LACRM
What were you doing before LACRM? What made you want to make a switch and seek a position here?
Before LACRM, I had worked several different full-time jobs since graduating from college (such as managing a flower shop and nannying for a family here in STL). My background is in theater performance and production, so I've always loved working with different types of people and challenging my communication skills. I had heard really great things about the culture at LACRM, and I liked the challenge of having to learn something completely new, so I applied.
What have you learned so far in your career here?
I've learned a lot about the day-to-day operations of running a small business, but I think I've also learned a lot about how to be independently motivated and approach learning new skills in different ways. The company is still small enough that you can take full ownership over new projects, which allows you to set the rules about how you'll accomplish tasks and reach goals. For instance, I started taking over making all of the help videos for the site (had never done anything remotely close to that), so I had to learn how to set attainable goals for learning new software, and then make a plan that allowed me to successfully carry out each project. LACRM is great because everyone is so open to learning new things, and they really give you the support needed to succeed (or fail, which, like, is still a success).
What’s your day-to-day life like working as a CRM Coach at LACRM?
It totally varies from day to day, which I love. Sometimes I'll spend a few hours answering customer questions, or sometimes I'll be on the phone with customers helping them get set up in the CRM. I love that we're not email support only, as getting on the phone with a customer just allows you to really get into the problem they're trying to solve and learn more about their business, which is so much more personal than an email. Also, our customers are awesome.
CRM Coaches get to designate 20% of each work week to other projects outside of the role. What have you had the opportunity to work on, and how has this impacted your career overall?
I've taken over making all of the help videos on our site, and I'm also the conference coordinator for our US and UK User Conferences. Video work lets me work my creative muscles a bit, and I really like the satisfaction of helping visual learners understand how the CRM works (‘cause I am one!). Conference planning is totally unlike anything else, and I love having the opportunity for face-to-face customer interaction.
How do you like living in St. Louis?
Love it. Born and raised here. I live for the changing of seasons in STL (literally -- I NEED IT TO SURVIVE) and I love being 10 minutes away from everything -- there's so much to do and see (and eat)!
What are a few of your favorite things about working for LACRM?
THE PEOPLE. These are some of the best people I know, and everyone is invested in making our customers happy. It's a very energetic vibe in the office -- you can really feel that people are happy at work and are excited to be a part of a growing company. I know how lucky I am to work somewhere like that. I also love the 20% time project -- this is such a special perk of the job, because it not only gives variety to your day to day stuff, but it allows you to expand your knowledge set and have major ownership in the company's success.
What do you think separates LACRM from other companies?
Employee happiness is a priority for the company, and you can feel it. Sure, there are lots of little perks that make working here so enjoyable (company lunches, team outings, weekly work-from-home days), but everyone is invested in making a happy, healthy company culture that nurtures new ideas and welcomes professional development, which makes all the difference. It feels like a family.
Is there anything else you’d like to say to someone considering applying for a role at Less Annoying?
I'd say to talk to someone who works here if you have questions -- we'd be happy to give you the scoop! If you are a people person who likes solving problems and being a part of a tight-knit team, apply!