What made you want to do the work you do? Please share the full story.
I love to make something out of nothing. It is very rewarding to see your idea turn into reality. I am a big believer in planning your work and then working your plan. Before I do anything big like open a new location, I make a detailed plan of all the steps it will take to accomplish. This includes timelines, people involved, contingent steps, etc. Then I just work my way through the list and meet the deadlines. Accomplishing something big is much more about consistent effort than anything else. I love what I do because my work is so visual. I like to be able to point out projects my company has done and tell people that I did that.
Tell us 3 surprisingly easy and 3 surprisingly difficult things about your job.
I like the people I work with. I like creating opportunities for people to move up in their careers. I like the creativity of my industry.
It is easy to sell our product once someone is in the door. It is easy lead an organization. It is easy to be successful when you have a good team.
It is very hard to find companies to buy. It can be hard to close complex deals. It is hard to limit what we sell since we have so many products available but need to stay focused.
What are the 3 things you like best about your work and why?
I like the people I work with. I like creating opportunities for people to move up in their careers. I like the creativity of my industry.
What are your greatest 3 skills and how have they helped you succeed?
I am a charismatic leader that people like to follow. I am excellent at winning people to my point of view.
I can learn new and complex concepts very quickly. This helps me understand the challenges my customers have and be able to create helpful solutions.
I get along with everyone.
I define success as being really satisfied with what you do. Success is about being happy when you go home at night.
Tell us about a time you were dead wrong about something.
I once thought we could save money by turning off the air conditioning over the weekend. The first weekend we tried it, all of the servers overheated and burned out. The replacement cost was significantly more than the savings from not having the AC on.
How do you get yourself out of a funk? Please share the details.
I don’t get overwhelmed. I am able to manage a lot at once – in fact, I prefer to have a few things going on at once.
What is a habit you try to stick to and how has it helped you?
I travel a lot. When I am at work, I give 100% effort and focus. It is mentally taxing and tiring. So, I like to take frequent trips – even just for a day or two – to recharge. This helps me bring my “A” game every day.
How do you celebrate your victories?
I love to celebrate with food – and pizza is a good choice for that always.
What is your favorite movie and why?
I just rewatched all of the Harry Potter movies with my kids. I grew up as the books and movies came out and now I get to enjoy seeing my kids discover the magic. It is a lot of fun.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
I think my younger self did a good job. I probably wouldn’t give too much different direction.
Who has been your biggest mentor in life (personal or professional) and how have they helped you?
My dad. He is my role model in all areas of my life. If I turn out like him then that is a good thing.
Just for fun, what is your favorite food?
I love pizza. I love to celebrate with food – and pizza is a good choice for that always.