How I Succeeded: Locomote’s Philip Weinman

How I Succeeded is a regular series on Lifehacker where we ask business owners for the secrets and tactics behind their success. Today: Philip Weinman from Locomote.

Current gig: CEO and executive chairman at Locomote
Location: St Kilda, Melbourne
Current mobile device: iPhone 6
Current computer: iMac
One word that best describes how you work: Passionate

What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?

Email. It’s a fundamental tool for organising work.

What social network do you find the most useful?

LinkedIn.

What were the most important lessons you learned while growing your business?

It’s essential to find someone you trust to advise you or give an opinion about the decisions you make. A good mentor won’t judge you or push you to change your mind, instead he or she will show you new possibilities.

Another one is to avoid rigid structures. Any team member has something valuable to say and rigid structures tend to stop bright ideas from being shared.

Rule out negativity. Any business needs people that think everything is possible. If you think you can achieve anything you set your mind to, then you will.

What has been the most surprising part of your business journey?

I have built a number of enterprises and have seen all of them grow, but Locomote has surprised me the most with its solid and non-stop accelerated growth.

What everyday thing are you better at than anyone else?

Being positive. I like having fun at work whilst increasing shareholder value.

What’s your sleep routine like?

It’s good. I sleep the hours I need, around 4-5 hours per night is enough for me.

What advice would you offer to other businesses on how to succeed?

Bring passion to your workplace. When you enjoy what you do and you have fun, it reflects on your results.

And always believe in your team and in yourself. Dare your team and yourself to make decisions and to take smart risks.