For this month’s Atlas member interview, we talked to Karolina Jasińska from Warsaw, Poland. We discussed how she ended up in freight forwarding by accident, starting her own company and the importance of giving more chances to young employees.
How did you get started in the logistics industry and what has your journey been like so far?
I started in forwarding 20 years ago as a sales assistant and it wasn’t planned, I got there by accident.
I looked for some job, and studied logistics so passed my CV, and got it. I spent the first three months on trainings in all departments to learn more about this business. It was a good time, but also rough at the same time – lots of information, new people, documents and so on.
The last step was in the airfreight department. When I walked through the door at the airport office, I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do in my life. Airport is a specific place, and you need to feel it – those vibes, atmosphere of rush and some adrenaline as well. I worked for many companies in the industry, until in 2019 I eventually founded my own company.
If there is one thing that you could change to the logistics industry, what would it be and why?
To give young people who start in forwarding more time to learn and understand the market and its needs, but also a chance to experience all logistics processes from the bottom till the final arrangements, instead of being only a small part of the machine. We need to have more independent, well-trained people in order to be successful.
What do you like most about the industry and your job in particular?
Dealing with global customers, negotiations and plenty of challenges on a daily basis – there is no place for boredom.
How do you set yourself apart from your competitors?
We are focused on tailor made solutions, 24/7 phone and e-mail contact. It sounds kind like cliché, but we really do listen our customer’s needs and we just improve our services every single day.
What do you like the most about being a member of our logistics network?
Atlas is not just another network, the energy and vibes are more like a family. I know I deal with medium sized companies – same as mine. I can easily reach out to the right people instead of being lost in a maze of a company’s structure. During Atlas’ annual conference, it’s not a problem to meet most of the attendees and talk about business, build relationship and start cooperating as well.
How do you relax in your free time?
My family, travels, gardening, long walks with our puppies and cat. Something only for myself – meditation.
Thank you, Karolina!
