Chris Herrmann has been an integral part of RTS Electronic since 2007. What began in 2007 as an 8-week internship quickly became something more: in 2008, Chris began training as a wholesale and foreign trade merchant at RTS. This was followed by his first steps in sales over the next few years; in 2018, Chris took on more and more responsibility in the international sales business. Today, 14 years after taking over the apprenticeship, Chris is not only a key account manager with a keen sense for customers and markets – he is also a team leader, supplier expert, data analyst and, above all, a real pillar of strength for the entire team.
What sets him apart? His loyalty, commitment and his big heart for the team and the common cause. Chris thinks, feels and leads the way – and not just since yesterday. Anyone who works with him knows that you can rely on Chris. In addition to his job, he also masters family life with great dedication – he is married and a father of two. How does he juggle it all? We wanted to know that too. That’s why we asked him five personal questions that show him not just as a colleague, but as a person:
What motivates you every day at RTS Electronic?
First and foremost, it’s the people at RTS, I would describe us as a small family. This togetherness is by no means a given and motivates me to enjoy coming to work every day. I love the variety in my job. Every day is different: new projects, new challenges. That makes my working day exciting and lively. I never get bored, even after such a long time.
What qualities are particularly important to you in international customer service?
You have to keep calm. We work with very different people and cultures every day. One customer responds within minutes, another takes three weeks. It’s not always easy, but it’s part of the reality. To be honest, it can be quite demotivating at times, but we try to do our best together as a team to reach our goal. An important point, besides patience: always maintain respect and try to put yourself in the person’s shoes.
Is there a moment at RTS that you particularly remember?
Oliver Vakilzadeh and I were in Munich together for a customer meeting. It was at the time of the Oktoberfest and all the hotels were fully booked. But a double room was still available. What can I say? It was a funny moment that we don’t experience every day. To be honest, it was unique.
I like to think back to that moment. The result in this case paid off, we were able to win over the customer, who is still working with us successfully today.
How do you manage to reconcile work and family life?
Well, as my grandparents used to say: “It all depends on the organization.” And they were right 😊!
Much of life is a learning experience and over time, challenges become routine. The option of working flexibly from home is particularly helpful for me. I have to admit, it has saved my butt more than once. It allows my wife and I to better coordinate work and family life. Thanks to good agreements, clear structures and a large portion of teamwork.
What do you do to clear your head after an intensive day at work?
During my lunch break, I think about what I could cook for my family in the evening. I write myself a shopping list and go shopping for all the fresh ingredients straight after my working day. Then I get into the kitchen for the next 2 hours (or sometimes longer) and get started. My personal challenge is to have the food ready at the exact moment my wife walks in the front door, just in time for serving. It’s a great pleasure for me to see when everyone enjoys it. These are moments that really help me to switch off and process the intense working day.