Nederlands
Van Zantvoort Administraties
When Edwin, from Van Zantvoort Administraties, started his own business, he was still working from home. At first, this was practical, but he soon reached his limits. ‘I was growing and didn't want to receive that many clients at home. I also noticed that I missed having people around me,’ he says. In addition, the line between work and private life was becoming increasingly blurred. He lost the sense of “going to work” and then actually “going home”.
Why did you want to rent a workspace?
‘Of course, you can buy or rent an office yourself, but then you're still on your own. That wouldn't solve my “problem”.’ Edwin has been renting space outside his home for 15 years now. He felt very much at home in the first building he rented space in, but eventually he ran into limitations. ‘The building wasn't well maintained, I wanted to work closer to home, and sometimes after 10 years you just need something new.’
What Edwin needed was clear: a professional place to receive clients, sufficient space – including for meetings – an accessible location closer to home, and an environment with people to brainstorm and network with. This search brought him into contact with Daniel, owner of Business Centre. Despite Edwin's strict requirements – which Edwin and Daniel sometimes joke about – they hit it off immediately. ‘I started looking at what was available in the area. When I walked into Business Centre, it immediately felt right.’
Do you have requirements for office space similar to Edwin's? Get to know Business Centre.
Why Business Centre?
What I appreciate is that there are no complications. If I want to reserve a meeting room an hour in advance, a phone call or a quick call to reception is all it takes to arrange it. If I want to work on a Saturday, Daniel will ensure that this is possible. No hassle and straightforward communication. Business Centre houses various companies under one roof, which makes for a diverse range of contacts. What's more, a chat at the coffee machine is not only enjoyable, it also leads to valuable collaborations.
Business Centre in a few words
Edwin now feels completely at home in his office space at Business Centre. ‘How would I describe my workplace in a few words? Just a nice, spacious workplace.’ Is there nothing that could be improved? Edwin laughs, ‘Perhaps a more pleasant canteen, then more people would have lunch there, which would increase the opportunity for networking.’ But this is not a requirement for him. The environment is quiet, professional and, at the same time, social when you want it to be. What's more, Edwin's clients are welcomed professionally and hospitably by the customer-friendly ladies at reception.
What does this office space offer you?
‘I work in a pleasant working environment, which means I enjoy going to work.’ And how do his customers respond? ‘To be honest? Even though I'm sitting at home in my shed. Customers don't really care where I am, as long as I deliver quality. Of course, it's nice that they are given a friendly welcome.’
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs who are unsure about renting office space?
Are you alone or with someone else? Go for it! It greatly expands your network, provides social contacts and keeps work and private life separate.
How does this working environment prepare you for the future?
‘I'm already 56,’ jokes Edwin. Although Edwin does not necessarily want to expand and is currently even refusing new clients, the possibility is there. ‘If I ever want to grow, I can simply move to a larger office here. That's a nice thought.’
Looking back now, when did it become clear that you had made the right choice in opting for Business Centre?
The moment I realised that I wanted to have more social contact and enjoy going to work. That starts with a pleasant workplace. I found that here.
Would you also like to rent office space at Business Centre Breda or Etten-Leur? Make an appointment without obligation or drop by.
