In the next instalment of our series of interviews with agents and reps across the furnishings industry, we spoke with Max Longmuir, who shares an insight into his role and being a new face in the industry.
Meet Max
I’m currently an agent for Welcome Furniture and I work with my dad on both Buoyant Upholstery and Dura Beds. I started out full time in September last year, only a couple months after leaving school, so I am still very much new to it all!
What drew you into the life of an agent/rep and what’s the day-to-day like?
Since being a young lad, I used to love going on the show vans and spending days out on the road with my dad. During my last year of school, I got more involved. I loved the thrill of the sale, the freedom it offered and the fulfilment from the relationships created – this is what drew me into this career of being an agent. The day-to-day can vary – which I love too. Whether it’s starting the morning with a one-hundred-mile drive or sending in some orders and making some phone calls, it’s always non-stop, even when its quiet!
What is the best part of your role?
The best part of my role so far has been the relationships I’m beginning to make. Since starting in the industry so many customers have been so lovely, patient and kind. I also love getting a nice big order – who wouldn’t! The manufacturers have also been so kind and supportive which has been great.
What is the most difficult?
The most difficult part of my role so far has been overcoming quiet spells and lack of footfall with customers. As situations in the world change, we have to change and adapt too, so understanding and getting used to this has been difficult but proved possible.
Do you have any particular highlights so far?
A highlight so far has been when customers have called me instead of my dad when placing an order. Myself, my dad and the customer all have a good laugh about it and it highlights further how lovely almost everyone has been in this industry.
What challenges do you think currently face agents/reps?
The current challenges agents/reps face is uncertainty in the market due to global factors which seems to making the public nervous too which can make trade difficult.
What would you like to see change?
It would be nice to see some more young agents/reps getting into the industry too.
What would help agents/reps more?
Less traffic, more lanes on the A1!
What would you say to someone considering becoming an agent/rep?
I’d say go for it. Since finishing school, many of my friends started university while I went down quite a different path in their eyes. Since starting however, I have thoroughly enjoyed it, made friends and done well – so I would advise anyone else considering this career to go for it and take on the challenge.
What is the most important attribute to have as an agent/rep and why?
The most important attribute to have as an agent is good listening skills to find out what your customer wants and to be able to build trust and credibility.
Can you share something that irritates you the most as an agent/rep?
Thankfully I’m still in this golden period where not much irritates me. Maybe when people ignore my emails!
Can you share an insight into your plans for the year ahead?
My plans for the year ahead are to carry on learning, going out and building relationships and continuing to grow the business.
What’s the next big thing you are seeing in the industry and why?
The next big thing I’m seeing is more innovation in designs and more outgoing designs, which is always great to see.
Final thought…
I would like to add a massive thank you to Welcome Furniture, Buoyant Upholstery, Dura Beds, and most importantly, my mum (Alex) and my dad (Paul) for all their guidance as veterans of the industry.
maxfurnitureagencies@hotmail.com / www.linkedin.com/in/max-l-3a825b1b7/
