Frans on work, passion, and retirement. An interview.

 

Not everyone leaves behind such a story when they retire. For years, Frans has been a familiar face at Solutions – someone who always showed up early, ready to lend a hand, and never afraid to speak his mind. To colleagues, suppliers, and temporary workers alike, he became more than just a coworker: he became part of the heartbeat of our company.

Now, as Frans steps into a well-deserved new chapter, we celebrate not only his hard work but also the spirit and energy he brought into every day. Retirement marks a big milestone, but Frans’ journey with us doesn’t end here – his presence, humor, and dedication will continue to be part of Solutions.

We sat down with him to look back at his time here and mark this special moment together.

---

1. How long have you worked here?
   I’ve worked here for 7 years.

 

2. Do you remember your first day?
   I don’t remember the exact day I started, but I’ve known Sezer for 20 years. I know everyone in the company – this place feels like a second home to me.

 

3. After 7 years, how do you feel about leaving? You’ll still be with us two days a week, but it’s going to be different, right?
   I like it! I’ll finally have time for so many things. I’ve been working since I was 15, so this is a big milestone in my life. When you’ve worked most of your life and something changes – it’s huge. But I’m excited.

 

4. What makes you most proud of your time here?
   20 years ago, I worked with Sezer. He was just a young boy back then, and now he’s become an entrepreneur. I’m proud to see how he and the company have grown over time.

 

5. What will you miss the most?
   Working with young people – it makes me feel young too. I enjoy visiting clients, talking to them, being out there. That’s something I’ll really miss.

 

6. What’s one thing you’ve learned, personally or professionally?
   If you’d told me 10 years ago I’d be doing this kind of job, I would’ve said “Never!” But I tried – and I discovered I really like it. It taught me that you should always try things before saying no. You never know what might become your new passion. You’ll only find out if you give it a shot.

 

7. What advice would you give to someone starting here?
   Learn to give and take. Sometimes you stay longer at work, and another day you can leave early. If someone asks for help – even after hours – help them. It’s about building long-term relationships based on trust. Help people, and one day they’ll help you. Don’t expect immediate rewards. Don’t focus only on money. Be flexible and supportive – that’s how you build trust with your team.

 

8. What are your plans for retirement?
   That’s a tough one, haha! Honestly – I have no plans. It’ll be the perfect time to relax and learn new things. After 52 years of working, it’s going to be a whole new reality. So the first thing I’ll do is learn how to relax and take it easy.

 

9. Anything else you’d like to add?
   It’s been a unique journey. I’ve known Sezer for so many years. He also started working when he was 15 or 16, driving a forklift. Back then, he worked for me. When he had the idea of starting an uitzendbureau, I supported him from the very beginning. I taught him how to do the job. And then, person by person, his business grew. One day, he asked me, “Can I bring you some people?” – I was basically his first client. That’s how it all started. And then, when I needed help, Sezer hired me. You never know when kindness will come back to you. That’s why it’s always worth giving people a chance and treating them well.