How I Succeeded is a regular series on Lifehacker where we ask business leaders for the secrets and tactics behind their success. Today: Shane Muller from OBT.
Current gig: Managing director of OBT
Location: Sydney CBD, Australia
Current mobile device: iPhone
Current computer: Two Microsoft Surface Tablets
One word that best describes how you work: Mobility
What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?
Skype for Business ‘with’ Enterprise voice for the complete communication access. Also I use One Note and ShareFile on a daily basis. I wouldn’t be able to function without these!
What social network do you find the most useful?
LinkedIn. It’s a powerful tool we use frequently to discuss the topics in our ‘SeeThroughThe.Cloud’ magazine.
What were the most important lessons you learned while growing your business?
During the different phases of the business, there are different dynamics you need from your team – and sometimes, different types of team with varying strengths are required.
What has been the most surprising part of your business journey?
How quickly businesses’ requirements have evolved over the years. Right now, for example cyber security is becoming an increasingly scary and alarming topic. We are moving into a time where our Security Anywhere Solution is increasing in demand.
What everyday thing are you better at than anyone else?
I have always been told I have a very high level of detail. Be it listening, seeing and capturing both inside and outside of work. At work, I have always strived to really capture the essence as well as the details from every element from our customers.
What’s your sleep routine like?
Depends how much coffee I’ve had… I am organised so try where I can to get about seven hours, but I am also very sociable so there are times when this is not the case.
What advice would you offer to other businesses on how to succeed?
My advice is to really gain clarity on the vision and the motivation as you’ll need that vision and fuel to keep you going when all the odds are against you. Beyond that, have a mentor or coach that you regularly connect with to help keep you focused on the main things.
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