Are you a fan of the RTL5 programme 'Schiphol Airport'? We are too! So, it was high time for a chat with one of the stars of the series, floor manager Daan. She introduces herself here in six questions.
'My name is Daan, I'm 56 years old, live in the municipality of Utrecht and have been working at Schiphol with great satisfaction for over 30 years. First in handling for SLM, the Surinamese Airline, at check-in. Then I was a floor walker (referring passengers to the right desk and answering questions) and worked as a passenger assistant. I have now been a floor manager for seven years.'
‘At Schiphol, every day is different. As a floor manager you have a different area every shift. Like area 4, for example, which includes Arrivals 1, 2 and 3. I give instructions to the passenger assistants (PAs) about the expected crowds and which flights are coming in. And if it's really busy, I am on site. But I can always be called up for an emergency response. Sometimes I help other floor managers if it is very busy in their area and in between I answer travellers' questions and help when there are problems.’
‘A floor manager must be welcoming, empathetic, customer-friendly and have strong communication skills. Knowledge of the area is a must because we work everywhere in the terminal, both in front of and behind the border. You also have to talk to various chain partners. In short: Schiphol should have your heart!’
‘I thought it would be great to show other people how cool it is to work at Schiphol and that there is a lot more going on behind the scenes than what you see when you come here as a traveller. People have no idea what's involved. The job of floor manager is very varied and really enjoyable.’
'Schiphol is my second home, that's a feeling I just can't explain. Even if I'm tired or grumpy, when I get to the floor, that's gone. Every day is different, and I experience so many great things. And helping people and making them feel good is the best thing there is.'
'On the floor I am recognised daily, and people recognise me in private too. The reactions are all positive and very nice. I'm not on social media much, so any negative reactions pass me by thankfully. The best compliment I get is that I am and always remain myself.'
'The film crew was super sweet and fun. Even though it was tiring, I had really great filming days. So, I would definitely do it again if there's another season.'
Want to see Daan and her colleagues in action? 'Schiphol Airport' is available to stream on Videoland.