How do you think Poles make themselves stand out in Holland?
They are hard-working, creative, and, above all, they are driven to become successful in this country of tulips. Young Poles, because it’s them I’m talking about, who have arrived in Holland quite recently invest their time and money in such a way as to improve their prospective position on the job market. I personally know young and ambitious people (my own employers included) who, after a hard day’s work, attend intensive Dutch courses. This is a testament to their perseverance and eagerness. The Dutch hold this kind of attitude in high esteem.
What was your reaction to having been awarded the title of The Pole of the Year 2012?
It’s an honour and a privilege. Still, in our company, we regard the award as a recognition for the entire team of people, who are both Polish and Dutch, and who constitute FIRE STOP Holland. The company couldn’t have developed so fast without their involvement, and I wouldn’t have won the Polonus award of the Year 2012.
How would you encourage Poles to participate in the similar competitions organised for and among Polish people all over the world?
It’s definitely good publicity for the company. However, what I consider more meaningful is that owing to such enterprises, the image of Poland becomes more agreeable. This is particularly important here and now, in Holland, where, in the light of the vision of approaching crisis, and the ever increasing unemployment, the country’s authorities are reluctant to welcome the newcomers who are treated as a potential threat. It’s crucial to say loud and clear that companies operating in Holland contribute to the country’s growth, they pay taxes there, and the employees are not only Polish but also Dutch.
What do you think will change in your life, now that you’ve won?
Not much. I’ll continue doing my thing, only now I know that my work is positively evaluated. I would be glad to see this award prompt Poles to set up their own business in Holland, even within those market sectors supposedly reserved for native Dutchmen. Those restrictions are imposed mainly because of bureaucratic barriers. Overcoming them is only a matter of time and your own tenacity. The first step is always the hardest to make. To my mind, times of crisis are perfect for starting a business. The competition is afraid of any immediate actions, and the employment rates are being reduced, and you’ve got nothing to lose.
What are your plans regarding your professional and private life?
Professionally, I obviously intend to work on FIRE STOP Holland’s development. I’d like to maintain the growth of sales and employment rates. In view of the current economic situation on the construction market, this is going to be a real challenge in the forthcoming year. And privately? I’m celebrating my “typical” Dutch anniversary in June next year – 12.5 years. It may seem rather abstract to most Poles, but for the Dutch it’s a deadly serious issue – it’s half of a quarter of a century. I need to think of something so that my wife and the Dutch part of the family are not disappointed. Luckily, I still have 6 months to do that, ha, ha.
Is there anything in particular you’d like to share with the readers of our website?
Until recently there hasn’t been any website which could provide information about Poland, and Poles living abroad, in a quite new, clear and straightforward way. It’s great that someone’s come up with such an idea and is very keen to carry out the project.
What are the main challenges FIRE STOP is faced with as an enterprise operating on a fairly narrow market of installation companies?
It’s very simple. You should try to be one step ahead of your competition. You need to keep up with technological novelties, but at the same time you need to observe the costs so that your offer remains attractive for the clients. All that in tandem with our Polish knack for managing problems which for an average Dutch are “unmanageable” , and certainly not that fast, creates golden opportunities for us, Poles, in Holland. There is no other option, we will make it!
What are your plans for the upcoming holidays?
It’s going to be a traditional Polish celebration. We’re going away to the mountains, to Ustronie/k Wisły to be exact. This an amazing spot for those who need a break to relax, as well as for those who want to stay active during their time off. You can go for go skiing, or for a walk, or you can ride a bicycle. I try to go there at least once a year. My Dutch coworker has been there a few times already, and he keeps coming back! I do recommend visiting www.ustronie.pl.
The Pole of the Year in the Netherlands is organised by Polonus Foundation.