How I Succeeded is a regular series on Lifehacker where we ask business leaders for the secrets and tactics behind their success. Today: Mario Vecchio, APAC managing director at Big Switch Networks.
Current gig: Managing director, Big Switch Networks Asia Pacific and Japan
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Current location: Melbourne
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Current mobile device: iPhone X
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Current computer: MacBook Pro
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One word that best describes how you work: Frantic
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What apps/software/tools can’t you live without?
Qantas app, Flipboard, Grammarly, XE Currency, Google Maps, Apple Mail, iMessage, and LinkedIn, SFDC
What social network do you find the most useful?
LinkedIn.
What were the most important lessons you learned while growing your business?
- Right people = right results; wrong people = wrong results
- Cash flow is king
- Persistence
What has been the most surprising part of your business journey?
The change in technology globally over the last two decades – no one could have predicted how Steve Jobs would revolutionise everything with the invention of the smartphone.
What everyday thing are you better at than anyone else?
Understanding people, their needs, drives and what’s in it for them.
What’s your sleep routine like?
I typically finish the day around midnight and I am up most mornings at 6.30am. On average, I catch three international red-eye flights a month, which doesn’t help my sleep routine.
What advice would you offer to other businesses on how to succeed?
Make sure you have the following three things:
- Talent: get the best people you can
- Technology: determine how your business can build a competitive advantage using technology
- Traction: plan how your business can acquire customers effectively and efficiently.
It’s also imperative that you ensure the business has enough cash to get you through the highs and lows.
Finally, be persistent. It takes seven years to become an overnight success.
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