A good interaction is just as important as good service.

I founded De Verzuimmakelaar at the time because I was convinced, and still am, that absence management can be done differently. And that it should be done differently. No absence case is the same, so a personal approach is a must. However, during conversations with prospects, I notice time and again that it’s not just about the services provided. A good interaction with the client is at least as important to bring about behavioral change.

By Mirelle Klijs

Together, or not at all
Of course, the starting point is good service, that goes without saying. But we can never achieve optimal results if there is no interaction with the client. That’s why we only want to work with organizations that share our vision. We do it together with the client, or we don’t do it at all.

The same approach
When we start a process, we ensure good coordination with the manager, so that we treat the employee in the same way. We always stay closely involved. It is important that the manager acts in the same way. We have the right conversation, and so does the manager. This mechanism pays off, making it more enjoyable for the manager as well.

Not just any conversation
To receive clear, comprehensive advice from the occupational physician, having the right conversation is essential. The conversation with the employee and the questionnaire are focused on employability. We use triage to ask questions, so we assess the severity and urgency of the request for help. Always in such a way that it makes logical sense for the physician. This brings structure. The involvement of our occupational health support staff (POB), who take over certain tasks, also contributes to a smooth process. Thanks to this good cooperation with the occupational physician, we generate concrete advice. This benefits the quality of the process.

More ownership
Because constructive conversations are held and the focus is on what is possible, the employee shows more ownership within a short time. And that is what you need to reduce absenteeism. We can only achieve this if there is a certain connection with the client, a good interaction. Distance plays no role in this; we have clients all over the country. Because of our unique approach, we are always close to our clients.

One point of contact
Together you can build further; we aim for long-term client relationships. That’s why our clients have one case manager who sets the course and is always available to them. This is often an important reason why organizations want to switch to us. Absence management requires a personal approach, both from our side and from the client. That is and remains my conviction.

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