Why Hidde felt at home at Booking Experts from day one
Starting a new job always takes some getting used to. Is it the work itself that sways your decision, or the colleagues around you? For Hidde, the answer was clear early on. From day one, he noticed that the people at Booking Experts make all the difference, especially when his start didn't go quite as planned.
A smooth landing (even when things get tough)
Starting a new job is always exciting, but for Hidde, his initial period brought extra challenges due to health issues. It’s precisely during moments like these that a company culture reveals its true colors. At Booking Experts, the focus during onboarding wasn't immediately on strict processes and systems, but on the person behind the employee.
With active support from his buddy, Moniek, and later Iris, Hidde was given the time, space, and guidance he needed.
"From day one, BEX felt like a warm welcome. The focus was truly on how I was doing, rather than just on the tasks."
To keep the first few weeks accessible and fun, a special BEX bingo card packed with fun facts helped him get to know his colleagues in a relaxed way. Add the weekly Friday afternoon drinks, where you can jump right in from week one to hang out and chat and the foundation for a great work environment was laid.
The power of 'Meet the Teams'
Beyond informal chats, it’s essential to know who does what within a fast-growing company. During the 'Meet the Teams' sessions, new hires gain insight into different departments. Who do you reach out to with specific questions? How do teams collaborate?
"Because you attend these sessions with a fixed group of fellow starters, it creates an immediate sense of connection. You don't just get to know the company, you get to know it together."
The moment everything clicked: Winterfest
Everyone has that specific moment when it hits them: I belong here. For Hidde, that moment happened during the annual Winterfest.
This event is one of the occasions where the entire international team comes together. From colleagues based in the UK and France to team members from Spain and Portugal.
Not a number, but a person
Booking Experts is a fast-growing organization that continues to professionalize, yet the human touch remains unchanged. Hidde notices daily that there is immense appreciation for the work being done, both from clients and colleagues. "You see the direct impact of your work for the client, but that appreciation is equally reflected in daily perks, like a freshly boiled egg and fruit in the morning, a prepared lunch, and a fully stocked snack cabinet. There is always time for one another, too. Founder Ali and Maureen regularly drop by for a quick chat to see how you're doing."
"From intern to manager, everyone mixes together during drinks. If you open yourself up, you feel at home here so quickly."
Becoming a buddy himself
The impact of a great start inspired Hidde to become a buddy for new colleagues himself.
"Helping people is at my core. As a buddy, you ensure a soft landing. Whether it's doing introductions or simply taking someone along to lunch: you are their safe haven."
The buddy program at BEX isn't just an extra chore, either; it's a valuable investment in yourself. Over three months, you learn about various communication styles, forms of collaboration, and theories on human behavior. It feels like a meaningful, valuable training program that helps you grow both professionally and personally.
Why will you choose Booking Experts?
When Hidde originally applied to three different companies and received offers from all three, the personal connection at Booking Experts made all the difference. The open conversations, where there was genuine room for personal needs and challenges, left an immediate impression.
At Booking Experts, we believe growth starts with connection. Within an informal, safe environment where you can be yourself, we bring out the best in each other.
Curious about what your landing at Booking Experts could look like? Check out our open positions and drop by for a cup of coffee!
