From fax machines and dusty carpets to a modern company in growth. In January 2025, Jes Eifler celebrated his 15-year anniversary as a sales representative at DANREC.
How did you get the job at DANREC?
– Since I was 10 years old, I’ve been selling bicycles and burned CDs. I trained in the fashion industry and owned a clothing store in Holstebro, which I sold in 2007. When I applied for the job, I was 20 years younger than the other applicants – yet DANREC chose to give me the opportunity.
How do you remember your first days?
– I was given a computer and a phone and placed alone in an office with a fax machine. I remember thinking: “What have I signed up for?” Then I started looking for customers in the Yellow Pages.
I created a website and a laminated catalogue, which I designed myself in PowerPoint. In the beginning, I was also responsible for printing invoices and calculating salaries.
Why have you stayed for 15 years?
– The director thought I was the type who would leave when things got tough. That made me determined to prove him wrong. I’m sales to the core.
Since then, I’ve built a strong network in Denmark and internationally. I have a theory that when you do business with people you genuinely like, things work better. And I’m constantly challenged as we continue to grow – and we’ve definitely pressed the growth button.
Why are you good at your job?
– I’ve always been told I’m a good salesperson, even though on paper I’m the opposite. They say a good salesperson speaks 20% of the time and lets the customer talk the rest. I’m the other way around – I talk 80%, and the customer is lucky if he gets 20%. But I think customers appreciate that I bring humour and plenty of self-irony.
How has DANREC developed during your time?
– Before Henrik Immerkær Ohm became CEO, DANREC was a bit behind the times – almost sending out mail by carrier pigeon, because not much had been invested in the company. When Henrik joined, we first removed the dusty carpets and curtains and modernised the company across the board.
How would you describe DANREC as a workplace?
– DANREC is innovative, humorous and ambitious. We have fun while taking our work seriously.
What has working at DANREC given you personally?
– I’ve grown with the role while the company has grown over the years. My family and friends send me pictures when they see competitors’ ground protection boards, just to tease me. Those pictures wake up something in me – because I want to be the best.
What don’t your colleagues know about you?
– I spend most of my spare time coaching 43 U13 boys in football.
