Resource 1:1 with Emily McCleery

At Resource 1, we’ve spent years building a tight knit team of exceptional humans. Our Resource 1:1 interviews are a fun opportunity to provide a snapshot into the lives and interests of our team members. This week, we’re introducing Emily McCleery, Account Manager at Resource 1. Emily is responsible for identifying business opportunities, interfacing with clients, and building relationships. Read on to learn more about her!

How did you find yourself at Resource 1?

A recruiter reached out to me and asked if I was interested in technology. I said yes, I love tech, and this was a job I knew I had to interview for. I initially met with a handful of people on the team—Rachel, Marcy, and Jim Gardner—and I returned a second day for a six-hour interview with Anastasia. After my challenging interview with Anastasia, I knew I could be successful at Resource 1.

What do you love the most about working at Resource 1?

The snacks! But really, it’s the people—it’s great to work alongside the Resource 1 team. I also enjoy the challenge of the work. It’s not an easy job calling people all day, but it’s so rewarding when I get to speak with someone who’s responsive and engaged.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I was a very practical child! When I was young, my parents went to a local grocery store in Quincy, Illinois, that had a daycare. I loved hanging out there while my mom shopped! And while most kids dream of being a doctor or a ballerina, I wanted to own a business—specifically a grocery store with a daycare in it!

What’s a hobby of yours that few people know about?

I love to golf, especially with my dad and brothers.

If you had a superpower what would it be and how would you use it?

Definitely flight. I would fly everywhere. I’d fly across Chicago, into the mountains, to beaches, the coast of California. Maybe even Italy if I could fly that far.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

My aunt gave me a card that said, “now is the time of your life to have the time of your life.” I still have that card pinned up in my office. Basically, enjoy every moment, don’t get caught up in the past or thinking about the future. Life is short!

If you could live anywhere, where would it be?

I grew up in central Illinois, and—again, as a practical person—I always wanted to live in Chicago. I’m now in the Chicago suburbs, so I’m getting closer to the city! I just love the lake and the architecture and the city life. However, I don’t love the winters. I’d live in Naples, Florida, in the winter if I could!

What was your first job?

Well, I don’t want to say babysitting, because that’s everyone’s first job! But my first real job where I had to sign documents was as a cashier at a grocery store—ShopCo, which back in the day was like a Target.

What could someone find you doing on a Saturday?

Sleeping in for sure! But then I often go visit my brother Ted and see his family, have a campfire, and just hang out. I’m always doing different things!

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

Skydiving. I always wanted to do it. It was a friend’s birthday and I loved it. I would do it again. It’s something I’ll never forget. I’m sharing a photo of me after I had jumped out of the plane!

What would you do if you won the lottery?

I’d give some money to my parents and siblings. Then I’d buy the nicest condo in Chicago right on the lake, as well as a beach house in Naples, Florida! I’d start my own business—a grocery store with a daycare! And then I’d give some money back to my high school and college, as well as the Animal Rescue Foundation (A.R.F.), which is an organization that fosters dogs rescued from kill shelters and is where I adopted my dog Hazel from.

What’s the last picture you took on your phone?

A photo of my dog, Hazel. She’s wearing a blanket in the picture!

Emily, thank you so much for sharing a sneak peek into your life outside of Resource 1! We appreciate all your hard work.

Learn more about Emily and get in touch with her here.