Introducing our next "High-Flyer Spotlight" blog featuring Karst, a student with a passion for business and sustainability. Discover how Karst found an ideal balance between his studies and a flexible, fulfilling job at Minite. Curious about his journey? Read on!
Hi there! Can you introduce yourself?
I'm Karst, also known as Kars Niklaas. Originally, I'm from a not-so-exciting place in the northern part of the Netherlands. However, for the past four years, I've been calling Rotterdam my home. I began my studies at RSM, focusing on international business (IBA). Recently, I started a master's program in global business sustainability.
How did you find out about Minite?
Well, part of my experience before joining Minite was during the Eureka week. I was part of the Eureka week board. We partnered with Minite. So, during that time, we were collaborating, and throughout the week, I approached you to learn more about the platform. When it came to finding a job back in March, I already knew about Minite.
What kind of jobs have you done at Minite, and could you describe your role and tasks?
Sure thing! From the beginning, I was looking for jobs related to business development. I initially applied for two positions, but this one came along shortly after the first. For a while now, I've been working as a business developer for Closing Company. In this role, I deal with various tasks, primarily centered around managing new leads, particularly hot leads. Our company essentially handles parts of the sales process for others, acting as an outsourced department. As employees, we're outsourced to other companies, working on sales projects and reaching out to leads. In recent months, I've taken on more responsibilities, which is something I appreciate about this platform. The more skills you bring, the more you can offer. So, I've had discussions with my boss about additional tasks. I'm now more involved in automating processes for companies, using tools like Xavier and Alfred, and even in Excel, where we keep many of our lead lists. I've been a key part of streamlining these processes. I've also taken on a more significant role in lead generation, actively searching for interesting projects. My workload is about the same, but I have more diverse responsibilities. compared to when I started.
What do you like about your jobs the most?
I think it's all about balancing different aspects. On the one hand, it offers flexibility as you can easily do this job alongside your studies. It doesn't really get in the way. Just a bit of time management is needed, but once you've got that down, it's quite manageable. On the other hand, I see my job as a responsibility. I believe I have something valuable to offer the company. As long as I handle my assigned tasks well, I feel like I'm contributing. It's about striking a balance – enjoying the freedom in my job while understanding my responsibility and value to the company. And I'm also growing my skills, which is great. Even though most of my work is remote, the times we've worked in the office have been really useful. I've learned from colleagues doing similar work and from those with more experience and different responsibilities.
What's the best thing about being a High-Flyer?
It's quite similar to what I mentioned earlier. It's, on the one hand, the type of work you do and also how you do it. There's a lot of freedom in the way you work, and the whole idea is that it should complement your studies well.
Additionally, what I appreciate about being a High-Flyer is the wide range of job opportunities, even though I already have a position on the platform.
There are always more jobs available, and even though I don't always apply to them due to a skills mismatch, I'm constantly excited to see the variety of job listings.
At times, I've considered applying to different roles, but for now, I'm quite content where I am. It's not just the type of work, but also the diversity of available job options.
Why would you recommend working as a High Flyer, freelancing, or working with us to your friends?
Well, I've recommended it to friends in the past. Two of my friends recently signed up too. It's great because it's so easy to balance. With the rising cost of living, people often need a job alongside their studies to afford student life. This is the perfect way to do both. You gain experience, earn money, and develop your skills.
There are plenty of job options out there, but not all let you shine or use your skills to the fullest. Within this platform, you can find jobs that truly bring out your best, as long as you choose the right fit.
If you've been inspired by Karst's story and want to be a part of the exciting opportunities at Minite, then sign up today and start flying high!