Employee Spotlight: Alison McBride
At Bathshack, we have a diverse team of employees who work hard across the business to deliver all of our services. From the showroom, clearance, trade, telesales and customer experience teams to our marketing and eCommerce staff, as well as our business support, warehousing, supply chain and transport employees, there are all sorts of roles within the company.
With this in mind, we thought we’d introduce the faces behind them in our Employee Spotlight feature, where employees will share a bit about what they do at Bathshack, along with some information about themselves.
So, without further ado, let’s shine the spotlight on this month’s employee and get better acquainted …
Employee name: Alison McBride
Job title: Showroom Sales Executive
What does a typical day look like in your job?
“My colleagues and I start the day by cleaning the showroom. This includes hoovering, mopping and wiping down all basins, baths, shower trays and mirrors. After this I’ll go through my open orders to check that everything is on track and then determine which customer quotes need to be followed up with a phone call, noting these down.
“When customers come in throughout the day I’ll guide them around the showroom, highlighting some of the items and deals that match what they’ve been discussing with me. I’ll then create a quote based on what they’re looking for.
“As well as this, I also take some time each day to design bathroom layouts for any customers who have requested these. Throughout the day we also take calls from existing customers, as well as providing updates on deliveries, checking stock and processing orders.”
Showroom Sales Executive, Alison McBride.
What are the key skills needed for your job role?
“In my job as Showroom Sales Executive, communication skills are key for interacting with customers effectively, as well as being a good salesperson, so I can promote products and close deals. Being knowledgeable about our products is also essential, so I can provide accurate information and recommendations to customers, while good organisational skills are important for managing customer enquiries and orders efficiently.
“I would also add that having a customer-focused approach and being able to work well in a team is central to my role.”
What’s the most interesting part of your job?
“For me, the most interesting art of my job is interacting with a diverse range of customers and helping them bring the vision for their ideal bathroom to life. I enjoy learning about different design preferences, lifestyles and needs, as well as using my knowledge to guide customers towards the best products and solutions for them. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in bathroom design also keeps the job dynamic and engaging.”
How did you get into this role? (What was your previous job?)
“My last role was as a supervisor in New Look, so I was used to being in a customer-facing environment. However, I wanted to move into a more involved customer service role and at Bathshack, I feel like my work directly benefits people by helping them create their dream bathroom.”
What’s the most useful piece of advice you’ve ever been given – and who gave it?
“My parents always told me to treat others how you would want to be treated yourself.”
How would you describe yourself in three words?
“Caring, happy and friendly.”
What’s something you’ve accomplished (personal or professional) that you’re really proud of?
“Effectively leading a team to accomplish goals is what I would describe as my professional accomplishment, while a personal accomplishment would be that I can play violin and guitar.”
What motivates you in your personal and/or professional life?
“Making a positive impact and the desire to succeed – for myself and my family – are my motivators.”
How do you wind down after the working day and at the weekends?
“To wind down I enjoy going on walks, spending time with my family, going to the gym, dining out, watching movies and listening to music.”
Do you have any pets and if so, what do you have?
“I have a nine-month-old Shih-tzu called Misty.”
If you had to pick a favourite Bathshack product to add to your bathroom, what would you choose?
“I love the 1200mm Kingsbury Vanity Unit in Shadow Grey. It has a modern vintage feel and is a really impressive feature in a bathroom.”