How I Succeeded: Divvy’s Nick Austin

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

Current gig: CEO at Divvy
Location: Sydney
Current mobile device: Samsung
Current computer: MacBook Air
One word that best describes how you work: Passion

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

Email, Zoho, Google Apps and Google Docs are the ones I use everyday. I also use GoCatch to get around, Magicseaweed to check the swell, and Weather to map out the weekend activities with the kids.

What social network do you find the most useful?

LinkedIn by a long shot. I really enjoy connecting with people on similar paths and businesses who are open to collaborating.

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

I have two which are equally important: 1) Just go for it and don’t give up. Generally you will not get it right the first time, or the second for that matter. I’ve really learnt to back myself and trust the people I work closely with — without great people an idea is just that. 2) Listen to your customer and partners — they can really help you build a great business.

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

The people, definitely the people. I have really enjoyed meeting and working with some incredible people; I would never have had the chance to do this if I took the path more travelled. The outcome of meeting incredible people is the creation of an idea that grows and takes form – this journey is certainly an amazing experience.

What everyday thing are you better at than anyone else?

Keeping a clear head whatever happens. Growing an idea and a business keep me on my toes. There are more moving parts than I thought possible, things change all the time. I love this dynamic environment — I know many don’t.

What’s your sleep routine like?

I sleep like a log and snore…. apparently! I’m usually up before the sun.

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

Keep focused, be open to change, work hard, enjoy the wins and the people you work with, and learn from the low points. Above all relish the journey — not everyone get this chance, and the more you put into the better it gets.


The Cheapest NBN 50 Plans

Here are the cheapest plans available for Australia’s most popular NBN speed tier.

At Lifehacker, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. We have affiliate and advertising partnerships, which means we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. BTW – prices are accurate and items in stock at the time of posting.

Comments