In his new column for De Ondernemer, co-founder Jildert Huitema reveals just how quickly the bill adds up. Six employees absent for an average of six months with a gross monthly salary of €4,000? That costs at least €500,000 per year. Ten percent of your workforce is gone, and a budget deficit that isn't easily recovered.
However, the most striking insight is that a large portion of absenteeism starts at the hiring stage. Deciding too quickly, failing to ask the right follow-up questions, or simply being too relieved that someone applied at all. Jildert demonstrates that a more rigorous recruitment process—including assessments, multiple interviews, and thorough reference checks—costs roughly €1,500 to €2,500 per hire. Considering one long-term sick employee costs at least €40,000, the math is simple.
In addition, he shares practical tools for sustainable employability: how entrepreneurs can spot early warning signs, which conversations actually need to happen, and what steps to take if you are already dealing with long-term absence.
Read the full column on De Ondernemer
