It was 2013, and Alex Hriz hated his job. But his luck was about to change.
A Marine in Alex’s reserve unit told him about how much he loved working at a company called Little Guys Movers, and Alex applied right away.
It’s been almost a decade since that day, and Alex is still a Little Guy. In fact, he rose in the ranks to become the Fayetteville Branch Manager. He credits his ambition and commitment to the company culture.
“It was just a bunch of friends hanging out, and we happened to be moving furniture,” says Alex. “It made it hard to ever want to leave.”
This is a sentiment you hear a lot in the LGM offices. Because the truth is, Little Guys Movers is so much more than just a place to work. For many, it becomes a fulfilling, lifelong career.
Q&A with Alex Hriz
How did you begin your career with Little Guys Movers?
A Marine in my reserve unit told me about how great it was to work here. I was very unhappy with my current job, so I applied in May 2013.
Tell us about the process of growing your career with LGM.
I was promoted by accepting the Operations Director position at Little Guys Movers in Wilmington, NC. After 14 months there, I was selected for the Manager position at my home store in Fayetteville, AR.
When it comes to advancing with Little Guys Movers, I think it’s not so much a question of what sets someone apart, but what we do as a whole. Even on days off I’d swing by the shop to chat, go hiking the Buffalo River Trail with co-workers, a group of us would go floating the Illinois River on a day off, or we’d have a company Super Smash Bros tournament on the N64. It’s not about the individual. Little Guys is a family.
Why should someone consider a career with Little Guys?
You should consider this career because of how you’re treated and the excellent work environment. It’s about people and it starts at the upper echelons of management. Everyone is treated with respect and given the benefit of the doubt. The amount of care, love, and compassion that’s poured out from the owners makes it really easy to pass on to my employees because the example has already been set.
And it’s the fellowship. Being part of a company with people spread across the country that are eager to help in a moment’s notice. Being treated as an equal. Seeing that hard work is recognized and rewarded.
What is your advice for someone who is interested in climbing the ladder at LGM?
You’re going to get out of your experience what you put in. Learn the person’s job who is above you. You will get an opportunity to show what you know and when you do, rise to the occasion. It’s not rocket surgery. If you want to learn it, you will, but it needs to be done right.