I thought: I really want to make a difference. That feeling led me to take on government projects.

In Spot On, we're pleased to introduce our colleagues. This time, we're featuring Mirjam Haarman-Lampe, interim spokesperson at the Ministry of Defense.

"What gives me satisfaction is contributing to the accurate provision of information for Dutch residents. Sometimes it's quite a challenge because these may not be the most 'sexy' topics, but they are important nonetheless.

For Mirjam, social impact is at the heart of her work. After over 15 years of experience in commercial roles, she decided to transition to government. A former colleague introduced Mirjam to Babbage. After an introductory meeting, she joined the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) spokesperson team as an environmental analyst. It was in the midst of the coronavirus crisis, an intensive but instructive period. "Of course, what happened was anything but pleasant, but the speed, dynamism, and intensity made it very special. A crash course in spokesperson skills."

Spokesperson at the Ministry of Defense

She subsequently applied what she learned during this first experience as a spokesperson to her assignments at the Municipal Health Service (GGD), Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, and most recently, her role as interim spokesperson at the Ministry of Defense. There, she supported the Minister and State Secretary on issues such as AI, space travel, knowledge institutes, diversity, and corporate issues. "As a spokesperson, you answer questions from the media about how the government handles these topics. You monitor what's happening and proactively share news."

The work is anything but predictable. International events such as defense budget discussions and the House of Representatives' summer recess all directly impact her work.

The life of an interim manager

According to Mirjam, life as an interim worker has both pros and cons. The advantages are the variety and freedom: a constantly changing environment and the ability to flexibly schedule your assignments. However, there are also disadvantages: you have to prove yourself over and over again and have no permanent security. But according to Mirjam, "for me, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. So as long as I can, I'll continue working as an interim."

Tips for new interim workers

Her advice for new interim staff? Present yourself well. "You have to apply for jobs again and again and clearly demonstrate your strengths and how you can contribute." She also emphasizes flexibility and empathy. "You have to be able to move easily internally and adapt quickly. Ultimately, every communication product revolves around achieving a goal. Empathy with the target audience is crucial in this regard."

For those just starting out, Mirjam's career is an inspiring story. "I never dreamed I'd end up on a minister's spokesperson team. That shows what's possible."

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