A Day in the Life of a Virtual, Inc. Program Specialist

The Virtual Life : Article

Q&A with Helene Tum, Virtual, Inc. Program Specialist, Client Services Tech Team

What has been your favorite project and why?

HT: Providing Working Group support for a newly formed tech association. This has been one of my most challenging projects, but also one of the most rewarding. Although I have provided Working Group support for existing clients, this was a new challenge as I would be the one setting the precedent for the working group processes going forward. I also had to research and implement a new collaboration tool for them which was out of my comfort zone. After months of prep, the first meeting was a success. I gained a lot of new experience from this, and I know there is still a lot more to learn!

Have you received any special accomplishments /awards?

HT: Being selected for Virtual Day in the Life!

What advice would you give someone hoping to pursue a career at Virtual?

HT: Don’t forget to look at the bigger picture and always give your best effort. We all get so wrapped up in our daily tasks that it may be easy to forget that everything we do, no matter how small it may seem, helps our clients make their mark on the world. Whether it’s making an administrative update to launching a new association, we all have a role in ensuring our clients operate as efficiently as possible.

What company value most resonates with you? What’s an example of that value playing out on a day-to-day basis?

HT: For me, there are two values – Teamwork and Service Excellence. Our goal in Client Services is to provide the best service to our clients, and I can’t do that without the help of my team. I’m so appreciative that despite how busy it may be, everyone makes time to help one another, no questions asked. Shout out to the CS Tech Team!

What/Who inspires you?

HT: My parents – they came to America as refugees and had to start over in a country where they did not speak the language. They made so many sacrifices, worked 80+ hour weeks, and never complained. I used to ask them how they did it and they would say, “We work these hours so one day you don’t have to.” That really put things into perspective for me. They are my motivation to keep putting my best foot forward, even on those challenging days.

What’s the coolest part about working with the clients we have?

HT: It’s cool to know that we play a supporting role in technological initiatives that can potentially change the world we live in. I’m always amazed hearing some of the things our clients and member companies are working on. For example, Toyota plans to build a 2,000-person Smart City at the base of Mount Fuji. How neat is that and how do I apply?

Favorite movie, book, food, music/band/song:

HT: I love all the Marvel movies, they’re the only movies I’ll watch more than once. I’m also a big foodie, so it’s tough to choose a favorite. I can’t think of any foods I don’t like!

Next item on your bucket list?

HT: Like many others right now, I can’t wait until we’re able to travel again. I’ve always wanted to visit Australia.


Helene Tum, Virtual, Inc Program Specialist

Connect with Helene on LinkedIn.

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