Daphne (26) was raised in Asten, and she recently bought a parcel of land there to build a house with her partner Dévi. Alongside her work for Gielissen, and as a creative busy bee with a commercial background, she helps her father with his gallery, designing his website and the like. ‘”Work hard, play hard” is my motto. I love working hard, but also welcome taking a break with friends and family, playing hockey, or travelling to distant places,’ relates Daphne.
Daphne has worked for Gielissen for two years. What immediately appealed to her, in addition to the warm and familiar atmosphere, was everyone’s drive and commitment. ‘The onboarding was really terrific. I was given time to chat to everyone and to get to know the organization. A soft landing like this makes things so much easier, and familiarizing yourself with how everything works is a breeze,’ says Daphne.
After completing her studies in commercial economics, she was given the opportunity to get to know various departments at Gielissen through a traineeship program. 'As each department has its own specialty, this was the perfect way for me to get to know the company. I started at Sales Support, where I prepared offers and shadowed account managers during customer visits. I also got to know the General Contracting department.’
‘As General Contractor, Gielissen takes care of the entire practical organization of an exhibition,' says Daphne. 'For example, we open a webshop where exhibitors can order everything for their stand, such as walls, graphic prints, presentation display cases, TV screens or extra power points. We also build the special areas, such as relaxation lounges or stages. We are an extension of the exhibition organization, allowing them to focus on the content.’
As Event & Exhibition Coordinator, Daphne focuses on the organization of exhibitions and events. She works closely with the exhibition organizer, participating clients, suppliers, and her internal project team. ‘My work is so much fun because it is so varied, and I am entrusted to get involved in finding creative solutions. No two days are the same and that keeps it exciting,’ she says. ‘The challenges make the work fun too, because it is such a dynamic sector. Thinking positively and ensuring the best solution.’
Daphne faced many challenges during an especially busy period, with the World Hydrogen Summit (WHS), Breakbulk and PLMA following each other in rapid succession. The WHS presented some unique issues, because Daphne and her team had to set up this exhibition from scratch. 'It was an opportunity to show what I can do and what we can achieve as a team. We got such a huge buzz when everything fell into place,’ she says enthusiastically.
At the PLMA, her focus was on customer contact, dealing with queries and requests concerning designs and practical matters on a daily basis. 'Things often got a bit hectic, but I really thrive helping everyone and making sure everything runs smoothly.’ Daphne was constantly on site at all three exhibitions, ensuring that everything ran like clockwork from the service desk. 'I will never tire of the exhilaration you feel seeing a newly completed stand or entire exhibition hall. You really see projects come to life.’
When Daphne first joined General Contracting, she had serious doubts about her English. Gielissen gave her the opportunity to develop herself in this area with a business English course, which gave her the confidence to hold conversations with international clients. ‘I was nervous at first, but now I'm chatting away happily,’ Daphne says with a smile. 'My English is still not perfect, but I've learned that sometimes you just have to do it instead of walking away. Even less-than-perfect English can go a long way, and I learn new things all the time!’
Daphne sees her manager as a great example. 'I learn a lot from José. She is very professional and knows exactly how to resolve issues. She always goes that extra mile to deliver on the client's request and thinks strategically about every decision she takes. This mentorship started during my traineeship and has helped me grow quickly within the company. José supported me to find my way within Gielissen and showed me how essential a structured and businesslike approach is to maintaining success. It is my goal to one day achieve the same business professionalism that she delivers,’ says an inspired Daphne.
What Daphne appreciates most about working at Gielissen is the collaborative team spirit, and the opportunities she gets for self-development. 'I have learned the importance of good interaction with your colleagues and suppliers, this allows you to achieve the best possible results. You can't do anything alone, you have to do it together. At Gielissen, I have convivial colleagues who really aim for the best result together,’ she says. 'In addition, I truly appreciate the opportunities the company provides me with for developing myself in areas I really enjoy. Opportunities like this are uncommon, and it's a nice feeling that Gielissen has such confidence in me.'
Inspired by Daphne’s story? Check out our careers page and start your very own Gielissen success story today.
