Interview Series – Stephanie Markese, Client & Carrier
What’s the biggest lesson you learned from the pandemic?
The biggest thing I learned is that we truly can work anywhere! It has allowed us to hire great people without being tied down to specific areas which have been a great asset to our company.
Communication is a huge part of your role. How do you manage to always be out front and in control?
Ha! I wish I was always in control – some days definitely get the best of me! Our goal in the Client & Carrier Services department here at Candor is to provide information before it is asked of us. While I believe we do a fantastic job with that & I can say wholeheartedly that everyone on this team does their very best, at the end of the day we really can only do one thing at a time. That is something I always remind myself & my team. So, no matter how busy we are or how overwhelming some days can get – just tackle one thing at a time & we will always make it through! And if you need to step away, step away! Sometimes that 5-minute breather can make a world of difference!
What has been the biggest challenge for your clients? Carriers?
I think just having to adapt to all the changes with everything has been a challenge for everyone. At the beginning of this pandemic, everything was shut down, but freight still needed to move! On top of that, this pandemic has brought to light how much people want to be paid what they are worth which unfortunately drove costs up all around. So, finding ways around that and finding drivers willing to even haul freight was a challenge & still can be to this day.
What’s your best advice to clients? Carriers?
Patience & Understanding. Right now, pretty much everyone is understaffed – so places we go to regularly where we used to be in & out can sometimes take hours before we are helped. It’s super frustrating for all involved but I think it’s important to remember that we are all doing our best. At least you want to believe that is the case!
What’s your favorite quote?
(The devil is in the detail) “Don’t deliver a product, deliver an experience” – Unknown
How would you describe the value at Candor Expedite and why is it unique?
Our name literally means “the quality of being open & honest in the expression”. I am so grateful to work for a company that values transparency and honesty. In this industry – anything can happen, and it does! I say all the time that logistics & transportation keep you on your toes as no two days are ever the same. It’s inevitable that something will go wrong at some point. So being able to be fully transparent with our customers is something that makes Candor so unique. We are always straightforward and honest & are constantly working on ways to improve & go above and beyond for customers.