I’m Erik Martin, General Manager Of Reddit, And This Is How I Work

Since 2008, Erik Martin has managed Reddit, one of the internet’s most influential, highly trafficked sites. Reddit users, or redditors, share and vote on posts so the best/funniest/most controversial rise to the top. If you’ve watched a viral video or laughed at a meme, chances are Reddit had something to do with it.

Under Erik’s guidance, the site has hosted wildly popular “Ask Me Anything” interviews, grown its gift exchange program, and led the fight against internet regulation. Somehow, Erik manages to stay sane and keep a low profile (though his spot on this year’s Time 100 might change that).

Name: Erik Martin
Occupation: Reddit General Manager
Location: WeWorkLabs, New York
Current computer: MacBook Pro
Current mobile devices: iPhone
One word that best describes how I work: improvisation

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

I love my mechanical keyboard. I have a Filco Majetouch at the office and a Razer at home. I also have an old Mac SE that I mess around on every once in a while just to feel like a kid again.

What’s your best time-saving shortcut/life hack?

Uninstalling Civilization V and not going on TV Tropes. Seriously, everything else pales in comparison to the time saved by these two things.

What’s your favourite to-do list manager?

I use Action Method and Evernote depending on the day and project.

What’s your workspace setup like?

I’ve had a bunch of knee surgeries, so I’m a big standing desk user. I have an Ergatron adjustable standing desk with a laptop and external monitor.

My dog, Mog, an adorable Brooklyn mutt, comes to work every day with me. She makes sure I don’t get too stressed out and guards the office from Terminators.

Besides your phone and computer, what gadget can’t you live without?

Pull-up bar. No better stress reliever or wake up device than to do a few pull ups.

What do you listen to while you work?

I mostly listen to late ’90s rap and hiphopheads.reddit.com. I also listen to Don Ellis, Jimmy Smith, and some other jazz folks that my dad introduced to me.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Trust your first instinct. It’s usually right.

We’ve asked a handful of heroes, experts and flat-out productive people to share their shortcuts, workspaces and routines. Every week we’ll feature a new guest and the gadgets, apps, tips and tricks that keep them going. Want to suggest someone we should feature or questions we should ask? Let us know.