The Humans of smrtPhone
Our “smrtie of the Month” is a tech-savvy, problem-solving prankster, enthusiastic about finding solutions for smrtPhone customers.
Name
Radu Anghel
Title / Role in the Company
As a member of Technical Support, I manage and oversee all tickets escalated from the Support team, ensuring that issues are resolved efficiently and effectively.
Since the Support team has already performed initial troubleshooting, my first step is to thoroughly review the ticket, analyzing all provided details and examples. To gain a deeper understanding, I also review relevant conversations in our chat program. By consolidating this information, I work to identify the root cause of the problem.
Once I have a clear understanding, I perform tests, attempt to reproduce the issue, and apply any necessary fixes within my capacity. If I successfully resolve the issue, I close the ticket and inform the Support team of the resolution.
For more complex tickets that require deeper investigation or input, I collaborate closely with our Development team. Although I don’t have direct access to the code, I leverage our strong working relationship to ask the necessary questions and receive prompt, insightful answers that help drive solutions forward.
Ultimately, my role is to ensure that every issue is addressed with diligence and that the team and the client receive a timely, effective resolution.
How long have you worked for smrtPhone?
November 2023
What’s your background?
All of my technical expertise stems from my hobbies and passions. My curiosity and enthusiasm for technology made learning feel effortless. At the age of 16, I developed a strong interest in computers and networking, quickly becoming the go-to person for family and friends whenever they faced technical issues. Whether the challenges were technical or mechanical, I gained hands-on experience and built a solid foundation of knowledge.
My professional journey began when I was hired as a sales agent for a phone company. After a year, I transitioned to a security company, where I specialized in installing and configuring security systems, fire systems, and automated systems. I became deeply skilled in these areas, building expertise that served me well.
Following that, I returned to the phone company, this time in a different department, where I worked as a fiber optic engineer for nearly two years. From there, I took on a new challenge at a medical clinic, stepping into the role of Maintenance Team Leader. I oversaw the upkeep of the building, managed the equipment, IT networks, and systems, and even handled occasional administrative tasks. It was a demanding role with constant challenges, particularly during two major flood emergencies, which required quick thinking and decisive action to keep operations running smoothly.
Throughout my career, I stayed connected with people at smrtPhone and consistently heard great things about the company. I kept an eye on opportunities, and when this position was created, I seized the chance to join the team. It felt like the perfect step forward, combining my technical expertise and problem-solving skills with a company I admired.
What was your first job?
My first job was during high school, thanks to one of my aunts who worked for a regional telecom company. At the time, the company was offering free proprietary mobile phones to customers, and she brought me, my brother, and my cousins on board to help deliver them. It wasn’t an official job—it was all arranged through her—but we worked incredibly hard.
I’d go straight from school to work and stay until 11 p.m. every night. We were responsible for delivering around 1,000 phones a day, and despite the long hours and the demanding pace, we got it done. It was my first real experience with hard work, commitment, and teamwork.
What do you like about working for smrtPhone?
I really enjoy working from home and on my PC because computers are my specialty—I’ve always loved working with them. I also appreciate the flexibility of this schedule, as it makes balancing work and personal life so much easier. At my last job, it was extremely difficult to have a personal life since there were always emergencies popping up.
At smrtPhone, I get to do exactly what I love: finding problems and fixing them. I take pride in troubleshooting, and sometimes I get so focused and immersed in a problem that I become a bit obsessed with solving it. For me, it’s the perfect job.
Describe smrtPhone in 3 words:
It’s hard to sum it up in just single words, but there are a few key things I really appreciate about working here.
First, it’s a great product. I couldn’t work somewhere if I didn’t believe in what we’re offering. It’s reliable, innovative, and constantly evolving to meet the needs of our clients.
Second, the team and culture are exceptional. It’s unlike anything I’ve experienced before. Even though it’s a large team, everyone is approachable, helpful, and open. There are no barriers—you can talk to anyone at any time, and you’ll always find support.
Third, I value the flexibility of the product. It’s not rigid or stagnant. We actively listen to client feedback and work hard to improve the platform, adding new features and enhancements to make it even more user-friendly. I love being part of something that’s always transforming and adapting to meet client needs.
Lastly, every day here is unique. You’re constantly learning something new—new problems, new people, new attitudes, and new opportunities. It’s never monotonous, and that’s what makes working here so rewarding and exciting.
Is there a particular moment/project at smrtPhone that stands out and makes you feel proud?
Personally, I really enjoy learning, so every opportunity to gain new insights from the Development team that helps me better understand and troubleshoot issues on the platform makes me feel empowered.
I’m always excited when we announce new CRM integrations. I’d love to see even more because each new integration brings something unique. Every CRM has its own way of working with clients, and no two integrations are ever the same. Even individual clients use the integrations differently, which keeps things dynamic and interesting.
When people encounter issues, I dive into research and often learn something new in the process. I take pride in building on the knowledge I already have and applying it to the next case, which makes me better and more effective with every challenge I solve.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I like to stay active and enjoy a variety of activities. I love traveling, skiing, and spending time outdoors. I play tennis, basketball, soccer, swim, and even go skating. I’m also a big fan of gaming when I have the chance.
While I have many interests, I don’t always have a lot of time to do them all. What I enjoy most is visiting new places and experiencing different cultures—exploring, relaxing, and learning something new along the way.
Lately, I’ve been enjoying trips around Romania, discovering all the attractions this beautiful country has to offer.
Name something that is on your “bucket list”
I have a few important goals for the future. I really want to visit the U.S., as it’s been a dream of mine for a while. Last year, I was planning a trip to Canada, but unfortunately, it didn’t work out.
On a personal level, my top priority is to get married and start a family—I want to have a child someday.
I’m also focused on buying my own place since I’m currently renting, and having a home of my own is something I look forward to achieving.
What is a fun fact people might not know about you?
Sometimes people think I’m serious because of my facial expressions, but I actually love to joke around and pull pranks. I have a very dry sense of humor, and I really enjoy making people laugh. One of my skills is keeping a completely straight face while playing a joke, which makes it even funnier.
For example, once I edited a picture to make myself look bald and sent it to my mother. She immediately panicked and said, “Oh my God! What have you done?!” I casually replied, “I just wanted to try a new look.” Her reaction was priceless, and it still makes me laugh to this day.
