Together we connect: “Small moments make the difference”
Connection doesn’t only happen during large events or formal occasions. It’s often found in the small things: a conversation, organizing something together, getting to know each other better. Ageeth sees this every day in her work.
Who is Ageeth?
Ageeth works as an HR Coordinator at JBT Marel. In addition to her regular HR responsibilities, she has a role she perhaps enjoys the most: organizing events for over 1,200 employees. From staff parties and Christmas gatherings to jubilees.
“What I enjoy most is the contact with my colleagues. Take the staff party we organized, for example. We’re a large company, so there’s a lot involved. You don’t organize something like that alone—you do it together with a whole group of colleagues. That’s exactly what makes it so enjoyable. It allows me to get to know people from across the company.”
A lot of connection is already built during the preparation phase.
“I also like how we approach the staff party: as employees, we organize it for our colleagues. Of course, it’s voluntary—you’re not required to attend a party or a gathering. But you really see that people come because they want to. That gives me energy in my work.”
Attention to personal moments
Within JBT Marel, milestones are given meaningful attention. Employees celebrating 25, 40, or even 50 years with the company—as well as colleagues who are retiring—are recognized in a special way. Sometimes these moments are celebrated on a larger scale, with an official gathering where colleagues can express their appreciation. But not everyone feels comfortable being in the spotlight, and there is room for that too. The celebration is centered around the individual, with different options to make it personal. Not interested in a large reception? That’s perfectly fine.
“When organizing a jubilee, there’s always a conversation with the colleague involved. Through that, I really get to know people. It gives me a better understanding of the different departments within JBT Marel. And when you know each other, collaboration simply becomes more pleasant.”
According to Ageeth, this personal contact helps departments feel less distant and makes collaboration more natural.
More than just a ‘good day’
Ageeth’s sense of connection to the organization is clear from her long tenure. “I’ve been working here for twenty years—but it feels like it just happened naturally,” she says. “I still go to work with a lot of enjoyment. There’s plenty of variety, and both my work and my colleagues make it even more enjoyable.”
What makes that difference? “The company invests in it—through all the events and activities—and you can really see that reflected.”
When asked what defines a good day, she pauses for a moment.
“I think it’s important that we work together. That we help each other. Small moments like: ‘Oh, is that how you do it? I didn’t know that.’ That’s when you learn new things from each other. But also showing interest in one another.”
“We’re growing as an organization, and we don’t always know exactly what everyone does anymore. A phone call or a conversation at the HR desk can create a lot of mutual understanding. But also meeting deadlines by working hard together—and sharing a laugh. After a day like that, I leave the office feeling satisfied.”
For her, the difference lies in working together: helping each other, learning from one another, and achieving results as a team.
A shared responsibility
The organization has grown significantly in recent years. That brings new opportunities, but also the challenge of staying connected.
“We communicate enthusiastically about everything that’s being organized, but ultimately it’s up to each colleague to decide whether to sign up and attend. I do notice that people are busier these days and often already have plans. You don’t have to attend everything that’s organized.”
Still, she encourages colleagues to make the effort—especially now.
“I would definitely recommend that colleagues make time to join every now and then, especially now that we’ve grown so much. You get to know each other in a different way. And if you take the initiative to suggest going for a drink, you might just spark something among your colleagues.”
Even a small step can make a big difference.
Ageeth’s tip
Ageeth closes with a simple but clear message:
“Be open to one another and show interest. Don’t stay too much in your own bubble—and try to help each other step out of it.”
Because in the end, connection isn’t found in big gestures, but in paying attention to one another—both in daily work and beyond.