MARCO VAN BURKEN
External Confidential Advisor
I have studied Technical Business Administration, following which I played various roles as a QHSE (Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment) manager at different organisations. Later, I ventured into establishing and maintaining management systems through my own company. These experiences spanned organisations with diverse backgrounds, often with a strong technical orientation, such as Aerospace, ICT, or Graphics. Frequently, there were connections to occupational health and safety issues, where prevention officers and trust advisors were often key points of contact.
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Within the Aerospace industry, a crucial question always loomed: Would you feel comfortable letting your mother board planes where your organisation handles parts of the maintenance? Ensuring a safe working environment was and remains paramount. Is it acceptable to voice what's necessary to guarantee safety? Safety has always been a top priority, both in the tasks undertaken and the work environment in which they were executed. Building trust among team members is crucial for a safe working environment.
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As I embarked on my personal development journey, I increasingly delved into the human aspect of work, leading me to develop as a systemic worker. What undercurrents exist within an organisation? What factors from an employee's origin system come into play? Anyone familiar with the work of Els van Steijn understands that we all carry our own family systems into our work, often resulting in differences in our worldview from our colleagues or other stakeholders.
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I've noticed that people often confide in me regarding workplace issues. Through these experiences, I've learned that I can sometimes make a difference by helping them look at situations from different angles, with active listening being crucial. What is being said exactly? What interests are at play? What is the communication style being used? I've frequently observed that the tone sets the melody, and when we are affected in our "own areas," as referred to in systemic work, we are sometimes invited to introspect rather than focusing solely on others.
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This led me to leverage my experience and expertise as a certified Confidential Advisor (LVV) to assist a wide range of companies. Supporting the creation of a safe and trusting work environment is vital, and this is a collective effort.
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In addition to my professional work, I voluntarily serve in various board positions. At present, I am the treasurer for the mutual aid fund to which I belong, where individuals are encouraged to constructively engage with a collective that provides support when someone becomes (temporarily) unable to work.
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In addition to Dutch, I am also proficient in English and can provide my services in both languages.