When someone close to you has a struggling business, KVK can help

KVK advisor Gé Gijsen works for the KVK Advice Team: "I regularly speak to partners or parents because the business owner can no longer cope on their own. Business owners don't always talk about their concerns, even though financial problems cause a lot of stress. This also affects their private lives." As a loved one, you try to provide as much support as possible, but you may not know much about running a business. The situation can also feel difficult for you. Please know that you can call KVK.

Do you recognise the signs?

Those close to an entrepreneur often quickly notice that something is wrong. "Perhaps they are working late into the night, sleeping poorly. Perhaps they have lost their appetite. These are all signs that things are not going well," says Gijsen. "Even if they don't talk about their problems, you can sense that something is wrong."

The concerns that callers share with Gijsen are understandable. Entrepreneurs are seeing their turnover and profits decline. They are losing customers and their financial reserves are running out. Sometimes an entrepreneur even has to use their private assets or pension to keep the business afloat.

Talk to each other

Do you notice that someone close to you is stressed? It helps to start a conversation. You do not have to give advice right away. Just listen. That way, your loved one will feel heard. That is an important first step. Do you find that difficult? KVK can help you have that conversation. 

What happens when you call?

When you call, the KVK will listen and help you. The adviser will first listen to your story. That often provides some peace of mind. Gijsen: "Then we will think about solutions together. Sometimes we give personal advice, sometimes we refer you to a partner from the KVK network who can help. We can also support you in convincing your loved one to contact us themselves." 

You can call from Monday to Friday between 8:30 and 17:00 on 088 585 22 22.