Appliances Online in the early days
January 3rd, 2012
Helen Huynh is a Content Producer for Appliances Online, and today marks her 4 year anniversary with the company. Back in 2008 Helen was the 8th person to join the team – now we employ over 90 staff! We caught up with Helen to find out how Appliances Online has grown and changed since its humble beginnings:
What was it like in the early days of AOL?
“I had just moved up from Wollongong after studying Digital Media (Website Design) and went for my second interview in Sydney and Appliances Online took me on board.
“Head office was back in Silverwater alongside with people from Winning Appliances. It was empty and dusty as Winnings had just moved there themselves. I was kind of scared as it wasn’t far from Silverwater gaol and I was taking public transport with people who just visited the jail.” (!)
Can you remember your first day?
“First day my table was next to the bathroom. There were times where Hoddo (one of our salesmen) didn’t close the bathroom door and I walked in haha! I moved about 7 times around the office after that.
“At the time I was 20 years old, probably about the 8th person (making me the baby) to join Appliances Online…. and because the dress code was smart casual, it took me about two weeks to figure out who the boss was.
“Work started off quiet but then I started to notice that phone calls were picking up fast. Even I had to be a sales person at times!”
How has the company changed since 2008?
“Back then everyone’s role was very open – you helped out wherever you could. Over the years as the team has grown there been more planning and definition into everyone’s role. For example, I was doing magazine ads and truck designs (designer wasn’t part of my role – I winged it all).”
What are your favourite things about working for Appliances Online?
“The environment – laid back, freedom, fast pace and constant change. That hasn’t changed in the 4 years I’ve been here.
“Also, it was only my first year at this job and AOL let me go back and study I.T. Project Management. I was working 4 days a week and studying one day.
“And there’s unlimited coffee!”
What has been the highlight of your career?
“Watching the website grow and become more formalised. Knowing how much I’ve contributed towards the content and design.
“Uploading over 4000+ products to the site and Photoshopping over 20,000+ files which meant more sales.”
What do you think is in store for AOL in 2012?
“Another year of growth and change. We are only going to expand!”
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