Each week we interview a member of the Wiltshire business community and find out more their working life. This week Carl Reader author of The Start-Up Coach and director of d&t chartered accountants takes the hot seat.
What time does your alarm go off?
Anyone who knows me knows I’m not a morning person, so I prefer to wake naturally rather than use an alarm. Having said that, normally I’m up by 8am to start working.
What’s the first thing you do?
At home I plan the day ahead, respond to any media requests, and get anything urgent nailed. This is done by about 9:30, when I head to the gym for an hour (if in Swindon) whilst my PA filters my emails for when I get to the office.
What do you do for lunch?
For me, lunch is the best time to have a meeting. You get someone’s full attention for a couple of hours, and it’s more fun than a boardroom. So, usually a business lunch, but if working I’ll just have whatever food is in my office!
What do you love most about your job?
The fact it’s not a job! I’m fortunate to have a few things that I do, and I love each of them: building a business, writing books, and talking.
What’s the worst part of the job?
When someone asks me a tricky (or even not so tricky) accountancy or tax question! I live by the mantra of employing people better than me. Our team of accountants and tax advisers are living proof of that.
What executive tool/ gadget could you not live without?
My iPhone. Social media is key for us.
What do you do after work?
The workday doesn’t end! I leave the office around 4:30 as I tend to flake a bit by then, have some dinner, and then work on future plans in the evening.
If you changed direction, what would be your Plan B?
A plan B is proof that your plan A isn’t strong enough!
