Humour is the most important thing

[Transnational networks work when there are people behind them who communicate openly, pursue common goals and respect each other. With this look behind the scenes, we introduce you to employees within the European Food Network who, with their know-how and enthusiasm for the job, ensure that your food products are available across Europe every day.]

In this article, Claudia Rau, Team Leader Switchboard/Reception at DACHSER Nuremberg, reports on how she deals with stressful situations in her everyday work life  and why she never loses her joy in her job.

Nuremberg gingerbread, Nuremberg grilled sausages or other delicacies like champagne ... Especially during the cold season, we at DACHSER Nuremberg export very popular delicacies. It can sometimes get stressful for the employees. In my job as Team Leader Switchboard/Reception, I actively support the individual departments and together we master all tasks. I like working with a variety of people - friendliness, helpfulness and honesty are important character traits. The management attaches great importance to good cooperation within the company. But it is especially important to enjoy the activities - I am a cheerful person and always come to work with a smile.

My working day starts at 7:30 a.m. with opening the incoming mailbox from other DACHSER houses and processing the external incoming mail. After that, the telephone system is switched on and calls are answered as well as customers are attended to and, if necessary, forwarded internally. The visitor lists of the previous day are checked, new visitors are welcomed during the day and the respective internal contact person is informed about the arrival. During the day, outgoing mail is sorted, enveloped and franked. In addition, we process the general DACHSER email inbox at reception. In addition, incoming requests and tasks are taken over and implemented by managers.  

Dealing with customers and visitors and the first contact with external people in the context of the switchboard is particularly exciting in my job. Sometimes it is necessary to placate and reassure customers, which can become a real challenge. But when I was looking to re-enter the workforce as a mother 22 years ago, I was looking for just such a challenge. This job is perfect for me! I got the confirmation that I am doing my job well when I was promoted to Team Leader. DACHSER also has a top range of further training opportunities.

We always have a lot of fun in the office - with each other and also with the clients and visitors. Every day you experience something new. There are always different situations that you have to adapt to. Humour is very important here, but we all don't lack it. Laughter is healthy and good for everyone! After a hard day at work, I can relax, especially over delicious food and a good glass of wine. As a balance to my sedentary work, I like to do gardening and go cycling or running. Nuremberg's green spaces, but also the surrounding countryside, have a lot to offer for every nature and exercise lover.

I hope that I have been able to give you a little insight into my everyday working life and that you have enjoyed reading this. Have you ever been to Nuremberg? Especially at Christmas time, my hometown is worth a visit, and you simply have to taste the delicious Nuremberg gingerbread on site at the Christmas market.  

Yours, Claudia Rau