PhotoSurvey is a b2b SaaS company in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (“AEC”) space. PhotoSurvey’s patent pending Smart Photo Technology is transforming the way individuals and organizations in the AEC industry interact with and communicate through photographs.
We sat down with founder Patrick Caughey who shared a little insight into his daily life as a successful entrepreneur.
CONNECT: How do you recharge?
Patrick Caughey: Over longer periods of time, I recharge by reminding myself why I chose to do what I do and by thinking about what the alternatives may be like. As long as what I’m doing makes me happy and contributes something positive to those around me, I’m recharged.
Over shorter periods of time, I get up and move. Put the computer away, leave the phone. Stop everything for a few hours, a day, a week or more and come back with a clear and objective perspective.
CONNECT: If you were to tell one person “Thank You” for helping me become the person I am today, who would it be and what did they do?
Caughey: There are too many people on this list to narrow it down to one. I’m fortunate to have known many people who were kind, motivating, inspiring and candid (honesty matters, even when you don’t want to hear it). The list includes high-school teachers, college professors, coaches, parents and even a few ex-girlfriends. There is no question that without these people I would not be the person I am today.
CONNECT: When are you the happiest?
Caughey: Running on the 101.
CONNECT: What’s the best business advice you’ve received?
Caughey: Trust your instincts.
CONNECT: What’s one lesson you learned in the “school of hard knocks” (or “the hard way”) that you help your fellow entrepreneurs avoid?
Caughey: Don’t pitch until you’re absolutely ready. Focus on the areas of your business that you’re least comfortable with – financials, roadmap, team growth, whatever the area may be – and get comfortable with it. Being able to speak clearly and succinctly about all areas of your business is an absolute must when pitching to investors. You only get one shot.
CONNECT: Why are you building THIS company (why this topic, why are you inspired)?
Caughey: I’m building PhotoSurvey because I want to build something useful for my industry; something that makes our lives easier and allows us to focus on what we love most – designing and building.
CONNECT: What characteristic do you most admire in others?
Caughey: Candidness
CONNECT: What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in the last year?
Caughey: Persistence and resilience will get you where you want to be.
CONNECT: What’s your favorite business book or website?
Caughey: For public speaking: “Speak so your Audience Will Listen” by Robin Kermode. For everything else: NYTimes.com.