From job seeker to mountain worker, thanks to a UWV speed date

From reflection to perspective

A few months ago I was briefly in unemployment benefits. To me, that felt like a kind of break, but also like an opportunity to stand still and ask myself, what do I actually want?

I soon discovered that there are many options, perhaps too many. And that it is quite difficult to find your way around that alone. That's why I knocked on BergWerk's door in Harderwijk. Henriëtte gave me a number of practical and personal tips. And not much later, a speed date was on the agenda at the UWV in Harderwijk.

During that speed date I met Suzanne van BergWerk, who is now my direct colleague. Our conversation flew by and immediately felt familiar. She invited me to really go into depth together, which led to a follow-up conversation and then a walk-in day. Soon I was no longer a candidate, but part of the team.

I now enjoy working as an employment & networking specialist at BergWerk. And what makes it extra special: I was recently on such a speed date myself, but as an employment mediator. I was allowed to help others take their next step. That felt very special.

It is an experience that will always stay with me. Because I have felt for myself how important it is to be seen and taken seriously. To be heard for a moment. Someone who thought along, didn't judge, but asked “What gives you energy?”

“Sometimes you only need one sincere conversation to get moving again”

At BergWerk we believe in that personal approach. Whether you are looking for work, don't know what you want, or just want to discuss your options. We help you move forward, with attention, realistic advice and the power of a strong regional network.