At the UMCG, patient care naturally takes precedence. However, behind the scenes, various professionals play a vital role in ensuring the hospital's smooth functioning on the Healthy Ageing Campus. One such individual is Linda Reinders, a communications officer for construction projects at the UMCG. Together with Carin Pier, coordinator of communications for construction projects, she manages the communication for all ongoing and upcoming construction projects spanning the next 15 years at UMCG. Linda says, 'We are working on shaping the UMCG of the future. This perspective makes our work highly interesting and meaningful.'
Linda continues, 'I've been working at the UMCG for about four months now, and I already feel completely at home here. I have the opportunity to grow and develop. No day is the same: one day I'm on the construction site with my helmet and work boots for filming, the next day I'm drafting a campaign strategy for the launch of our new website umcgbouwt.nl. I find it fascinating to bring together the stories of construction and healthcare. Of course, we are building for healthcare - to improve healthcare and make the UMCG future-proof. This makes our work very interesting and meaningful. It's great to work with Carin; she brings a wealth of experience and has a vast network.'
Additionally, what I find very exciting is the behind-the-scenes look into healthcare. For instance, for this new website, it's useful that I not only know how the new operating rooms will look but also understand how the current ones are arranged. This way, in communications, I can articulate concrete improvements clearly.'
This communication work extends beyond internal contacts. Regular discussions also take place with partners and stakeholders such as contractors, the University of Groningen, and Campus Groningen. Carin adds, 'We establish connections with various stakeholders. By collaborating in communication, we broaden our scope and reinforce each other. We also work together with Hanze University of Applied Sciences for construction communication. For instance, in February, we're starting a thesis group. Five communication students will conduct their thesis research at UMCGBOUWT.' Linda adds, 'I find it admirable that the UMCG provides space for students. I haven't been out of school for long, so I understand how crucial this is.'
What qualities does a young professional need to work and grow in a large, complex organization like the UMCG? Linda doesn't hesitate: 'Show initiative, have courage, and be yourself.' Starters are crucial for an organization like UMCG, Carin emphasizes: 'Linda and I share a good connection, which makes our collaboration very pleasant.'