My Name Is Michael Bruner — This is Why I Joined Aha!

I have no patience for problems. Let me give you an example. The direction my closet door swung open really bugged me. So I removed it, installed it the other way around, and even built new shelving to maximize the space. Could I have waited to hire someone to change it? Sure. But I was determined to figure it out myself — both for the knowledge I gained about basic carpentry and the satisfaction of making it right.

My tenacity for solving problems extends into every aspect of my life, but especially at work.

During college, I worked for a technology company that specialized in medical content. I analyzed customer issues and worked with product teams to resolve them. My swift problem-solving skills eventually propelled me into a more senior support position. I spent the next two years traveling all over the United States teaching customers how to use the product.

I then moved on to a product management position at a life sciences company. Soon after starting, I found a few inconsistencies with the company's customer-facing applications and taught myself how to reconcile the issues. In just a few years, I became a group product manager overseeing all of the company's internal digital marketing solutions.

Immediately after stepping into the role, I noticed problems with the way we captured product strategy across teams. And I knew we could do better. That is when I found Aha! and quickly became a power user. I used Aha! to build visual roadmaps, set program reporting standards, and ultimately deliver great products. And I often referred to the Aha! blog and guide content to expand my product management skills.

So when it came time for me to look for my next career opportunity, Aha! was top of mind. Not only was I impressed with the product, but I also admired the company's values. I loved that Aha! was dedicated to improving how companies build products. And everything I read about The Responsive Method (TRM) resonated with me.

I was eager to join a nimble organization that valued solving problems fast — Aha! was the perfect fit.

I applied as soon as I saw an opening. Given what I knew about TRM, I was hopeful I would hear back quickly. But I never expected to receive an email to schedule an interview the next morning. The interview process moved fast, and I joined the Customer Success team within a few short weeks.

My relentless drive to fix problems is now put to use more than ever. I love going deep on the most advanced functionality we offer, such as custom worksheets and custom tables. I use this knowledge every day to dig into new and different challenges that our customers face.

I am grateful to be surrounded by colleagues who share my persistence to find the best possible solutions to help our customers succeed.

I also appreciate the benefits of working remotely. I get almost two hours back in my day now that I no longer have a commute. With two young children, that time is invaluable. And I have more time to focus on goals outside of work, from DIY home projects to getting in more exercise. I even ran my personal best 5K this year.

It is cliché to say that patience is a virtue. But for me impatience is a strength too. It has helped me grow as a person and pushes me to always learn new things. And at Aha! I get to put my problem-solving skills front and center in everything I do.

That is why I joined Aha! — and why you should too.