Alan Bell is a client onboarding specialist in Orange County, where he helps home professionals to set up and maximize their experience with Houzz Pro. Alan is also an Army Veteran, and we would like to take a moment this Veteran’s Day, to thank him — and all those who have served their country — for their service. When he’s not working, you’ll find Alan playing the cello or hanging out with his five-year old son, Matty, and their pup, Mishka. 

What do you do at Houzz?
I am a client onboarding specialist so I work closely with home professionals who have signed up for the Houzz Pro business and project management software, to ensure that they’re getting the most from the platform. 

Have you always been in this role?
Originally, I was a sales development representative, helping to spread the word about Houzz to home professionals. I’ve recently transitioned to become a client onboarding specialist, so I get to go a step further with pros to help them maximize their experience with Houzz Pro in order to run a more efficient and profitable business. 

How did your career choices influence where you are today?
I joined the military right out of high school as a combat medic. While I was in the reserves, I also worked as a design consultant and started every morning by going through Houzz to catch up on the latest design trends over a cup of coffee. I found it to be a great resource for educating myself on the latest trends and interesting projects in the industry. 

When I got out of the military, I created my five-year plan and the goal was to join Houzz. I worked for a few other companies to gain experience and build up my resume and when I found an opportunity to apply to Houzz, I jumped at it. I love this company. 

What do you enjoy most about Houzz?
It’s right there in our core values: “We are a family.” It’s important to me and I hadn’t felt that type of focus from other companies since I was in the military. It’s also a really fun environment and I can’t see myself working anywhere else. 

Has anything surprised you about working at Houzz?
Sales roles in many organizations can be extremely independent and competitive, but I was surprised at how much Houzz cares for their employees. Managers really have their fellow Houzzers’ backs. The training we receive is also very helpful. My teammates come from many backgrounds, but we’re all set up for success because of the guidance and training provided. 

What is your favorite Houzz Pro feature?
I have always enjoyed the Pro Spotlight, where we get to know more about home professionals’ lives and businesses. It’s what originally drew me to Houzz. I also think that if Houzz Pro had existed when I was younger, I would have become an interior designer because it has everything I’d need to set up and run a successful business. 

What does Veteran’s Day mean to you?
Veteran’s Day is special for me because many of my family members have been in the military. My grandfather was a colonel in the Army and his war stories inspired me to find a way to enlist and help others. My family put their lives on the line and I appreciate that we take the time to recognize that. 

What do you recommend that people do to recognize Veteran’s Day?
People serve in the military because there is a greater cause, but if you find out that someone is a Veteran, just share your thanks. It’s as simple as that.