How I Succeeded is a regular series on Lifehacker where we ask business leaders for the secrets and tactics behind their success. Today: Jim Cook, regional director ANZ for Malwarebytes.
Current gig: Regional Director ANZ for Malwarebytes
Location: Sydney, Australia
Current mobile device: iPhone
Current computer: Mac
One word that best describes how you work: Vortex
What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?
Evernote, and I love a spreadsheet almost as much as customer meetings.
What social network do you find the most useful?
Linkedin.
What were the most important lessons you learned while growing your business?
Flexibility, listening and momentum help to build the right customer and partner relationship. Hire people who are creative and self-motivated – then give them the tools to make a difference.
What has been the most surprising part of your business journey?
I think that the most surprising part was the realisation that it’s all about people. Large and small businesses are actually just a bunch of people trying to achieve personal and company objectives. The policies or rules of an organisation are based on the decisions of people – so if you can find the right people they can always be changed. Hence ‘Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast’ (Peter Drucker)
What everyday thing are you better at than anyone else?
I’m very good at compartmentalising parallel tasks – I try to focus on what’s in front of me rather than worrying about everything else that’s occurring. For example. if I’m working on marketing I find it best not to try and think about sales at the same time. Another example is that I find it counterproductive to try and play with the kids whilst thinking about something work related. It’s suboptimal for everyone.
What’s your sleep routine like?
I try for 6-7hrs per night, although timing varies. I have my best ideas in my sleep!
What advice would you offer to other businesses on how to succeed?
Embrace the waves of change, both cultural and technological, flowing through the business world and work out what it means for you and your business.
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