“You have a better conversation in someone’s mother tongue”
Through Inspiration4You, Theo Hamaekers trains operational managers at Basic-Fit in several European countries. His nine-month programme helps them become even better managers. When he was asked to introduce the programme in Spain, he wanted to do more than simply make himself understood. To build a real connection with his Spanish colleagues, he first attended a preparation day at Regina Coeli, followed by an intensive five-day Spanish course.
Why did you choose Regina Coeli?
“I had heard about Regina Coeli’s excellent reputation. I can now say that all the positive stories are true. If you want to learn a language, this is the place to be.”
What were your learning goals?
“At Basic-Fit’s head office in Madrid, I want to be able to speak Spanish with my colleagues. My main goal is to ask questions and listen.
For me, good cooperation starts with a good conversation. I work a great deal with diversity and inclusion, and I try to connect people. Language is essential for this.
I also have an apartment in Spain and I am the chair of the owners’ association. I want to be able to express myself well in Spanish in that role too. The other owners say they can speak English with me, but I am convinced that you have a better conversation with someone when you speak their mother tongue.”
Does culture also play a role in your work?
“Culture definitely plays a role. For example, one part of the Basic-Fit training programme is about giving feedback. In the Netherlands, employees in organisations with a flat structure are often used to giving feedback quite directly. In Spain, this is much less common.
We work with a Spanish trainer to deliver the programme to Basic-Fit’s Spanish managers. This trainer has an in-depth understanding of both the language and the local culture. My own knowledge of Spanish helps me coordinate better with my colleagues and become truly involved.”
What did you think of the course?
“I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to do this. I had fantastic language trainers. The peaceful surroundings, personal attention and excellent service also contributed to the experience. Everything was just right.”
Did you achieve your goals?
“I learned a great deal, and I think I can now have conversations in Spanish. It helped a lot that I attended a preparation day before coming here for the five-day course. I learned a lot in that one day and got to know Regina Coeli.
Afterwards, I was able to prepare well for the course through several homework assignments. That gave me a head start. I would recommend a preparation day to everyone.”
What will you tell others about your course at Regina Coeli?
“That all the positive stories are true. This week has turned me into a real ambassador for Regina Coeli. I will tell others: if you want to learn a language, you simply have to do it, and this is the place to be.”