Meet Our Account Executive: Matt Long's Full Q&A
Q: What is your name & title?
A: I’m Matt Long, the Account Executive at Lechner First Aid Supply.
Q: How long have you worked here?
A: I’ve worked here for 2 months.
Q: Was there anyone who inspired you to work in first aid?
A: Stephanie Clark, the general manager and I, have known each other from a previous employer. She inspires me!
Q: Why are you passionate about working in safety? Was there a defining moment you realized this?
A: I have always been a person who’s loved to help people. I was a former EMT! I was out in the streets helping people, so this is something I have a personal tie to.
Q: Is there a memory here that has stood out to you?
A: There was once a cicada that jumped on the back of one of our colleagues. His scream could be heard from the inside of the warehouse!
Q: What are the most vital takeaways that enlightened your first aid experience?
A: There’s a family atmosphere here that I think goes into the caring and safety aspect. In a family, you want to take people in. So, this company embodies how we take care of each other and our clients.
Q: Can you tell me what it’s like working for the Lechner First Aid Supply team?
A: Stephanie and I make a great team. We're always bouncing ideas off of each other. It’s a really good pairing, it makes coming to work easy. It doesn’t feel like just a job. It’s an event that brings something new everyday. I always look forward to coming in the door.
Q: What makes you a unique team member?
A: I can be humorous! I like to form different ideas and create solutions to benefit the customer. My experience from the clinical side of proper first aid supplies and techniques can truly help benefit the person who’s injured. This has cultivated my unique perspective.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I enjoy working with my colleagues and meeting new people. When I came into the building for the first time, everyone welcomed me with open arms. I didn’t feel like a stranger or an outcast. That really helps to settle you down in a new environment.
Q: What are some achievements that made you feel rewarded?
A: Convincing the customer to replace their equipment was a very important accomplishment. As a past EMT, I knew the essential policies. I was able to explain and lay out the information that needs to be known. He realized that he not only needed to change, but to buy first aid right away!
Q: What makes the Lechner company standout?
A: The family and small business setup allows you to feel like you're really a part of something. I’m not just a number, I’m not just getting a check, but I’m really making a difference.
Q: How would you describe your first aid colleagues?
A: My colleagues are funny, energetic, warm, and inviting!
Q: What does your typical work day look like?
A: My typical work day is following up on quotes and going out to visit customers. I check out their facilities and make recommendations on safety based on what I see. I especially drop in to check on people who may not know about us or safety regulations. It’s my job to spread the word on Lechner first aid. I enjoy dropping those seeds in the field.
Q: What’s your favorite Lechner First Aid Supply product & why?
A: The AEDs and hemostatics bandages are my favorite products. I know the benefit of an AED when I was an EMT. It really does save lives! Hemostatics help control the bleeding. We need our blood to stay alive!
Q: What are some personal goals this company helped you with?
A: This role was a nice pathway back into first aid and healthcare that I have always had a passion for.
Q: What are some hobbies you enjoy in your freetime?
A: I’m a professional musician! I have my own dependent record label! I’m a recording artist on iTunes and Amazon. Music is a definite passion of mine.
Q: What are some guidance pointers you have for your fellow colleagues?
A: Enjoy the day, don’t let work work YOU. You want to really enjoy what you’re doing because our efforts truly help people.
Q: How do you uplift your fellow colleagues?
A: I am always available to answer questions. I am always ready to share my knowledge. I want to help them succeed and to be that open door in their position as well.
Q: Tell us about a situation when a customer was delighted with your service?
A: I assisted a person who didn’t know the program ramifications of the AEDs. I went in depth on the Illinois codes and procedures. I was able to help them mitigate their liability in the situation and they really appreciated it. It was kind of an educational call at the same time.
Q: How do you overcome challenges at work?
A: Don’t feel defeated. When problems do strike, an important attribute is being able to adapt and be flexible. There are going to be things that come up. So, coming up with solutions vs. complaining about the problem is how I tackle things.
Q: What would you like customers to know about the Lechner First Aid Supply service?
A: This industry is necessary, there's injuries all over the place and all the time. We really want to help people to not be afraid and to lend a helping hand. It starts with the right supplies, training, and knowledge.
Q: Can you revisit a time when Lechner displayed your skills or expertise?
A: Being the account executive, being in front of the customer, and helping as one of the faces of this company is how I feel highlighted. I am a very social person! Lechner has given me the opportunity to be like "agent 007" in the field and save lives.
