Supporting the front lines as the linchpin of the team: ASNOVA's pride in its professional front-line operations.

Q. What are the main tasks of a day at Equipment Center?

My main duties include receiving and shipping goods, entering data into inventory management sheets, placing orders with suppliers, and answering phone calls. The center opens at 8:00 AM, and as soon as that time the phones start ringing and trucks picking up equipment begin to move. I'm usually at my desk by 7:50 AM, ready to answer customer inquiries.

We handle about 10 phone calls a day, and on busy days, we have 10 to 15 trucks visiting the yard. In addition to handling orders received by phone, fax, and email, we also handle customer service, inventory management, and data entry. After receiving an order, the basic process is to check the inventory in the database, transcribe it into an order form, and then pass it on to the yard staff.

Q. What is the most nerve-wracking aspect of managing incoming and outgoing goods?

We carefully check the types and quantities of equipment received from customers multiple times to avoid mistakes, and we are mindful of how to communicate appropriately to the yard staff. scaffolding There are many types of materials, and even a single mistake can interfere with assembly on site. The front desk is the first to receive the order, so we cannot afford to make a mistake here.

When taking orders over the phone, I put the caller on hold to check the inventory in the database before calling them back. This sometimes makes the hold a little longer, but I believe accuracy is more important than speed.

Q. Is there anything in particular you keep in mind when performing front desk duties?

Since my work involves interacting with others, I make a conscious effort to create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable asking questions and talking to me. I always try to be cheerful and smiling.

Many of our customers are very busy with their work on-site. When interacting with them, I make a conscious effort to remain calm during the conversation, because if I become flustered, I think it will only make them more flustered. In some cases, I may even offer them a drink to help them take a breather. I believe that my own composure contributes to the composure of others.

Q. What did you find difficult when you first joined the company?

My previous job was as a receptionist at a chiropractic clinic, so I had some experience with reception work itself. However, because it was a different industry, the types and volume of documents I handled were completely different. There were so many documents piled up on my desk—purchase orders, delivery slips, invoices, etc.—and at first I was confused, not knowing things like, "When is this used?" or "What is this document for?"

At such times, the ones who supported me were Center Manager Hirata and Ai Matsuo, the front desk staff at Saga Tosu Center. Center Manager Hirata was always by my side and spoke to me, and Matsuo kept video calls connected, so if I didn't understand something, I could ask immediately and work accordingly. Even from afar, having someone by my side through the screen was very reassuring.

Q. Please tell us about a moment when you feel a sense of fulfillment.

I feel a sense of fulfillment when customers say "thank you" or "you were a great help." It's only a short time during loading and unloading, but those words are a great source of support for me.

scaffolding The staff may seem a bit difficult at first glance, but when you actually talk to them, they are all friendly and very kind.

Q. If you have your own sense of professionalism, please tell us about it.

I believe that being a professional means understanding both the front desk and the yard before starting work. Simply receiving and relaying orders is like playing telephone. If you understand the names and uses of the equipment, you can verify that the order is truly correct while you're working.

At first, I didn't understand anything, so I worked hard by looking at the scaffolding lumber catalog and actively participated in yard inventory work. It's easier to remember when you see the actual items with your own eyes. I'm still learning, but I want to become someone who knows both the front desk and the yard.

Q. How do you view the role of the front desk in Equipment Center?

I believe the front desk acts as the link between ASNOVA and our customers. Since various information, such as order details and inventory status, often passes through the front desk, it's crucial to convey this information accurately and without error. Any discrepancies in information can cause problems not only for our customers but also for the company.

The scope of work is broad and there's a lot to learn, but I also find it very rewarding. I approach my daily tasks with the awareness that each action I take contributes to the company's evaluation.

Q. Finally, do you have a message for those considering joining our company?

I think it's suitable for those who want to actively take on new challenges and are interested in new things. Before joining, I had absolutely zero knowledge of scaffolding, but after joining, the equipment and center work became increasingly interesting. At first, the work is unfamiliar and can be anxious, but you will definitely learn it, and there is an environment where you can receive solid support from those around you. I hope you look forward and take the first step with confidence.