A little over 4 months ago I temporarily handed over the reigns of Anywise to a highly capable executive team and left to take up a part time lifestyle in the Pacific. Removing myself from all billable duties and Directing rather than doing was a challenge that proved to be immensely rewarding and popped up a few surprises along the way.
I had worked pretty much non stop for 3 years to turn a small company from an initial purchase order for 200 dollars to an annual revenue of about 5m. We have hired, fired, won lost and delivered. It has been fast paced and certainly not for the faint of heart. I did this by recruiting the best I have worked with and convinced them to take on the most challenging projects I could find.
While I struggled to get reliable internet that was fast enough to run the various collaboration tools we had invested in, the company not only endured, it flourished. After returning in December for a debrief I have a few lessons I would like to share.
Ensure everyone is replaceable.
Get the right staff and keep them engaged.
Invest in systems that make sense of the data your company produces.
Outsource or delegate anything that doesn't absolutely need your special input for.
Ask staff to help.