Doing business pleasantly with... Erik van Veen

In 'Doing business pleasantly with...' MASTERS speaks with prominent entrepreneurs. How do you conduct business in a way that feels good? Erik van Veen is a boatman through and through. He prefers to be on the water, and otherwise he will talk about it. As owner and director of Da Vinci Yachting, he and his family business have been building classically lined sporty yachts of 30, 32, 35 or 40 feet for more than twenty years.

In 'Pleasant doing business with…' MASTERS talks to a prominent entrepreneur. Because, how do you do business pleasantly? Erik van Veen is a boatman par excellence. He prefers to be on the water and otherwise he will talk about it. As owner and director of the very Dutch Da Vinci Yachts, he and his family business have been building classically lined sporty yachts of 30, 32, 35 or 40 ft for more than twenty years. Text: Tamara GijrathWhat characterizes an entrepreneur?
“As an entrepreneur you see opportunities in almost everything that comes your way or that is handed to you. And also: work hard in difficult times and ensure that you achieve your turnover. Be creative in every situation, inspire confidence and keep your agreements.”

Where have you ever gotten your best deal?
“Simply at the office in Heeg, a pleasant environment for customers and almost always the place where the deal is closed. For me, MASTERS EXPO is ideally suited for our branding and customer loyalty.”The perfect business gift?
“A firm handshake on a great deal for both parties.”

Digital. Friend or enemy?
“Whether we want to or not, we can't ignore it anymore, so we embrace it. No matter how difficult it is for the industry in which we work, everything revolves around feeling.”

What do you do on an off-day?
“I actually never have that, otherwise I just keep going.”

How do you drink your coffee?
"Black"

Nice place for a good conversation?
“On the water, on a yacht in the sun.”

Watch?
“Garmin Quatix, which can be connected to our ships.”

Automobile?
“Volvo V60 pole star”

What is your favorite business suit?
“Sneakers, jeans and a shirt.”

What do you always have with you?
"My phone. An iPhone 11”

What is always on your desk?
“A beautiful piece of art that my wife gave me.”

Which entrepreneur would you like to have lunch with?
“Pieter Schoen, known as one of the five investors in Dragons' Den. I find him always sharp, always critical, neat and controlled. He has a fantastic view of things and a very quick eye.”

What is your golden entrepreneurial tip?
"Always be yourself."