James Fisher is the co-founder and director at Rendr, a delivery platform providing the tools for merchants to serve the next generation of online consumers.
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1) To kick things off, could you tell us a little about your career background and current role?
It’s been an extremely fast paced business start for myself and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Straight from school in 2016, I took a gap year to explore the world as you do and learn a bit about myself, as I was stuck in that mindset of what’s next?
Through conversation and a passion in the e-commerce & marketing space, in late 2017, I jumped straight into starting up a digital marketing agency with a close friend of mine, who has turned out to be my business partner to this day.
In a world where connections and networking is everything, that agency stint quickly led us to the development of a side project Rendr, which provided trade professionals and DIYers the ability to get their tools and materials delivered within just 2 hours through a mobile app.
From this project and a launch right in the heart of a pandemic, the learnings and relationships elevated our model to what our product is today.
Rendr now has evolved into an on-demand delivery solution that partners with retailers and e-tailers to provide them with the tools to serve the next generation of online consumers through fast, same day and nationwide delivery.
2) What does a day in your life look like for you? Can you take us through a recent workday?
In the startup world, the pace and energy is unmatched, you create your culture and elevate your product, there is nothing better. The normal day starts early and ends late, working constantly on product development, brand building and sales, the mission to make Rendr a household and national name.
When you think about delivery and having your products delivered fast, think Rendr. We’re working relentlessly to get our foot in the door with all major ecommerce & retail brands to elevate their shipping solutions and make their customer experience as seamless as possible.
The journey of building our brand is just getting started and we are constantly thinking outside the square to make our product and brand as exciting and relevant as possible, taking inspiration and motivation from players that surround us, whilst building our own story.
3) Does your current role allow for flexible or remote working? If so, how does that fit into your life and routine?
When it comes to the question of remote or in office, I’m a 100% in office person, face to face interaction is the best style, by keeping it as personal as ever, showcasing your offering and brand is much more profound.
We don’t pressure our team to work from the office, however we hold culture to a super high regard, and to build that within, you need to be surrounded by everyone. No matter what your role is, you can bring value and in such a fast paced and evolving digital world, opinions and ideas are key.
Spare time for me midweek involves brainstorming and learning the art of building a brand and working to reflect that in my daily routine. I hold the mantra of ‘keeping your head up’ close to my chest, riding the roller coaster and eliminating the idea of overthinking. Back what you believe in and others will follow, it’s what breeds drive and inspiration.
4) What does work-life balance mean to you and how do you work to achieve that goal?
Work life balance is extremely important, it’s very easy to get caught up in the intense nature of work, particularly when you’re building your brand from the ground up. It is difficult to find balance when you love what you do and are fully committed to the cause, however I do have some strategies and routines in place to ensure I can maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The social aspect of life is a valuable tool, as it allows you to maintain relationships, whilst also learning from those around you, which is something I value to an extremely high standard.
5) In the past 12 months, have you started or stopped any routines or habits to change your life?
In the past 12 months, something I have incorporated into my routine is early nights, it allows my body to re-energise and impact the next day at full steam. There are occasions where work and life gets the better of you, however introducing this routine has definitely allowed me to be at my best and execute on my objectives.
6) Do you have any favourite books, podcasts or newsletters that you’d like to recommend?
I’m not a huge reader, however I have been recommended to read a number of books. One in particular that stood out and resonated with me, was Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss, it taps into the true beauty of negotiation.
Understanding your client, their wants and needs is the most important thing. Anyone can read a script, however very few can understand the need and fill it. This book is a must read.
7) Are there any products, gadgets or apps that you can’t live without?
Being a young entrepreneur born in a digitally advanced world, I’m caught up in the social media world, in particular, Instagram, not particularly from a social angle, but more an exploration angle.
I enjoy seeing what’s out there and how content is being executed, it’s a super important tool in brand building and gives inspiration to execute. WhatsApp is probably my number one as communication is everything nowadays, closely followed by Spotify as I am an avid music listener. When it comes to shopping, Rendr surprisingly tops my list!
8) If you could read an interview about work-life balance by anyone, who would that be?
Nick Molnar. What Afterpay has created and achieved in such a short period of time is truly inspirational and they are a huge role model when it comes to business strategy and execution. Understanding the challenges and strategies Nick implemented to give himself and his product the best chance at success would be highly valued.
9) Do you have any last thoughts on work, life or balance that you’d like to share with our readers?
Constantly keep motivated and challenge yourself, there is an opportunity at every corner and you have the power to dictate your direction.
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