Each month, we have the distinct pleasure of interviewing one of our fantastic employees for our blog. We most recently sat down with Erin Klauder, Director of Client Development, who started as a project manager with Cint over six and a half years ago. Find out more about her below, including her affinity for rabbits and her proudest accomplishment (it might surprise you!).
What’s a typical ‘day in the life as a Director of Client Development?
A typical day for me includes speaking with clients on new projects and monitoring in-field studies. Also, I spend time seeking new companies to collaborate with so that we can grow our businesses together.
What are you passionate about when it comes to your job?
People. I love to learn about the journey that others have made into the market research world, how they are innovating, and what they are working on. This goes for both my clients and my colleagues. Some of my favorite things include collaborating with my team and meeting new people in our industry. When it comes to my focus in my daily work – I always want the projects to go well, and I also never want to let anyone down.
What kind of music do you listen to while you are working?
If I do listen to music while I’m working, it’s usually EDM [electronic dance music] or something where the beat of the music is fast and uplifting to help me get into my sparkly Cint bubble.
What is the best way to start the day?
Since all the changes that have come with COVID-19, I’ve been enjoying starting the day with Yoga. It’s great for the mind and body, and it helps to set an intention for the day. I even convinced my husband to join me! Back when I was commuting regularly to the office, I would always listen to a market research related podcast on the bus.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you aren’t working?
In the warmer summer months, I love to go to the Jersey Shore. I can spend the entire day at the beach or just floating in the bay.
Do you have any pets?
I have an English Bulldog named Melo. He has such as funny personality and has been a great co-worker this past year.
What do you hope never changes?
My waistline. 😉
What animal do you identify with and why?
A rabbit, because they are beautiful and quick! Anyone that knows me knows I have very little patience. As a kid, I was very involved in 4H. My rabbit, Dude, won best of breed. Now at my house, I have a wild rabbit that lives in my yard and I named him Sunflower. They are just all around me!
Where is the most interesting place you’ve been?
Capri, Italy. When we arrived, we climbed to the top for the most breath-taking views and vibrant colors.
What is something you will NEVER do again?
Skydiving! I jumped out of a plane 15,000 feet high. I remember the instructor tapping me on the shoulder at 5,000 feet saying we’re going 10,000 feet higher with a smile on his face. I was never more terrified. I’m happy I did it, but I will find my adrenalin rush another way in the future.
If you could live in any period of history when would it be and why?
I would go back to the 60s so I could go to Woodstock! Everyone had fun and just wanted to live in peace.
Do you have a quote/statement in life you tend to follow?
“Inhale the confidence, exhale the doubt.” This was repeated in a few Peloton classes I took, and it helped me on the bike. Then I started to say it to myself in life during any situation where I felt nervous or when I just needed a vibe check.
Why did you decide to do the work you are doing now?
I moved into sales because I wanted to challenge myself, grow my presentation skills, and put myself in situations that previously felt uncomfortable to me. I also felt with my project management background I could give the customer a different experience.
If you could share a meal with any 4 individuals, living or dead, who would they be?
Marilyn Monroe, Jennifer Lopez, Abraham Lincoln & Leonardo DiCaprio
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Receiving my black belt was one of my proudest accomplishments and people always are surprised that I am a black belt when I tell them.
Connect with me on Linkedin, here.
