's Top Employers is to prepare a shortlist of organisations that qualify for the research phase. This is based on a thorough market assessment made in close collaboration with our leading HR partners.

In the research, all critical areas of the HR Management of the participating organisations are assessed. Key drivers, practices and policies for criteria such as Pay & Benefits, Training & Development, Career Opportunities, Working Conditions and Company Culture are reviewed thoroughly.

2. The HR Best Practices Survey
The Top Employers HR Best Practices Survey consists of 75 questions on HR policy and practices. This is proprietary methodology based on our many years’ international expertise.

3. Interview
The third step of the research consists of an interview with the organisation's (HR) Management and two employees by a member of our editorial team of HR business journalists. The aim of the interview is two-fold:

- An additional audit to check specific answers to the questionnaire.
- Generate input for the profile on the organisation that will appear in the book and on the web site. The objective is to capture the heartbeat of the organisation and to paint a vivid picture of what it is like to work there.