Recently, our managing director Martin Hill took part in Business Leader's My Working Day Q&A. He revealed his thoughts on office meetings, how he plans his agenda and why it’s important to take a break at lunchtime. If you missed the article you can catch up on it below…
As the leader of a company, you are there to set an example, to lead and inspire a team of individuals to achieve a series of business goals. But, how do these business leaders go about their daily routine? Business Leader spoke to Martin Hill – the MD of DealTrak, about his working day.
What time do you usually wake up?
Normally around 6.00am during the week, and a bit later at weekends.
What do you typically have for breakfast?
Porridge oats with blueberries or honey.
What is the rest of your morning routine before you start work?
Whilst having breakfast, I check the BBC and Sky news websites to see what news has been breaking overnight. I also like to get some exercise in each day, so I’ll go for a run either before or after work – whenever time allows, really.
What is the first thing you do at the start of your working day?
I spend about 45 minutes working through emails. If any can be actioned within two minutes, I’ll get those out of the way, and schedule in the rest for later that morning.
How do you prioritise your day’s work?
The order in which I undertake my daily tasks is linked to the wider business priorities which I share with my senior management colleagues. This collective approach helps me to focus on the initiatives that I can add the most value to and support my colleagues the most in their endeavours.
Do you plan meetings or are they a waste of time?
As long as you have an agenda, agreed timings, and actions that people are accountable for, meetings are valuable. But, when they drift off topic or things don’t get done, that’s when they become a problem – discipline and focus is the key.
Do you have a working lunch or is it good to take a break?
I like to take a break and go for a walk or listen to an audio book while I eat something. You’ll never get the best out of your day unless you feed yourself properly and stay healthy.
When does your working day finish?
I like to finish by around 7pm so I can get some work-life balance. But, if there are impending deadlines on the horizon, I have been known to burn the midnight oil from time to time – just not all the time, or it becomes the norm.
How do you prepare for the next day’s work?
Generally, the last thing that I’ll do is double check that I have everything I need for the next day’s activities. A good night’s sleep helps as well.
Favourite piece of technology?
iPhone.
How do you switch off?
I am a working musician in my spare time, so I will generally be somewhere playing at a function, festival or event in the UK. It’s a great way for me to switch off and can be quite cathartic.
Best piece of advice you’ve received?
‘A Leader is not responsible for the numbers. A Leader is responsible for the people responsible for the numbers.’ – Simon Sinek.
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