In 2021, Root3 has once again experienced growth, which means we are expanding our team. And that’s exactly what we’re doing! Currently, the team consists of 12 employees.
Among them is Robin, whom you may have already spoken to over the phone, providing support for Apple-related inquiries. But let’s delve into what you may not yet know about Robin.
Robin Broeke
Let me introduce myself. I’m Robin Broeke, 33 years old, and I live with my wife, our 1-year-old son, and two cats in Grootebroek. Since July 1st, I have been working as a Technical Support Engineer at Root3.
Last year, we purchased a house, and to turn it into a true home, we’ve undertaken various projects. One of the things I enjoy doing the most is making our home smarter using HomeKit devices such as smart lighting, doorbells, and cameras. Optimizing these devices has become a passion of mine.
What’s your history with Apple?
In 2005, I had my first encounter with Apple through my first Apple purchase, an iPod nano! It was through this iPod that my love for podcasts began. In 2007, I got my first MacBook with Mac OS X Tiger. Later on, I imported the first-generation iPhone from the United States. It was a beautiful device, but it didn’t have an App Store, 3G, or even the ability to record videos. Nevertheless, I was ecstatic about this first iPhone. At that point, it was safe to say that I had developed a healthy obsession with Apple products and the company itself.
I have always been involved in solving technical problems for others, and I also enjoy building and repairing Macs. That’s when I thought, why not turn my hobby into a profession? That’s why one of my first jobs was at iCentre. When Apple opened its store in the Netherlands, I knew I had to work directly for Apple. I worked as a Genius from 2015 to 2021.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of remote work for you?
One advantage is that I have plenty of time to listen to my podcasts during my commutes. It’s ideal for when I’m on the go! When I work from home, I have less time to listen to them. Listening to podcasts has become such a significant part of my routine that I even miss it when I have to work from home. Sometimes, I miss having that cooldown period from when I finish work to when I arrive home. On the other hand, not having to commute gives me extra time with my son, and that extra time is incredibly precious to me.
What’s something that often surprises you?
I’m sometimes surprised by how many people stick to old habits when it comes to their work processes. There are numerous ways to work more efficiently and productively with Macs, iPhones, iPads, or services like Google Workspace. Many people choose to stick with what they’re familiar with and what feels safe to them. Given my work, I’m constantly engaged in discovering and learning new processes, but I was doing that even before. By working more efficiently and effectively, I derive more enjoyment from my work. That’s why, when supporting customers, I try to provide them with some personal tips and not just solve their primary issue.
Which event in your professional or personal life has been significant to you?
During the lockdown in 2020, I had the opportunity to work from home on a project for Apple. Prior to that, my working hours at Apple were highly irregular, but remote work allowed me to have more regular working hours. During this period, my wife became pregnant and we welcomed our son into the world. It made me realize that I wanted to maintain this wonderful work-life balance. I have truly found this improved work-life balance at Root3.