What’s one professional skill you’re currently working on?
Listening. Many of you know that I love a good conversation (I talk a lot), but I have been focusing on being more of an active listener.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
No more procrastination, take action. I have decided to change a few habits in my life lately and I’ve learned to just put your head down and get to work. You must have a positive mindset, and know that what you put in today will pay off in the future.
Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?
So many professionals have influenced me by showing that hard work will always pay off. Whether it’s an athlete, businessperson, musician, CEO, coach, etc. the leaders are always the hardest workers. Some of the most recent people who have influenced me include climbers like Alex Honnold, Tommy Caldwell, Nimsdai Purja, Adam Ondra, and Jimmy Chinn. They are relentless with their drive to be the best and have accomplished some of the most awesome feats in recent history.
What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute your success to, and why?
Success as an Account Executive starts with being able to have a conversation with someone you may not know (yet). I have always enjoyed having these conversations and like to think that people enjoy the conversation as much as I do. At every stage in my career, having this outgoing, talkative personality has been a benefit.
What led you to this career?
If you were to tell me I’d be an Account Executive in Cedar Rapids, Iowa a few years ago, I would have thought you were crazy. Not too long ago, I was a Geologist on the Drilling Rigs in North Dakota, but the oil crash of 2015 led me down a path in sales. I started to sell Life Insurance, which then turned into an SDR position at Jamf Software. I was quickly given an opportunity to become an Account Executive at Jamf and really enjoyed the position. I decided to make Sales my career choice and ended up in Cedar Rapids, where I was very fortunate to find Involta. I have learned so much since starting here, and today Iowa feels as much like home as any place in my past.
What’s the one thing that has surprised you about working at Involta?
The people, the leadership, and the culture. I feel like part of a family here, and that’s something that is rare to find at work. You can tell that everyone here genuinely cares about you no matter what position they hold. It has been a pleasant surprise for me.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about your position?
To be fair, I’m not sure. I guess some clients may view Account Executives a certain way due to past experiences, but I want all my customers to know that I am only here to help their business succeed. Internally, some may view the position a certain way, but to be a successful AE, you have to understand the products. It’s been a fun challenge for me to learn all the products we offer.
What’s your favorite piece of technology? Why?
Easily my phone. What a technological accomplishment! My world has completely changed for the better with smart phones. Music, camera, productivity, messaging, streaming – everything is in your pocket. I feel like it has been such an important aspect of our lives that we forget how amazing this piece of tech is.
What is one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
Becoming healthier in 2022, both mentally and physically. I am off to a great start so far, and I have some lofty goals set, but I need to get out of this pandemic funk that I’m sure many of us fell into the last two years. Eat less, drink less, workout more.
What’s the one thing most people don’t know about you?
I am sure a few people know this, but I have recently started to coach hockey for the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders Youth program. It has really kept me busy after work and I am at the rink almost every day. I have really enjoyed volunteering my time to try and help kids learn the great game of hockey.
What’s the best advice you were given? From who?
The best advice I was given was from my friend, Riley, who told me I should go talk to my now wife, Nicole.
What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
Really depends on the day, but usually it’s one of the following: Playing with my dog, Jameson, playing some video games with my friends and wife, playing guitar, watching a good documentary, or watching the Wild/Wolves play. When it’s nice out, it’s great to get outside and go for a jog/hike. And if it’s a Friday, it’s a nice 3-finger pour of one of the many bourbons I have. Cheers!
