Bridget Harmon, Customer Relations Supervisor, has always been skilled in problem solving and “figuring things out,” as she would say. From the time she was a girl growing up in Goldsboro with aspirations of becoming an attorney to her first job as an adult at a law firm, solving a problem or finding the why has proven to be driving forces for her.
It is reflected in her preferences of what to read – true crime and mystery – down to what makes her a good fit as Customer Relations Supervisor. In her role, she monitors calls, chats, and walk-ins to ensure our standards are being met. She also takes escalated calls from representatives or team leads and helps resolve billing issues and leads GUC’s new Community Solar Project customer registrations.
“My first job out of school was at an attorney’s office and later I worked in health care for years,” she said. “In those positions and here, I had to figure things out, and that is what I like doing. At GUC, with our customers, I want to help them find out why their bill is higher than normal. I want to know the why and I will keep digging into the matter until I find the answer.”
Bridget recognizes that the majority of customer’s problem can be solved if you listen and closely observe. Her stoicism and restraint are the cornerstones of her ability to reach resolutions with angry customers. “I listen first, and hopefully I will have something to offer to meet them in the middle. Moderation and self-control are my superpowers – so my daughter says,” Bridget said with a laugh.
Fun Fact!
“I’ve never been on an airplane. I’ve never had a reason to get on one, but I also have a problem with motion sickness, so it may be a good thing.”
What are some favorite things about your job?
I really enjoy being able to come up with a resolution and help someone. That is a success for me. If I can give one person, customer, or coworker something that they may need or a solution to a problem they have when they come in or call, that would make it a good day. I also enjoy helping our reps find a resolution. It isn’t always me who is speaking with the customers, but when the representatives call me for assistance, and I have or find a solution, that is a good day, too.
What motivates you to work hard?
It’s an internal thing. It was how I was raised. Work ethic is a part of who I am. I want to feel like I have earned my paycheck and that I am making a difference.
What is your proudest career accomplishment?
My proudest career accomplishment was achieving my Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Weslyan University. I graduated in 2021 and worked full-time while I was earning that degree.
What was your very first job?
My very first job was at Subway. At 16, I became a shift manager. I enjoyed it, but it was years after I left that position before I ate at Subway again.
Any GUC projects you’re working on that you’d like to share?
I am working on signing customers up for the Community Solar Project.
What advice do you offer to those who are new to the utility industry?
There is a lot to learn, and don’t think you have to learn it all at one time. There are constant changes in technology, and you will forever be learning new things.
What would you like us to know about your family (spouse, kids, pets, geographical locations, etc.)?
My husband, Jason, and I just celebrated our 25th anniversary. My daughter, Megan, got married in 2024. Jason and Megan are also GUC employees. My son, Ryan, will graduate from the Pitt Community College Early College High School in 2026. We have a lab named Piper.
What is your favorite family or holiday tradition?
We plan a family vacation every year. Even though Megan is married now, we all still go together. I really love that time we have together each year.
Have you ever had a nickname?
My dad didn’t want to name me Bridget, so all through my childhood into middle school and high school, he called me Miki, which was short for Michelle.
What have been your favorite travel destinations?
It is very calm and peaceful in the mountains. I can truly get away and breathe. It’s beautiful.
What would you do if you won the lottery?
I would retire, pay off all my vehicles and home, and then I would buy a mountain house to go to whenever I wanted.
Do you collect anything or have any hobbies?
I like to read, and what I read depends on my mood. I do enjoy true crime books and mystery novels.
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
I am a morning person. I am in bed by 10 p.m.
Any advice on turning a bad day into a good day?
Most of the things that make a day bad are a lot of little things that go wrong. If you look at it as that one part of the day was bad and not the whole day, then it will help you move past it and shake it off.
Which apps do you use the most?
Zillow
What’s your favorite thing to do when not at work?
I love spending time with my family and catching up on sleep. That time is hard to come by with adult children. We are all over the place.
What is at the top of your bucket list?
I want to go to Ireland.
What’s your favorite season of the year?
Fall
Do you have a favorite sports team?
Carolina Hurricanes
What is your favorite local restaurant?
A’tavola
What are you looking forward to?
I am looking forward to another family vacation. Our last one got cut short due to bad weather.
If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Do you prefer to make plans or be spontaneous?
I prefer plans. I can be spontaneous though.
