The daily ebb and flow of customers at Metro Building Products in Marietta, Georgia, means that sometimes there’s a rush of contractors and builders. Metro Inside Sales Representative Alan Carmichael knows that for those professionals, time is money—so he helps them get their building materials as quickly as possible.
To get customers back to their job sites as soon as he can, Carmichael sometimes not only takes their orders at the counter; he’ll also hop on a forklift and load their materials himself. Recently, one of Carmichael’s customers shared this: “I wanted to let you know just what a great experience we have working directly with Alan. Last year we used Metro FAR more than any other outdoor supplier. As you know, we have a number of options in the area. The prices are competitive, but quick sale pickup is often a challenge. If not for Alan, we likely would look elsewhere in many cases. I consider Alan a valued partner who helps me every way he can, from all the qualities above, to even jumping on a forklift to get an order moving. His efforts do not go unnoticed by me.”
Because of that review and his track record of hustle and commitment to customer service, Carmichael received the January Above & Beyond Award.
The Above & Beyond Award is given to employees of Metro Building Products, Spahn & Rose and Dunn Lumber for outstanding customer service and significant contributions to their team. Carmichael and other monthly winners of the award receive a $100 Visa gift card and are eligible to be named Employee of the Year, which includes a $1,000 award.
Spahn & Rose, Dunn Lumber and Metro Building Products employees can be nominated for the monthly Above & Beyond Award by coworkers, supervisors and customers. When a customer submits a review, any employees mentioned are nominated for the honor. Customers can also nominate employees for Above & Beyond through Spahn & Rose’s social media channels, including Metro’s Facebook page or Spahn & Rose’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts.
“Alan is very personable and flexible, able to help customers quickly,” says Greg Couch, General Manager of Metro Building Products. “On a day-to-day basis, he’s always there for customers and is really good at following up.”
Carmichael has worked for Metro Building Products for two years. He started as a Material Handler in the lumberyard and after six months became an Inside Sales Representative.
“It feels good to provide customers fast, great service,” Carmichael says. “I definitely enjoy helping out customers and getting building materials for them fast.” One example: When customers have requested specialty fasteners that aren’t usually in stock, Carmichael has made special trips, sometimes on his lunch break, to track down the needed parts.
In his off time, Carmichael enjoys the outdoors, including kayaking, hiking and playing golf, along with watching his children play sports.