Dalia’s better job

‘The Better Job’ is what we wake up for every day. Sustainable employability is a theme that we will be even more actively working on in 2024. For us, these two aspects are inseparable because, in both cases, the employee (or candidate) is central. And we know that (re)training and development play an important role in finding that one “better” job and in the sustainable use of our colleagues. That’s why we are happy to support our colleagues in this area, both in terms of time and financially. One person who has experienced this firsthand is Dalia Karpinska (32). She developed from a forklift driver to a recruitment coordinator and instructor in a short time. In this interview, she shares how this journey went and what her final destination is.

 

From forklift driver to recruitment coordinator. How did that happen?

“To tell this story properly, I need to go back in time. I traveled around the world for three years. Saw a lot, did a lot. It was a wonderful time in which I gained a lot of personal but also work experience. For example, I worked in Vietnam as an English teacher. Then I ended up in the Netherlands and started working as a forklift driver.”

 

But you wanted something else?

“I enjoyed working as a forklift driver, but I was ready for a new challenge. I wanted to be more in contact with people. I came to Logistic Force, and they offered me a job as a recruitment coordinator. I went from a physically demanding job to an office job. A real career switch for me! I grabbed this opportunity with both hands. Since we also mediate with labor migrants, my Polish background was quite useful.”

 

Now you’re not just a recruitment coordinator, but also an instructor. How did that come about?

“That’s right! I really enjoy my work, but I wanted to use and further develop my experience as a teacher. Logistic Force was open to this, and now I teach the forklift and reach truck training on weekends. So, I combine two jobs. It feels a bit like the best of both worlds.”

 

“The best of both worlds,” what do you mean by that?

“When I look at myself, I’m doing what I really enjoy. I work hard and a lot, but I get so much satisfaction in return. And when I look at the field, it’s obviously a golden combination. Because of my work as a recruitment coordinator, I know what’s going on in the market and what my clients are looking for. Additionally, I train students to become qualified forklift or reach truck drivers. Many of these students are still looking for a suitable job. 1 + 1 = 2. I find ‘that better job’ for them directly. Precisely because I can combine these two roles.”

 

What has Logistic Force meant to you in this process?

“Actually everything. It starts with giving someone a chance, having trust in someone, and knowing how to convey that. From day one, I have felt at home, valued, and seen here. And to think that I’ve only been with Logistic Force for 1.5 years, and already I’m getting all the opportunities to further develop myself. As an employee, I find that unique. My supervisor looks at the possibilities that are attractive for both of us. This creates a win-win situation.”

 

Do you have any goals for the future?

“Yes, definitely! I would like to further develop myself as a recruitment coordinator, and I would also like to offer more training. My wish is to continue combining these two jobs in the future. For potentially expanding the training, I will first focus on the Dutch language. I speak good Dutch, but for some, more technical training such as Code 95, I feel I need to master the language better. I am also fully supported and motivated in this by my supervisor. On my wish list are the BHV course, Code 95, and ADR course. It would be great to switch between my work as an instructor and various training in the future.”

 

Why do you think it’s important to share your story with us?

“I want to be an example for other women who come to the Netherlands as labor migrants. You often only hear the negative stories. But if you end up with the right organization, your world can change. Of course, you also have to work hard, but it pays off doubly. I’m a positive person, and I want to share that message with others.”

 

CEO Martin van Dijk about Dalia:

“Dalia is a great example of how someone can develop within our organization. She is a hard worker, and I have a lot of respect for her. She really puts her shoulders into everything. And she always stays enthusiastic and cheerful. But the beautiful thing is that Dalia is not the only example. I’m proud to say that we have many more of these champions at Logistic Force. Our people are not only the foundation of our company but also the building blocks. So, it makes sense that we facilitate their development whenever possible.”