Meet Alan Cook, Client Technology Advisor

S-NET’s Client Technology Advisor, Alan Cook likes good movies, unique pets and great technology that helps businesses grow and thrive. Alan is excited about the opportunity to get to know his clients and provide them with customized technology solutions. Read on to get to know him better and find out what kind of pet Elliot is.

How long have you been with S-NET?

I joined the team almost a year ago, in November of 2018. With a fast-growing client base, S-NET needed a new Client Technology Advisor to ensure that all customers are well taken care of. So they brought me on board to provide customers with the personalized care that is at the core of S-NET’s business.

What made you choose this career path?

I originally started off on a different trajectory, studying Political Science, History and Psychology in college. But after I graduated, I became interested in technology. I worked selling, designing, and supervising the installation of high-end home theater systems, and held various sales, account management and customer service positions for companies such Avaya, Chase and CDW. Throughout the years, I worked with different clients to deploy technology and I gained the skills that I use at S-NET every day.

What are your primary responsibilities at S-NET?

My main objective is making sure we have happy, long-term customers. I like working with clients to overcome the technical challenges that have a negative impact on their business. I think that a great telephone system is the lifeblood of any organization, but most people don’t understand how to maximize its capabilities to benefit their operation. I am here to help our customers take advantage of their services, utilize their features fully, and I serve as a single point of contact for all of their needs.

What do you like most about your work?

I really enjoy getting to know our customers and their organizations individually.  With these insights, I can provide customized and unique solutions that fit their specific needs, not just a one-size fits all product. No two businesses are alike, and neither are their technical needs.

Everyone at S-NET puts the customer first and is always eager to do anything they can to say “yes” to a customer request, even if it means breaking new ground or a few rules along the way.  Phrases like, “That’s not my job” or “We won’t do that for them” never get used around here.

Are there things you find challenging?

Talking about technical subjects can be challenging. But I have gained a lot of experience explaining advanced technology to my clients in a way that they can understand.

How has S-NET helped you grow as a professional/engineer/etc.?

Working with complex phone systems allows me to improve my problem solving and analytical skills, which I love.

Are there any exciting plans are you looking forward to?

In the short time that I’ve been with S-NET, we’ve grown a lot.  In the near future, we will be moving into a new office with more space, including room for future growth.  That is exciting!

How do you like to spend your free time?

In the evening, I usually listen to music, watch a film, enjoy a Cubs game, or read a book. I really enjoy cinema, from the masterpieces of Alfred Hitchcock to the latest Star Wars movies and everything in between. I consider myself fortunate to be able to watch them in my own home with world-class picture and sound. Our family recently moved into our first home, and creating a great space for cinema was definitely a priority.

What is one thing most of your coworkers and S-NET clients don’t know about you?

I have a Holland Lop rabbit named Elliot. He is 200 pounds of personality stuffed into a 6 pound ball of fur.  He is more than just a cute face – underestimate his intelligence at your peril!