“Have the will to endure and figure out a solution. You have to find a way to make it work…”
We recently chatted with Harry Anderson, who is an Account Manager at WLS. Harry has been with WLS for 30 years.
What is a day in your life as an Account Manager like?
My day is largely determining solutions for different applications. Naturally, every customer need is different. Our team evaluates options and discusses potential paths to get the customer to the right technological solution. An appropriate summary of my job is figuring out what the customer needs, and spearheading efforts to make it happen.
What inspires you to succeed every day?
I really am inspired in working with a customer, producing their project, and ultimately bringing to fruition a technical solution that fulfills the need. And, navigating that path — from need to solution — it’s very rewarding.
What is the most meaningful part of your day?
I would say it’s determining the right path forward. When we deal with a customer’s needs, there are many aspects to consider. We can come up with a perfect technical solution but the delivery for that solution might not meet the desired timeframe. Or, we can meet the timeframe, but the price point doesn’t work for the customer. Considering all of the needs of the customer, then, as a team at WLS determining how we can meet and exceed the needs and expectations — that’s very meaningful and rewarding.
When do you have the most fun at work?
I love when our team works together, each of us bringing our strengths to the table. We have a fantastic team of great people, and we work hard together to make each project be what it needs to be. We are honest with ourselves and the customers, we are critical and evaluative, and we always view things pragmatically and with the best solutions in mind. Accomplishing each and every successful installation — that’s the best part.
Why did you select ProMach as opposed to another company?
I came to the company before it was called Weiler or WLS. The gentleman who hired me really understood the customer base. He instilled in me and our team (at that time) the values that enamored me to come work for this company. As time went on and the company changed, we held on to those values and culture.
What opportunities or experiences have you most enjoyed?
An experience I have enjoyed is when we decided to build our own equipment, rather than taking our prior approach of only integrating other equipment. And we started creating things that no one else offered. For example, rotary machines from other companies were 3-4 times the size of what we had at the time. It was the development of these new products that I’ve enjoyed the most. Our Autonomy product was a similar case. That is going to be a game changing product that will give customers so much more control of their labels.
If someone new were joining the team what one piece of advice do you think they should know?
Have the will to endure and figure out a solution. You have to find a way to make it work… and when someone tells you no, that “no” answer needs to be explored, even though that’s not always pleasant. Understanding why someone says no may offer the pathway to make it happen.
What is something you’ve learned or your biggest take away during your time at ProMach?
Something I typed out and affixed to my desk – patience! That’s a key ingredient. Sometimes it’s important — even critical — to be expeditious. But sometimes, time and contemplation are needed.
What keeps you motivated and coming to work every day?
I love my job. I love what I do. I love the people I work with — both colleagues and customers. My job is so rewarding… It’s a wonderful feeling when we deliver each project.
Thanks for speaking with us, Harry!
