Wouter Jansen, a fellow entrepreneur with whom I worked on the development and market launch of “365 Shield” workwear for the construction industry, asked me if becoming a Consularis was something for me.
He had to explain to me first what that was, Consularis.
His brief answer was, “Some kind of SME commissioner.”
He then explained, “An experienced director or former director of an SME who supports fellow entrepreneurs with advice and practical assistance. Someone an SME entrepreneur can consult with on important decisions and exchange ideas about the company’s strategy.”
That appealed to me. From personal experience, I knew it’s beneficial to be able to discuss your ideas and doubts with someone. But it’s also quite difficult to find someone who is independent and who understands your situation as an SME and speaks your language.
After an introductory meeting with two other Consularis, I joined the Consularis Foundation. More than 10 years have passed since then, and I’m still grateful to Wouter for his advice. Being a Consularis is a wonderful profession, and the Consularis Foundation forms a powerful network of inspiring colleagues. We share experiences and insights, for example, during peer review meetings. We also enjoy a round of golf or a joint sailing trip. Or we meet with a small group of guests to discuss a current business topic. Practically speaking, at a company where this issue is relevant. This way, we learn from each other and support the host/hostess entrepreneur.
But the best part is the work as a Consularis.
You’re not an advisor in the traditional sense, nor are you a commissioner with formal management responsibilities. But an advisor without business or financial interests. Involved yet independent. This allows an entrepreneur to speak freely with you—and vice versa.
My own “Consularis avant la lettre” (Consularis before the term existed) Constant van Gestel once put it this way: “I don’t know either, but in a different way. So we’ll figure it out together.”
It’s fantastic to help fellow entrepreneurs, while also constantly gaining new insights and experiences yourself.
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