Recruitment In Bulgaria: Practical Guide And Key Tips

Published on September 29, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Bulgaria offers a pool of skilled and motivated talent for companies seeking personnel. However, recruiting effectively in this Eastern European country requires a strategic approach and a good understanding of the local labor market. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you recruit successfully in Bulgaria.

Understanding the Bulgarian Labor Market

Before launching your recruitment process, it’s essential to thoroughly understand the specific characteristics of the employment market in Bulgaria. The country has a qualified workforce, particularly in technology and service sectors. The unemployment rate is relatively low, at 4.5% in 2024, which means competition for attracting the best talent is strong.

Bulgaria faces a demographic challenge with an aging population and emigration of young graduates. This creates a skills shortage in certain fields, particularly IT, engineering, and finance. Companies must therefore intensify their efforts to stand out and attract qualified candidates.

The average salary in Bulgaria is approximately 1,500 leva (about 770 euros) per month in 2024. However, compensation varies significantly by sector and experience levels. Foreign companies typically offer higher salaries to attract the best profiles.

• Information technology
• Business process outsourcing (BPO)
• Automotive industry
• Tourism
• Financial services

Effective Recruitment Strategies in Bulgaria

To recruit successfully in Bulgaria, it’s crucial to adopt a multidimensional approach adapted to the local context. Here are the most effective strategies:

1. Develop Your Employer Brand

In a competitive job market, your image as an employer is paramount. Highlight what makes your company unique and attractive to Bulgarian candidates. This can include:

– Your corporate culture and values – Professional development opportunities – Work-life balance – Competitive benefits

Communicate actively about these aspects through your website, social media, and at recruitment events. A Manpower Group study reveals that 58% of Bulgarian candidates consider employer reputation as a key factor in their career choice.

2. Optimize Your Job Postings

Your advertisements must be clear, attractive, and adapted to the expectations of Bulgarian candidates. Make sure to:

– Write detailed job descriptions in Bulgarian and English – Highlight your company’s competitive advantages – Specify the salary range (a practice appreciated in Bulgaria) – Emphasize advancement and training opportunities

3. Diversify Your Recruitment Channels

Don’t limit yourself to a single channel for posting your openings. Use a combination of:

– Popular job sites in Bulgaria (Jobs.bg, Zaplata.bg, Karieri.bg) – Professional social networks (LinkedIn is widely used by Bulgarian executives) – Local recruitment agencies – University partnerships for recruiting recent graduates – Referrals from your current employees (very effective in Bulgaria)

4. Focus on Digital Recruitment

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital recruitment tools in Bulgaria. According to a survey by Adecco Bulgaria, 72% of Bulgarian companies increased their use of video interviews in 2024. Integrate these tools into your process:

– Video interviews for initial selection stages – Online tests to assess technical skills – Application tracking platforms for effective follow-up

Where to Find the Best Candidates in Bulgaria

To build a strong talent pool in Bulgaria, it’s essential to know where to look. Here are the main recruitment sources to leverage:

1. Online Job Platforms

Job sites are very popular in Bulgaria. The most used ones are:

– Jobs.bg: The country’s largest job site with over 20,000 active listings – Zaplata.bg: Particularly appreciated for IT and finance positions – Karieri.bg: Focused on executive and professional positions

According to a study by the National Employment Agency, 65% of Bulgarian job seekers use these platforms as their primary search source.

2. Professional Social Networks

LinkedIn has become an essential tool for recruitment in Bulgaria, especially for qualified positions. The country has over 1 million LinkedIn users in 2024, representing approximately 14% of the active population. Use the platform to:

– Post your job openings – Actively search for potential candidates – Develop your employer brand

3. Job Fairs and Recruitment Events

Physical events remain an excellent way to meet candidates in person. The main job fairs in Bulgaria include:

– “National Career Days”: The country’s largest job fair, organized annually in several cities – “Job Tiger Career Fair”: Focused on recent graduates and early-career professionals

4. University Partnerships

Bulgaria has several reputable universities that train talent in sought-after fields. Establish partnerships with institutions like:

– Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” – Technical University of Sofia – American University in Bulgaria

These partnerships can include internships, mentoring programs, or company presentations to attract the best students.

5. Specialized Recruitment Agencies

For hard-to-fill positions or very specific profiles, local recruitment agencies can be very helpful. They know the Bulgarian market well and often have access to a network of passive candidates. Some reputable agencies:

– Manpower Bulgaria – Adecco Bulgaria – JobTiger

Selection Process Adapted to the Bulgarian Context

An effective selection process is crucial for identifying the best candidates while providing a positive experience for applicants. Here’s how to optimize your process in Bulgaria:

1. Application Screening

Start with a thorough analysis of CVs and cover letters. Note: In Bulgaria, it’s common to include a photo on the CV, but don’t base your judgment on this element to avoid any discrimination.

Use automated screening tools to save time, but ensure they’re adapted to the Bulgarian context (for example, recognition of local diplomas).

2. Skills Testing

Skills tests are highly appreciated in Bulgaria for objectively evaluating candidates. Depending on the position, you can include:

– Technical tests for IT or engineering positions – Language tests (English or other relevant language) – Personality and aptitude tests

A JobTiger study shows that 72% of companies in Bulgaria use skills tests in their recruitment process.

3. Structured Interviews

Prepare structured interviews with standardized questions for all candidates. This allows for more objective and fair evaluation. Include:

– Questions about professional experience – Situational scenarios – Questions about motivation and career goals

Remember to adapt your interview style to Bulgarian culture. Bulgarians generally appreciate direct and honest communication.

4. Reference Checks

Reference checking is a common practice in Bulgaria. Contact previous employers or supervisors to obtain information about the candidate’s performance and professional behavior. Make sure you have the candidate’s permission before proceeding.

5. Job Offer and Negotiation

Once the ideal candidate is identified, present a detailed job offer in writing. Be prepared to negotiate, as this is common practice in Bulgaria. According to a Manpower Bulgaria survey, 65% of Bulgarian professionals negotiate their salary when receiving a new job offer.

• Salary and benefits
• Working conditions (hours, remote work, etc.)
• Professional development opportunities
• Start date and probation period

Competitive Job Offers to Attract Bulgarian Talent

In a competitive job market like Bulgaria’s, it’s crucial to offer attractive packages to attract and retain the best talent. Here are the key elements to consider:

1. Competitive Compensation

While salary isn’t the only motivating factor, it remains a crucial element. According to a Mercer study, salaries in Bulgaria increased by an average of 5% in 2024. Ensure your offers are aligned with market standards, or even slightly above for the most sought-after profiles.

• Performance bonuses
• Regular raises based on results
• Stock options for management positions

2. Attractive Benefits

Benefits are increasingly important for Bulgarian employees. Offer a comprehensive package including:

– Private health insurance (highly appreciated in Bulgaria) – Additional vacation days (beyond the legal minimum of 20 days) – Supplementary pension – Meal vouchers or subsidized cafeteria

A Adecco Bulgaria survey reveals that 78% of Bulgarian employees consider benefits as a key factor in choosing a job.

3. Work-Life Balance

Bulgarians increasingly value work-life balance. Offer:

– Flexible working hours – Remote work options (which became the norm since the pandemic) – Extended parental leave – Wellness programs (yoga, gym, etc.)

4. Professional Development Opportunities

Bulgarian employees are eager for learning and advancement opportunities. Offer:

– Continuing education programs – International mobility opportunities – A clear career path with advancement prospects – A mentoring program

According to a JobTiger study, 67% of Bulgarian professionals cite development opportunities as a determining factor in choosing an employer.

5. Positive Corporate Culture

A strong and positive corporate culture can make the difference. Highlight:

– Your corporate values and mission – Work atmosphere and team spirit – Corporate social responsibility initiatives – Diversity and inclusion within the organization

6. Recognition and Rewards

Bulgarian employees appreciate recognition of their work. Implement:

– Employee recognition programs – Service awards – Team celebrations for important successes

Successful Integration of New Employees in Bulgaria

Onboarding is a crucial step to ensure the long-term success of your recruitment in Bulgaria. A well-designed onboarding process allows new employees to quickly feel comfortable and productive in their new role. Here’s how to optimize this phase:

1. Preparation Before Arrival

Start the onboarding process even before the first day of work:

– Send a welcome email with essential information – Prepare the workstation and necessary equipment – Designate a “buddy” or mentor to accompany the new employee

A Gallup study shows that employees who benefited from good preparation before their arrival are 2.6 times more likely to be satisfied with their onboarding experience.

2. First Day and First Week

Make the first day memorable and informative:

– Organize a tour of the premises and introductions to the team – Plan a team lunch to foster social integration – Provide a detailed schedule for the first week

3. Initial Training

Implement a training program adapted to the position and Bulgarian culture:

– Present the company’s history and culture – Explain company-specific processes and tools – Organize training on skills needed for the position

According to a JobTiger survey, 82% of Bulgarian employees consider thorough initial training essential to their success in a new position.

4. Cultural Immersion

If you’re integrating foreign employees in Bulgaria, plan for cultural immersion:

– Organize Bulgarian language courses – Provide information about local customs and professional etiquette – Offer support for administrative procedures (visa, housing, etc.)

5. Regular Follow-up

Implement a tracking system for the first months:

– Organize weekly meetings with the direct manager – Plan checkpoints at 30, 60, and 90 days – Regularly solicit feedback from the new employee

6. Social Integration

Promote the new employee’s social integration:

– Organize informal team events – Encourage participation in company clubs or interest groups – Introduce the newcomer during team meetings

A Deloitte study reveals that employees who developed strong social connections at work are 7 times more likely to feel engaged in their role.

7. Continuous Adaptation

Be ready to adapt your onboarding process based on feedback:

– Solicit regular feedback on the onboarding process – Adjust the program according to the specific needs of each new employee – Stay informed about trends and best practices in onboarding in Bulgaria

Conclusion: Successful Recruitment in Bulgaria

Recruiting effectively in Bulgaria requires a strategic approach and a good understanding of the local market. By combining a strong employer brand, diversified recruitment channels, a rigorous selection process, and competitive job offers, you’ll maximize your chances of attracting and retaining the best Bulgarian talent.

Remember that recruitment is only the first step. Successful onboarding is equally crucial to ensure the long-term success of your new employees. By investing in a comprehensive onboarding process adapted to Bulgarian culture, you’ll lay the foundation for a lasting and mutually beneficial relationship with your employees.

Finally, stay informed about developments in the Bulgarian labor market and be ready to adapt your strategies accordingly. Flexibility and the ability to innovate in your recruitment practices will be major assets for success in this dynamic and competitive market.