Michelle van Meer has been working as an associate at Strategy& for almost a year now. After studying International Politics in Leiden and Amsterdam, she initially wanted to work at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. But she expected to be able to broaden her horizons and acquire other skills at Strategy&. "I was hoping to learn a lot here in an ambitious environment with young people."
"My expectations have been more than met. I really like the people I work with. It's hard work, but there's plenty of time for jokes and fun. Several times a week, tears of laughter roll down my cheeks. You see each other for many hours a day, so it's important that you get on well with each other.”
Unravelling a problem
“I learn so much here in a short time. Everyone here is committed to your development, and that's really a prime focus. My projects always take place in a completely different industry. That's also common for the first three or four years, then you'll specialise. You don't know anything about an industry beforehand and yet you can add value quite quickly. By looking at a problem as an outsider, it is easier to cut it into small pieces and unravel it.”
"Everything is aimed at getting the best out of yourself"
Getting the best out of yourself
“All sorts of people are working to make you feel at home quickly. Your buddy is there particularly for the initial phase to help with all practical matters. I drink coffee every month with my junior mentor and discuss my development points. I see my senior mentor once every two or three months, which is more for the big picture. You also get a lot of guidance for each project and there are many training sessions. You can't help but be involved in your development. Everything is aimed at getting the best out of yourself.”
Warm atmosphere
“The atmosphere here has positively surprised me. I was expecting a somewhat harsh culture. But I notice the warmth and kindness, it's important that you feel good. The size of the organisation is just right, you're not snowed under. There's also a lot of interest in what you do apart from your work. In my spare time I like to run or box. I have an annual museum card, I try to see a nice exhibition every weekend. I recently acquired a lease car. I immediately went to Museum Voorlinden, which is difficult to reach by public transport."
