MyMac.com Spotlight: Sara Teare

Who are the people behind the technology that we love so much? We know the products, the websites, the online personalities but we want to learn more! 

Every week here at MyMac.com, we will spotlight a company, developer or person that supports Apple users by creating solutions or entertainment for the Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and other platforms we all use and love by asking them to answer seven questions.

This week, we turn our attention to Sara Teare, one of the founders at AgileBits Inc., the software company behind 1Password.

1 – How did you get your start in technology?

I got started with AgileBits completely by accident! I was in a completely different career before I went on my maternity leave with my first child. While I was off, Dave and Roustem started working together to make awesomeness, and I tagged along. I started with the paperwork and books, but then as 1Password grew, and our team started to grow, I stepped into my Minister of Magic role, where I help lead the customer service team, among other things.

2 – What is your favorite computer of all time?

I have a hard time switching machines. I really enjoy the familiar clicks and clacks on my keyboard, and get to love the quirks each machine has. My last MacBook Pro fought a hard battle (including closing the lid with a pen on the keyboard!) and stayed with me for some time, running Snow Leopard and keeping me happy. I was pretty sad to pull it out for testing and discover the battery had exploded through the trackpad… I got it all squared away, and it has a few more quirks now, but remains largely retired at this point.

3 – Tell us about your latest product

A few weeks ago, we introduced the latest member of our brood: 1Password Families. We’re really excited to help everyone easily and securely share passwords, credit card numbers, and more with the people who need it. With a few mouse clicks, you can share the Hulu password with your kids, make sure your house sitter doesn’t forget the alarm code, and give your partner access to your most important information. You can find out all about it here: https://families.1password.com

4 – What was your first job?

Like many others, I started out making cash as a babysitter. In high school, I picked up a second job, which ironically was my first step into technology. I was hired into a small company part time to computerize their inventory and ordering systems, while also learning how to do payroll, working with customers, and watching large project management and job quoting come together.

5 – What advice would you give to younger people just getting into technology?

Go for it! Find your passion and pursue things. Don’t just wait for something to fall into your lap. If there is software you like, figure out what makes it tick. Follow the company and get involved – our discussion forums are active every day, and our team is in there interacting with customers. We’ve hired a number of people directly out of the forums because we’ve seen their passion and loved their relationship building skills.

6 – Who was your inspiration?

I’ve been very fortunate to have a wide range of wonderful role models in my life. Both of my parents came from different paths and gave unique perspectives so I could make my own way. Dave is also a great source of encouragement and inspiration. A member of our team, Khad, was smart enough to capture this gem from Dave: “Kill Them With Kindness is a proven, effective solution to pretty much every problem in life. People aren’t used to receiving love; that’s sad on some levels, but the element of surprise helps us a lot.”

7 – Where can people follow you online, and what is your website?

I occasionally write posts for our company blog, which can be found at blog.agilebits.com. While I’m not personally on Twitter, you can keep in touch with our team by following @1Password.