Eva Voskuil and Danieck van Geijlswijk
''Working at HeadFirst Group helps me tremendously. I immediately recognize theory in practice, which makes studying easier.''
Eva Voskuil & Danieck van Geijlswijk | Working students
Working as a working student at HeadFirst Group
Are you a student and looking for a challenging side job that perfectly matches your studies and boosts your resume? At HeadFirst Group as a working student you get the chance to gain practical experience in a professional working environment. Eva Voskuil (19, Marketing & Communications) and Danieck van Geijlswijk (22, HR) both work at HeadFirst Group for one and a half years and tell us what it's like.
For both students it is clear: practical experience is super valuable. Danieck, who is in the final year of her HR studies, says: "Working at HeadFirst Group helps me tremendously. I recognize theory directly in practice, which makes studying easier." Eva, first-year Business Studies, adds: "My studies are broad and through this work experience I now know better which side of Marketing & Communications I like best." The flexibility in working hours makes it easier to combine work and study. Eva: "Sometimes I work two half days and one full day, and another week differently. That makes it easy for me to combine my work at HeadFirst Group with my studies." Danieck adds, "I can determine my days myself, which allows me to coordinate work, study and private life well."
The ideal mix of flexibility
HeadFirst Group offers the opportunity for working students to work hybrid. This is convenient if you have just had college, for example. Eva: "Sometimes I work at home for a few hours after a morning lecture, which saves travel time and is efficient." Still, both prefer working in the office. Danieck: "You learn the most by being physically present. At the office you also develop socially and build a bond with your colleagues faster." Eva adds: "The social contact and sociability in the office make the work extra fun."
Not a working student, but full-fledged colleague
What sets HeadFirst Group apart is the way work students are treated as full-fledged colleagues. Eva and Danieck, for example, have official job titles: Eva as Marketing & Communications Officer and Danieck as HR Assistant. What do you do on a workday in this role?
Eva: "I work on internal and external communications, from social media to newsletters and website management. That gives a lot of responsibility and ensures that I learn quickly." Danieck plays an important role within HR, supporting various operational tasks: "For example, I deal with contract renewals, salary changes, absence registration and the Onboarding for new employees. "
''I really like that I can arrange my hours flexibly - that way it's always easy to combine with school.''
Lots of learning, lots of variety
Both Eva and Danieck work closely with different departments within HeadFirst Group. Eva: "Our Marketing and Communications team works a lot with HR, Facility & Events and team Engineering, especially for managing the website and internal communications. We also support Public Affairs in disseminating updates on legislation and regulations."
Danieck works with almost all teams within the organization: "HR deals with everyone. For example, I have a lot of contact with Marketing & Communications and with Corporate Recruitment for offers to possible new starters. This makes the work very dynamic." These collaborations provide broad development, according to both ladies. In addition, their work experience at HeadFirst Group gives them a new perspective on their field. Eva: "At school I mainly learn about marketing models, but here I notice how creativity and strategy come together in practice. That is a valuable addition to my studies." Danieck: "I learned how HR policy really works. What sometimes remains abstract in college, I can directly apply here."
"I thought I would mainly put school knowledge into practice, but through this work I actually understand my studies better - and that's a nice bonus.
projects to be proud of
Both students have already completed impactful projects. Eva: "I spent months working on the launch of the new Striive website and I'm getting to work on revamping HeadFirst Group's social media channels." Danieck: "I have a role in the onboarding of new employees and it's nice to see that colleagues appreciate it." Onboarding is the process in which new employees are introduced to the organization. This begins on the first day of work and continues for five weeks until they are fully settled in.
A work atmosphere where you can be yourself
What makes HeadFirst Group such a great place to work? Eva and Danieck quickly agree: the open and warm working atmosphere. Danieck: "You can be 100% yourself here. Everyone is accepted as they are." Eva adds, "It's a place where you are challenged to grow, but where you also really feel at home."
Eva also emphasizes how important her supervisor Natasja Spooren-Wassenaar (Manager of Marketing & Communications) is to her: "Natasja gave me a lot of trust and space to develop myself from the beginning. Her guidance ensured that I quickly felt at home within the team and that I could really contribute something."
Finally, tips for prospective work-study students.
For students looking for a side job alongside their studies, they have a clear message: just do it! Danieck: "My studies are easier thanks to this place. You have your evenings and weekends free, it's well paid and you get a warm team in return." Eva also emphasizes the benefits for your career: "Many students get stuck after their studies because they have no experience. This is the perfect way to get a head start already and build your network."
Will you become Eva and Danieck's new colleague?
Wouter Schils
''The best thing about my job is the autonomy I experience - the freedom to make my own choices and the responsibility to really make an impact.''
Wouter Schils | Online Marketer
From recruiter to Online Marketer
Originally from Maastricht, but now living in Amsterdam, 33-year-old Wouter began his career as a recruiter after studying Labor and Organizational Psychology. Soon his interest in digital marketing grew, upon which he decided to further specialize in this field through an external education and a traineeship. After various roles as Campaign Marketer, CRO specialist and Brand Marketer, he made the move to HeadFirst Group. "I regularly saw HeadFirst Group passing by and already knew a few people within the organization. It quickly became clear to me that this is a professional group of people and a great organization within the HR & Recruitment sector. When I saw that there was a vacancy open for Online Marketer, the choice was quickly made."
The challenge and autonomy in his role
As an Online Marketer, Wouter focuses on developing and optimizing digital marketing campaigns with a focus on measurable results. He strategically deploys channels such as SEO and social advertising to maximize online visibility, growth and conversions for clients, professionals, partners and potential colleagues. "The best thing about my job is the autonomy I experience. I get the space to make choices and develop strategies independently. This has helped me mature professionally. Moreover, I can identify the needs of stakeholders within the organization and respond proactively. The freedom and trust I get in this makes my work enormously valuable." Wouter continues: "He also finds it important to support colleagues within the Marketing & Communications team and share his knowledge. I notice that colleagues seek me out with questions about how to measure the effectiveness of their own projects using data."
Projects to be proud of
Among other things, Wouter has an important role in Employer Branding campaigns. "We work continuously to make HeadFirst Group more visible as an employer and to position it more attractively. Through data analysis and optimizations, we can make increasingly effective choices, bringing more professionals into contact with our organization and the opportunities we offer. This leads directly to more interaction."
Wouter's development within HeadFirst Group shows how many opportunities the company offers. "I started here with a focus on execution, but now I work more and more on a strategic level on projects and processes.
"Within our team, we are always there for each other and help each other out the moment someone gets stuck. This cooperation not only makes the work more fun, but also ensures that we continue to grow as a team."
The top sports mentality as a driving force within HeadFirst Group
The top sports mentality within HeadFirst Group is all about continuous improvement, collaboration and getting the best out of yourself and the team. 'Together' and 'better every day' are important values within the organization. As in top sports, this is about a winning mentality, in which innovation and knowledge sharing are central.
Wouter recognizes this mentality in practice. "Colleagues want to get the best out of themselves. However, this does not mean that you always have to work at full speed; instead, there is room to set your own pace and approach." Within Team HeadFirst Group, this mindset is actively encouraged by learning together, challenging each other and continuously looking for improvements, both individually and collectively.
Why work at HeadFirst Group?
Wouter encourages everyone to come and experience the atmosphere at HeadFirst Group for themselves. "You get the space here to take initiatives and suggest improvements. You are really listened to and you have the freedom to shape your own work."
And as icing on the cake? "For the Limburgers among us: you get an extra day off that you can use during Carnival, for example, a nice bonus! Within our working method we use the D&I day: an extra day off that you can take to celebrate a holiday that is not standardly recognized as an official day off in the Netherlands. This allows you to celebrate what is important to you.
Do you want to be part of an organization where autonomy, growth and collaboration are key? Check out our vacancies and discover what HeadFirst Group can do for you!
Will you become Wouter's new colleague?
Christine Koekkoek
"I didn't completely let go of my medical background - I wanted to do something with and for people, but in the technical corner. That comes together at HeadFirst Group: Tech & People connected."
Christine Koekkoek | Product Manager
Christine Koekkoek begon haar loopbaan in de medische wereld, maar ontdekte al snel dat haar hart ligt bij creativiteit, technologie en het oplossen van complexe vraagstukken. Via verschillende startups rolde ze het productmanagement in, waar voor haar alles samenkomt: bouwen, samenwerken en continu verbeteren.
At HeadFirst Group, Christine started as a Business Analyst and in no time advanced to Product Manager. Now she leads the team that is responsible for Enrolment & Retention within Striive - the platform for professionals, suppliers and clients. "We develop functionalities that really help people - from registration to long-term use - and do so in close cooperation with our users. Feedback is our fuel."
From feedback to innovation
One of her first projects? Improving the search experience for freelancers. "Users reported that the assignment page was not intuitive enough. We listened, designed, tested and rolled out. The result: a faster and more enjoyable assignment search," Christine says. That customer-centric approach is deep in HeadFirst Group's DNA. "We continuously analyze feedback and translate it into concrete product improvements. This is how we build a platform that is ever more attuned to the real world." She doesn't do this alone. "I work with a fixed product team: a designer, software engineers and a tester. At the beginning of the week, we set a goal, and every morning we review what is needed to meet that goal. We work pragmatically and agile, continuously delivering value in small steps, and always improving based on what we learn."
International growth with impact
Christine works with her team on projects that make an impact across borders. For Impellam Group - the international company with which HeadFirst Group forms HeadFirst Global - they are developing, among other things, a self-service module for supplier onboarding. "With this we save time, increase quality and ensure that suppliers can start faster," Christine explains. But it's not just about efficiency. "We are also looking at new ways to attract talent, both locally and internationally. This is essential for our ambition to become the largest flex talent pool in Europe and an attractive partner for international clients. That's where things get really interesting." And there's more in the pipeline. "We are preparing Striive for international rollout. Think about integrating systems, data structures and processes that work not only in the Benelux, but also in the UK, US and Australia. Each choice we substantiate with data, prototypes and validations - this is how we build sustainable, scalable solutions."
Growing as a professional and a person
International cooperation brings not only technical challenges, but also personal growth. "I work with people from all kinds of countries, each with their own way of working and culture. That requires flexibility and good communication. It is challenging, but also incredibly educational - especially in the area of change management and strategic international cooperation."
You + HeadFirst Group = building the future
For Christine, it was important to work at an organization that fit her values. "I didn't completely let go of my medical background - I wanted to do something with and for people, but in the technical corner. At HeadFirst Group that comes together: Tech & People connected." Her message to future colleagues? "At HeadFirst Group you get the freedom and responsibility to really build something. If you are curious, show initiative and enjoy working at the intersection of technology and people, you will feel right at home here. You don't have to be able to do everything already - if you want to grow, you'll get all the room you need."
Will you become Christine's new colleague?
Annemieke Adrichem
''After a week, I felt like I had been working here much longer.''
Sometimes a new opportunity presents itself from an unexpected angle. That happened to Annemieke Adrichem (57), who heard about a vacancy for receptionist at HeadFirst Group through her daughter - a working student in the HR department. At first she hesitated. "I had never worked in an office environment before and thought I was not handy enough with computers," Annemieke explains. "In addition, I wondered if I should take on such a big change at 57." Nevertheless, after a positive job interview, she decided to take on the challenge. She has now been working at HeadFirst Group for more than three months and feels right at home.
A versatile background and a big step
Annemieke has a diverse work background, from owning her own flower store to 26 years in a catering butcher shop and working as a family helper. Still, she wondered if she wanted to do this for the next 10 years. "A career switch at 57 seemed exciting, but after my conversation with Klaske (Manager Executive Office) I realized that this was an opportunity to challenge myself."
The versatile role of receptionist within HeadFirst Group
As a receptionist at HeadFirst Group, Annemieke has a versatile and dynamic position. She receives guests, manages registrations and agendas, coordinates lunches, supervises technicians and takes care of the mail. She also arranges the issue of pool cars and supports colleagues where necessary. "People come to the front desk for everything from a band-aid or a pen to help with parking. What I like about my job is the social side; I like helping people and creating a positive atmosphere."
Annemieke is part of team Facility & Events and experiences the cooperation as very pleasant. "From day one I felt welcome. Everyone is friendly and approachable, and we work well together. It's a social team where colleagues are there for each other. After a week it felt like I had been working here much longer."
A valuable onboarding process
A new job also means a new system, a new way of working and new colleagues. To make this go smoothly, HeadFirst Group offers an extensive onboarding process. Annemieke has experienced this as particularly valuable.
During the onboarding, Annemieke got a good picture of HeadFirst Group as an organization. "A lot of attention was paid to the company culture and core values, such as the importance that everyone can be themselves. I really notice that in practice," she says. "In addition, I found the trainings, such as the one on safety and the Yellow Belt training, very valuable. Especially the thinking in solutions and improvements I take into my work."
In addition to the content of the onboarding, the program also helped her make social contacts quickly. "I was in a fun group right away, which made me feel comfortable quickly and get to know colleagues from day one.'"
A warm organization
What Annemieke appreciates most about HeadFirst Group is the open and social work environment. "Everyone is friendly and approachable. It really feels like a warm bath." For anyone considering applying for a job at HeadFirst Group, Annemieke has a clear message: "Just do it! I took the step and never regretted it for a moment."
Also excited to get started at HeadFirst Group? Click here for the vacancies!
Marian van Duijn and Hein de Rooi
"Because we are so closely involved in various processes within the company, we really feel the impact of our work."
At the Servicedesk of HeadFirst Group, people work every day with great pleasure and dedication to support our clients as well as possible. But what makes working at the Servicedesk so special? Hein de Rooi, team leader of the Servicedesk, and Marian van Duijn, an experienced team member who has been working at HeadFirst Group for over 21 years, tell you more.
The hub of the organization
The Servicedesk is more than just a department; it is the hub of our organization. As the first point of contact for clients and colleagues, the Servicedesk plays a crucial role in the functioning of HeadFirst Group. Hein says: "Our team has a very central role in the organization. Every day questions come in about almost everything that happens at Headfirst, we take care of quick follow-up of these questions and problems. This makes our work not only essential, but also very dynamic."
Marian adds: "Because we are so closely involved in various processes within the company, we really feel the impact of our work. We get a lot of what is going on and are often the first to notice when something changes. That gives our work an extra dimension and ensures that we always stay sharp and involved."
A team with a mission
Hein, who has led the team since December 2020, says, "My role is mainly about facilitating the team so that they can do their job as well as possible. It's about making sure the working conditions are optimal, so that everyone can fully focus on the customers." Marian adds: "The most important thing is that we are well matched as a team. We often work with a small team, and then it's important that you can rely on each other. That makes our work dynamic and challenging, but also a lot of fun."
A dynamic work environment
Marian talks about her long career at HeadFirst Group and how the organization has changed over the years, "When I started, we were a much smaller organization. Since then we have grown considerably and that brings new challenges. But that is precisely what makes it so interesting. There is always something new to learn and discover." Hein emphasizes the variety in the work: "The nice thing about the Service Desk is that you have to deal with all kinds of different questions. No day is the same, and you constantly have to switch gears and think creatively to find solutions."
A close-knit team
Working at the Service Desk requires good cooperation and communication within the team. Hein explains: "We have a close-knit team where everyone gets the space to voice their opinions. We appreciate it when team members come up with new ideas and actively think about how we can do things better. That keeps us on our toes and ensures that we continue to grow as a team."
Challenges and highlights
Of course, there are challenges, too. "Sometimes it's busy, and then you really have to put your shoulders to the wheel as a team," says Marian. "But that also gives a lot of satisfaction. When we look back at the end of a busy day and see that together we were able to help so many customers well, it really feels like a victory."
Hein adds, "The best thing about this work is that you can really make a difference. Whether it's a customer helping you with a simple question or someone who is really frustrated and not getting anywhere, it gives a good feeling when you can help someone further and that person hangs up the phone satisfied."
Why work at HeadFirst Group's Servicedesk?
When asked what makes working at HeadFirst Group's Service Desk so much fun, Marian replied, "The contact with people and the variation in the work make every day different. In addition, the atmosphere within our team is just really good. We have fun together, but also work hard to achieve our goals."
Hein concludes, "If you like a dynamic work environment where no day is the same, and you enjoy helping people, HeadFirst Group's Service Desk is the perfect place for you."
Also excited to get started at HeadFirst Group? Click here for the vacancies!
Karin Brizar
Personal approach in serving clients
With an impressive track record of 17 years, Karin Brizar, the Head of Operations, has earned her spurs at HeadFirst Group. A long time ago Karin started at FastFlex, but after several acquisitions she still feels like a fish in the water at HeadFirst Group after all these years.
The essence of her role
In simple terms, as Karin herself would put it, my department is "The hub of the organization." Her responsibilities include contract management and payroll, but her role extends beyond that. She ensures that HeadFirst Group's product of seamless external hiring for clients is taken care of to perfection.
Her mission is to ensure that all parties are satisfied, by providing clients and freelancers with the right information and acting as a reliable knowledge partner. The most enjoyable aspect of her job? The constant contact with a diverse group of people.
The secret of her team
Karin's team is her pride and joy. With nearly 30 full-timers and a nice mix of men and women. What makes it distinctive, according to Karin, is not only the diversity in age, but also the variation in personalities. The stability of the team is remarkable; the relationships between them have grown stronger and stronger.
Proud of progress
The past five years at HeadFirst Group have of course seen remarkable growth. Karin herself is very proud to be part of that development. "We have grown very large in recent years, growing with us and embracing the change I find that very beautiful. I am proud that I have been able to adapt and develop myself to go along with this change," Karin said.
These developments, despite the many years, of course, never make her job boring. Karin sees the constant change as a nice challenge on her personal development. She also praises and emphasizes the importance of adaptability within the team, especially given the company's rapidly changing environment.
With better and faster systems on the horizon, Karin is determined to maintain a personal approach in serving clients. She sees plenty of opportunities to take HeadFirst Group to new heights, with a focus on continuous improvement and client focus. For example, she states, "We have recently received better and better appreciation from our clients. We have worked hard on this for years and it is now paying off. I am proud that we have all managed to achieve this."
Job satisfaction at HeadFirst Group
What makes HeadFirst Group a great place to work? Karin describes it as a warm bath, where employees are embraced and encouraged to be the best they can be. The informal atmosphere, excellent facilities and emphasis on fun make it a unique workplace. At HeadFirst Group, it's not just about the work, but also about celebrating successes and continuing to invest in personal growth. "All this may sound a bit cliché, but it really does feel that way. A warm bath, where you are encouraged to get the most out of yourself."
Also excited to get started at HeadFirst Group? Click here for the vacancies!
Ton Sluiter
How HeadFirst Group is moving toward a data-driven future
From valuable insights to predictive analytics and serendipity
In this interview, colleague Ton Sluiter - Manager Data at HeadFirst Group since early 2023 - talks about his role, the work of the data team and his view of the future. And of course why he enjoys doing this for an organization like HeadFirst Group.
Data provides valuable insights
What does the work of a data team actually entail? "Our main task is to collect all the data that comes in and convert it into valuable insights," Ton begins. "This helps to optimize operations, both internally and externally. Whether generating reports for our relations or providing internal information to management, our goal is to improve the business."
Predictive analytics for the future
Ton reflects on the different stages in the maturity of a data-driven organization. Although he concludes that HeadFirst Group is already quite advanced, there are still steps to take. "While a company usually starts with collecting data and creating dashboards, we are now several steps further. We are currently in the data analytics phase, working toward predictive analytics and models that help with future business decision-making. We aim to generate more and more insights and become truly data-driven in all our processes."
Refining and serendipity
When asked what makes his work so fascinating, Ton responds enthusiastically. "Working with data is actually similar to refining: raw data comes in, is processed and eventually results in valuable insights. Along the way, we ourselves also learn every time. We not only collect data for its original purpose, but along the way we also discover unexpected applications. We call this serendipity. Data that was not intended for a specific purpose turns out to be valuable after all. It gives me energy when we can take customers or ourselves another step forward with this!"
Learning organization
Ton notes that HeadFirst Group is a learning organization. "There is a lot of room for individual development and innovation. We are increasingly developing into a data-driven organization, not only on the operational side, but for example in marketing, where we measure the effect of campaigns. We have grown quickly, but also have the ability to learn and implement new things quickly. I appreciate that drive enormously."
Finally, Ton reflects on the opportunities for advancement within the organization. "We have several examples of colleagues transferring to another position that at first glance does not seem the most obvious choice: from Recruitment to Data, from Contract Management to Account Management and from Facility to Legal. That really typifies and encourages this organization. Colleagues get - and seize - the opportunity to grow. That's great!"
Also excited to get started at HeadFirst Group? Click here for the vacancies!
Anja Antoni
A behind-the-scenes look at the multifaceted role of Office Assistant
Anja Antoni: a jack-of-all-trades employed by HeadFirst Group
Service was in Anja Antoni (60) from an early age. Even as a child she was energized by helping people around her and making them happy. Eventually she made it her job. Since two years Anja works as Office Assistant at HeadFirst Group. In this interview you can read her experiences and perspectives as receptionist, office manager, relationship manager, organizer and coordinator all in one.
Every day is different
Because, as it turns out, it is not so easy to describe her duties succinctly. "My daily tasks include an incredibly wide range of activities! Ranging from receiving visitors and giving tours to new colleagues, assisting at events, maintaining contact with surrounding companies and suppliers such as cleaning and catering, arranging hotel stays, managing goodies, making sure Christmas gifts are distributed and so on. Every day is different, and that's what makes the job so fascinating!"
Collaboration in the team and across locations
Anja sees several opportunities for the (near) future: "Currently I work with a great team, consisting of myself, our manager, an external colleague and two working students. That sounds like a lot, but I am convinced that despite the current effectiveness, we can achieve even more in fulfilling our various responsibilities."
Anja continues: "Where I also see growth opportunities is in the area of cooperation between our various locations. We are growing fast as a company and you notice that in the number of colleagues in the office. But because we have even more locations, working is not limited to one location. I think we can discuss with all office managers how we can collaborate even more between locations. For example, optimizing meeting rooms and sharing resources could be a step in the right direction."
Fantastic facilities at HeadFirst Group
Naturally, we are curious about what makes working at HeadFirst Group so special for Anja. "Working here means much more than just performing tasks. It's great to be involved in the growth of the company and to actively contribute to events and initiatives. It's nice how much space and freedom there is for everyone to think along. Ideas and initiatives are appreciated." Anja also calls the facilities in the building fantastic, from the gym to the theater with events. "But above all: the people are very approachable. There is an atmosphere of equality."
Space and freedom to contribute ideas
Full of pride, Anja explains the nice feeling she gets when she walks through the Hoofddorp office and looks at the facilities and the people who work there. "Every day is a new opportunity to make someone happy, whether it's a colleague stopping by with a question or arranging things for a visitor. It is this diversity that makes my job so fascinating."
Also interested in a job at HeadFirst Group? Click here for all vacancies.
Julie Brakenhoff
Making an impact as a Consultant Sourcing in a tight labor market
Julie Brakenhoff is MSP Consultant Sourcing at Staffing MS (part of HR-tech service provider HeadFirst Group). "From the moment I started here in April, I felt welcome," says Julie Brakenhoff. Previously, she worked in the insurance sector at Alicia, a partner of HeadFirst Group, and that is what eventually brought her here. The experience she has in sales, recruitment and HR matched perfectly with her current role. We asked how she experienced the first few months.
Julie can be found at the Staffing MS office in Hoofddorp every day. "Since I've only been employed for just two months, I've mainly been busy onboarding," she explains. "Now, after my onboarding, I am starting to get a good idea of the work. This is a new experience for me, as I previously worked mainly at startups. I notice, for example, that here the onboarding period is better organized. On the first day, we discussed the schedule and which training sessions I would attend and when," she says. "When you start here, you get the opportunity to take the Lean Yellow Belt training. I feel really well supported here."
What is your background?
Although her previous work was similar in some areas, she has no Consultancy experience. "In my previous work, I dealt with acquisition of new partners, who then sell insurance on their platforms, such as HeadFirst, for example. I also have some recruitment and HR experience, so I know how to put out certain requests."
What does an MSP Consultant Sourcing do?
One aspect of her job that Julie really enjoys is the contact with customers. "I regularly go over requests with clients. You get to know the customer better and better, and it's easy to ask each other questions or just send an app. Currently I am in the process of taking over a client and soon another one will be added," she explains. "I have regular meetings with managers about new assignments, I also assess applicants and send their information to the client. Furthermore, I do administrative tasks, such as processing changes in assignments, for example renewals or rate increases. If there are questions about renewals or new assignments, I give advice in that regard. I also regularly participate in consultations with various teams to improve the service where necessary."
What advancement opportunities do you see for yourself?
Asked about her future prospects within the company, Julie explains that she was initially looking for a junior scrum master position. "During the conversation with the recruiter, I indicated that I wanted to work at a tech company that has its own platform, like HeadFirst Group's Select," Julie explains. "That way I can develop myself further, because I find that incredibly interesting. During the job interview I mentioned that there are many aspects I like, and that factored into my choice. So I could grow into account management, business consultancy, or maybe a position within HeadFirst Group." Julie emphasizes that growth doesn't have to be only vertical. "Horizontal growth I also find interesting. I notice that there is definitely room for personal development here."
How is the cooperation within your team?
"Here I feel supported," she explains. "Of course I'm being inducted and I know what's expected of me, but it's also a combination of learning new things. And if a colleague is busy, we definitely jump in and support each other. At the moment I am being trained by Thomas and I can always approach him with questions. The cooperation within the consultant team is going really well, and I really like that."
What makes your work so enjoyable and distinctive?
Julie emphasizes the impact she can make in this tight job market, "It's nice to see that my efforts are ultimately going to help fill vacancies quickly." She describes the culture within Staffing MS as informal, professional and fun. "Of course we have parties and fun team activities that everyone can participate in, and regular events are organized. There is also a celebration every month where cake is treated from HeadFirst Group. Even though my label is in Rotterdam, a cake is also delivered in Rotterdam every month!"
Belinda Oudhoff
Going the extra mile and continuing to develop yourself
Belinda Oudhoff (52) has been working as an MSP Consultant Contracting at Staffing MS, (part of HR-tech service provider HeadFirst Group) for almost two years now. With her sales background and experience in various back office positions, she joined Staffing MS. "A whole new world opened up for me here. We take over the total hiring process of temporary staff for our clients." Belinda likes to tell us about how she always goes the extra mile so she can continue to develop herself.
What does an MSP Consultant Contracting actually do?
"As a Consultant Contracting, you are mainly concerned with forming and updating files for the assignments," Belinda says. "We take over the entire hiring process from our clients: we put the requests out in the market towards the suppliers and the professionals on our own platform. When there is an assignment, we set up the file. My job is to make sure the file is complete and that it stays complete. We also take care of invoicing, and for this, all files must also be in order on time according to legal requirements. We also provide first-line support, where we receive all kinds of questions from suppliers or self-employed persons without staff (ZZP'ers) or questions intended for other departments about payments, for example. I usually try to help the caller directly myself and then if I can't figure it out, I make a callback request. Everyone plays an important role in the process this way: Sourcing makes contact with the client to get the request and order in order, and Contracting makes sure the files get/stay in order and answers the first-line questions. There is no hierarchical difference because we all work together to get the job done, and that also makes it a lot of fun to work here."
How is the cooperation within your team?
"I really like the work atmosphere. There are six of us in the department and we work hard, but there is always room for a laugh. As contract manager, I have a lot of contact with Sourcing to make sure the job is complete. You have the opportunity to work both in the office and hybrid. Since I work part-time, I have one day off and one work-at-home day."
What makes your work so enjoyable?
"You can make the work as interesting as you want of course. For me, it's important that when that space is available, for variety you also occasionally pick up something you don't normally do, helping another department or figuring something out, for example. You develop yourself in multiple areas this way. We also have planning meetings, where you can indicate where you want to go, which is really nice."
Would you recommend this work to others?
"In fact, I recommended my cousin, who is also working here. Good to know is that you get all the space here to get to know the systems well first. You are also just allowed to make mistakes and there is room to be yourself."
Has your position changed in the time you've worked here?
"In my case yes, but it does depend on how you do your job. You can do what you are asked, but you can also go the extra mile and keep developing yourself. For example, checking with a consultant why something has not yet been picked up or taking over each other's tasks when we are absent. In any case, that makes my work very fun and challenging!"