Brenton Struck

Brenton Struck is an experienced tech expert based out of Mercer Island. After obtaining his bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Seattle University, Brenton landed a position working for a California-based company. Breton spent the next twenty years learning the industry before relocating to Washington where he now serves as a technology advisor for an up-and-coming marketing firm.

Serving in a management position, Brenton oversees all team members and daily operations. With an impressive corporate resume, he assists in developing and implementing infrastructures, analyzing current technological capabilities, and providing comprehensive solutions to optimize workflow. Given his extensive knowledge in system development, Brenton is a valuable member of his current team.

Where did the idea for your career come from?

I attended University knowing that I was very interested in IT and computer science. I am a very analytical person so I knew that I would do well in a technology-related role. After completing my post-secondary degree, I accepted a position working for a California-based company as a technology executive, which provided me with real-world experience in the sector. After working there for more than a decade, I transitioned into a more employee-facing role.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

My primary role is to provide critical support for anything technology or process-related at my current place of employment. When I am not facilitating the design of a new program or software, I am usually in meetings with company executives brainstorming solutions to any issues that may be slowing down productivity. Our goal is to provide stability and identify potential problems ahead of time.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Many would be surprised to learn that my job is very collaborative. Serving in a management position, I oversee a highly talented team of individuals who bring a high degree of insight and skill to their roles. Before implementing any type of formal process, I will typically run the idea past my team members and ask for their input.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Whether or not you would call it a trend, I know my organization has started hosting monthly informational seminars to educate our staff on current projects underway. We have recently emphasized security, and are now letting employees know how they can play an active role in keeping our data safe.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

Detailed note-taking. It may seem very simple, but a large part of my job involves communicating with executives to understand current inefficiencies and how we can utilize technology-based systems to optimize workflow. I need to first understand the issue to provide an optimal solution.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell myself to not let the small things get to me. As an analytical person, it is hard for me to make a mistake. However, experience has taught me that any mishap is a learning opportunity. Take the time to assess the situation and keep moving forward.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.

That a positive company culture starts at the top. Executives and senior management officials have the power to fuel a productive workplace by fostering open communication and allowing everyone’s voice to be heard. It is a common misconception that employees want after-work socials and trendy perks. In reality, they want a say in their role, and they want to feel as though they are a valuable member of the team.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

While I would not consider myself to be an entrepreneur, I do recommend that everyone take the time to make self-reflection a daily habit. There is always room for improvement. As a professional in the corporate landscape, I am always learning and trying to be a better version of myself.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business?

I would have to say extensive research. I value innovation, and I am always looking to learn more about my field and the industry in general. The only way to keep growing is to keep learning.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

Early on in my career, I had a negative mindset whenever I encountered any type of challenge or obstacle. A significant part of overcoming failure boils down to the mindset you have on a daily basis. Anyone looking to get into this field should understand that failure and mistakes are just a regular part of the job. A lot of our work is trial and error until we eventually get it right.

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Given the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 and the global pandemic, many businesses moved the majority of their services online. I think anyone looking to get into business right now would do well to start with an e-commerce site.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

I recently purchased a year subscription to a media platform that focuses on the latest in technological advancements in the workplace.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive?

I utilize technology wherever possible. I recently started using Hubspot Meetings Tool just to help organize my day-to-day and keep track of my meetings.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

Do It Today: Overcome Procrastination, Improve Productivity, and Achieve More Meaningful Things by Darius Foroux. I often recommend this book to my coworkers who are struggling to set their goals in motion. You can have a talented person who wants to achieve more but may have reached a standstill in their career. This book provides practical advice on how to self-motivate and overcome any mental barriers that they may be facing.

What is your favorite quote?

“Do one thing every day that scares you.” – Eleanor Roosevelt.

Key Learnings:

• The only way to keep growing is to keep learning.
• Take the time to self-reflect
• A positive company culture starts at the top