Connections

I recently had to drive to the very southernmost tip of the Netherlands to rectify a mistake. Yes, even I make mistakes sometimes – I’m only human after all! So I got into the car together with the author of the article in question and headed south. We had plenty of time to chat on the journey, which is a great way to hear and learn lots of new things. When we arrived with the customer, I not only offered my personal apologies but also suggested a fitting solution to the problem. And as a gesture of goodwill, I took along a gift that coordinated perfectly with the company’s interior design. In turn, the customer apologised for flying off the handle. It all turned out to be a storm in a teacup which had developed into a hurricane due to personal circumstances. We parted on friendly terms. Our discussions had been considerably less pleasant by phone, but once you see each other face to face the problem often seems to shrink.

On our way home, we stopped off at Hulst to see one of the editor’s friends, certified butcher Jack Keulen. What a fantastic business, and so busy! Nevertheless, Jack took time out to talk to us and definitely had plenty to say. 

Surprisingly enough, it turned out that he’s also the owner of the meat company, Keulen Vleeswaren. I’d never connected those dots before. Jack then took us on a spontaneous tour of the premises and, ever the great host, he immediately invited us to bring OSV members along to visit him – so we’ll be doing just that in September! A great chance to see this company with your own eyes.

Once again, this underlines how important it is to get out and about. Keep making time to ‘play outside’ and meet new people. That’s how you create new opportunities. It’s the OSV Summer Barbecue tomorrow: seize your chance!

Saskia Stender