.png)
EXPLORE JONATHAN LOUIS PRODUCTS
By Collection
By Product
The Next Generation:
Adriana Luna
Whether it's a new grad just starting out, a dedicated mid-career-er changing paths or leaders looking to advance, we are committed to helping the next generation of talent reach their goals. Many of our team members have created unique career paths at Jonathan Louis, and in this series, we celebrate their stories and growth. Interested in a similar opportunity? We always have our door open for future talent—check out our Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor for availabilities.
This week, we talk to Adriana Luna, Customer Service Lead who started working with us at Jonathan Louis in December of 2021. She came to us from the dental field as an office manager. This is her experience so far:
What did you want to do when you grew up?
I wanted to create! When I was a child, I didn’t want the typical Barbie Dolls–my wish list consisted of Crayons, markers, and paints. Don’t be fooled though! I can’t draw for the life of me, even if I love creating with color.
How did you come to work in JL?
I was an office manager and social media marketing person for a dental office. I managed the office and helped them with patient retainment and recruitment of new patients. I set up all of their social platforms, worked on marketing referral cards, and designed their company logo. However, I didn't feel challenged, and there was no room for growth.
The pandemic really affected my career. A lot of employees at our company were working from home. I was not, and because of this I was quarantined in my office at work. There was no social interaction. I knew it was time to look for something better, and browsing on Indeed, I came across an entry level position at Jonathan Louis. Monica (Luna, from the scheduling department) has been working here for about 10 years and I have not once heard her say anything negative about JL. I reached out to her, she instructed me to apply on my own, in her words “Just apply, you are more than qualified and I know they will call you.”
What sold the deal? During the interview I asked Brandee (Reyes, Customer Service Manager), “what is your biggest pet peeve when it comes to your team?” Her response: “a lack of honesty, I’m very understanding and I don’t appreciate the run around or being lied to.” This is the moment I knew that my values aligned with Brandee’s, and with the company values.
What type of things do you normally work on at JL?
Where do I begin? Mostly order entry, although I prioritize improving processes and procedures to ensure accurate and timely processing. I’ve made a lot of changes along the way, working closely with other departments. Especially IT, they have been a tremendous help.
Did you have a mentor (at JL or elsewhere)?
Brandee has been a huge part of any of my accomplishments. I started here at JL not thinking much of it, assuming that I was just going to be another number. Brandee took the time to get to know who I was and what I was looking for in a career. She saw skills that weren’t being utilized, and that’s how my current position was born. She encourages me to be me—to ask questions, to push back, and to be confident.
Rapid Fire
What song can you listen to on repeat?
"Everlong" by Foo Fighters
What is your essential if you're stuck on an island?
A spear
If you could be fluent in any other language which would it be?
Sign language
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?
Nachos
Describe yourself in one word.
Fearless
What’s something people take seriously but shouldn’t?
Other people's opinions. They're just that, an opinion. Not facts.
Who’s your role model?
My grandmother
What's your biggest pet peeve?
Not putting the cap back on the toothpaste
3 things you can't live without.
Coffee, music, and my babies!
What have you accomplished here that you’re most proud of?
I’m most proud of my team! When I first started at JL, Customer Service and Data Entry felt as if they were two separate departments. We have come together as one and are working as a team. Tracy (Santos, Customer Service Representative) has been a big help collaborating with our MX data entry team. Whenever I come across a barrier, Tracy is there to help. We have all come together as one (and I definitely did not do this all by myself).
How has JL supported you in career development?
There is no limit to knowledge. There is always something new to learn which is great for me as I'm a curious bird. No matter the questions I ask, every department leader and their team members has taken the time to answer my questions. I’m involved in additional training and meetings. My current role did not exist when I was hired; I am so grateful to Jonathan Louis for my promotion as it was a huge opportunity.
Rollin' deep!
Do you take advantage of any of the benefits offered by JL?
All the benefits! Well, except the gym. Unfortunately, once my son started kindergarten I was unable to attend the morning sessions, but I’ll be back soon enough. I love the snack program; it’s very convenient for a busy mom. I don’t have to worry about my own mid-day snacks. I signed up for pet insurance for my French bulldog and his first vet appointment is tomorrow!
How would you describe the company culture? How does management support the employees?
By far the best company culture I have been a part of. I will say, joining the Social Club last year was a BLAST. I was able to meet so many great people and hear their stories of working at JL. I appreciate the company prioritizing company culture.
I ❤ JL Social Club!
What are your next career steps—in the next year? In 3 years?
I have been very vocal about my desire to learn more about our product, and the marketing portion that goes hand-in-hand with sample order entry. I would also love to be able to attend High Point Market. Jonathan Louis gave me an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, I know this opportunity won’t be my last. I look forward to the future of the company.
What are you doing outside of JL to move forward on your career path?
TED Talks (the podcasts) are a huge part of shaping my mind, the way I think and the way I approach situations, and colleagues. Once my personal schedule opens up, I will be looking at what additional college courses I can take to further my career.
The concentration game
