CSU: Together, we speak more than 130 languages. This connects us all.
A cleaning company, but above all a people company
CSU employs colleagues of 130 different nationalities. This is literally reflected at Eindhoven Airport: the name badges of cleaning staff feature flags indicating which languages they speak. This allows travellers to ask their questions to the right person. Everyone feels welcome with that little bit extra. Hospitality is in the smallest details.
This diversity of languages and cultures is a strength, especially at an international location such as the airport. But it also comes with responsibility: how do you ensure that everyone really understands each other and is understood?
Language as a gateway to participation
CSU offers free Dutch lessons in collaboration with ROCs. These lessons focus not only on language, but also on broader basic skills such as reading, writing and arithmetic. Together, these skills are the key to participating not only at work, but also outside of work.
Employees feel more confident at the doctor's, when shopping or during conversations with their children's school when they have a better command of the Dutch language. Eindhoven Airport recently launched the Brainport voor Elkaar language buddy project. This is an initiative in which colleagues support each other in learning Dutch. As a language buddy, you practise Dutch with a foreign-language colleague once a week during working hours. This is a supplement to the regular Dutch lessons that many non-native speakers take, which focus more on the work situation and chatting at the coffee machine.
Visual contracts and translation aids
All internal communication at CSU has been rewritten in understandable B1 language. And where words are still difficult, tools have been developed to help.
Visual employment contracts use images, simple words and short sentences to make complex legal information understandable. This allows everyone – regardless of language level or legal knowledge – to fully understand the terms and conditions of employment. This approach not only helps to increase understanding, but also to build trust between employer and employee.
Translation earpieces translate conversations instantly and automatically into no fewer than 95 languages and dialects. The conversation leader uses the app, while the colleague wears the earpiece. This setup ensures natural and personal interaction, while still allowing for non-verbal communication. Ideal for important conversations such as safety instructions, sick leave interviews or introductory interviews with new employees.
Visible cleaning, truly understood
Years ago, CSU made a conscious decision to switch to daytime cleaning. No more working invisibly in the early morning or at night, but truly being part of the team in the building. This visible cleaning ensures greater appreciation.
And that appreciation goes beyond just being seen. It's about being heard, being understood, being able to participate. That's why CSU organises the MeewerkWeek (Participation Week) every year. Everyone from the office – from HR to management and even supervisory board members – spends part of a day cleaning. That way, they hear what's going on and what's really needed.