Leadership Q&As are a series in which selected members of the Think+ community take a few moments to reflect on their experiences, offer advice to their fellow Energy Advisors, and look toward the future of Think+.
These insights from Senior Director Mel Kremer were provided during a conversation in December 2024.
What initially drew you to Think+?
MK: I saw the vision and potential growth. I was attracted to Think+'s innovative approach to community solar and its mission to make sustainable energy accessible to everyone. The company's commitment to helping customers save money on their electric bills while promoting renewable energy resonated with me.
How has being an Energy Advisor impacted your life?
MK: Becoming an Energy Advisor has been a transformative experience. I've developed valuable skills, built meaningful relationships, and experienced personal growth while helping others.
How has your definition of success evolved since you started with Think+?
MK: Initially, success was about achieving sales targets and growing my Think+ business. However, as I progressed, I realized that success is also about making a positive impact on people's lives, building a supportive community, and contributing to a sustainable future. My definition of success now encompasses both personal and professional growth.
What are some of the biggest motivators that keep you pushing forward?
MK: My motivators include helping customers save money, building a successful business, and leading by example to inspire others to do the same.
What are some non-monetary rewards that drive you?
MK: The non-monetary rewards that drive me include the satisfaction of helping others and knowing that I'm making a positive impact on the environment.
What personal goals do you set for yourself, and how do they contribute to your overall sense of achievement?
MK: I set goals related to personal development, business growth, and building healthy relationships with family and friends. Achieving these goals gives me a sense of accomplishment and motivates me to continue striving.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone considering becoming an Energy Advisor?
MK: Always be ready to plug in, be willing to learn and adapt, and set goals.
If I may add another piece of advice, I’d echo Tony Procopio’s wisdom: Take a roll of tissue paper and tear off a sheet every time you get a "no." You'll be very successful before you start your second roll. Just go for the "no's"!
How do you empower and support your downline to succeed as Energy Advisors?
MK: I provide personal training, mentorship, and guidance to help my team develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed. I also encourage them to attend live business overview events and training sessions.
What kind of community do you foster within your downline?
MK: I strive to create a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive community where team members feel valued, empowered, and motivated to succeed. We share knowledge, celebrate successes, and learn from each other's experiences.
Share a fun fact or a unique story about your experience as an Energy Advisor.
MK: In the consolidated billing market, where we offer a 5% discount for non-LMI community solar, I often hear customers say, "5% isn’t worth it." So, I ask them these two questions:
- When you see a $20 bill on the street, would you bend down to pick it up?
- Have you ever driven a little out of your way to fill up gas for a few cents cheaper per gallon?
The response I usually get is, "Haha, you got me. Let me sign up for the 5% discount since it only takes a few minutes and could save me thousands of dollars."
What excites you most about the future of sustainable energy?
MK: I’m excited about the rapid growth and innovation in the sustainable energy sector, particularly in community solar.
What are your biggest goals for your business moving forward?
MK: My laser focus is on helping my team grow.
