If I knew then: Charles Radclyffe

A self-confessed geek and serial entrepreneur, Charles Radclyffe, a digital ethicist and founder of the Data Philosopher, has focused his career on solving tough technology challenges for some of the world’s largest organisations.

Having built and sold three technology companies, he went on to become an experienced public speaker and has presented in the UK, US, and the Middle East on the philosophical questions around smart devices, data science, and the artificial intelligence industry, and the societal impact of technology.

In his spare time, Charles supports and mentors young entrepreneurs and startup teams.

How did you start out in business?

In 2000 I was living in Torquay after my gap year. A friend suggested that as I was pretty handy with a screwdriver and computer keyboard, I should advertise myself as a computer repair guy.

The cost of running the advert in the local paper was £50 so it was an all-or-nothing bet. I put the advert in and spent the day sitting by the phone. It didn’t ring. That evening when I got home from the pub, I thought I’d had too much to drink when I saw the answerphone flashing. I called everyone back and it was the start of a business which I continued running at university, and eventually sold five years later.

If you knew then what you know now, what mistakes might you have avoided?

Starting a business without sufficient capital is hard. I was also too busy to keep good accounts. This cost me later as I lost track of cash and meant I was constantly living hand-to-mouth.

What advice would you have given yourself when starting out?

Plan. Put controls around the financial aspects of the business (or find someone who can help). And don’t waste time on proving your gut instinct wrong.

If you knew then what you know now, would you still be sitting there?

Yes. That’s why it’s important not to have regrets. I’m glad I struggled and failed lots in my early years as it hardened my resolve and opened me up to new opportunities.

What do you know now that you didn’t know then?

I learned more about myself: being comfortable in your own skin is a wonderful feeling. I worked hard trying to develop myself as much as my business and failed many times at both, but I’ve learned how valuable that personal development is.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received so far?

“If you pay peanuts, you’ll hire monkeys.” Graham Williams, turnaround expert and former F1-test driver, has been a great mentor during my career, and now a great friend too. A chance encounter brought us together, but his advice literally changed my life.

What is your business highlight?

Hearing the stories of people who once worked with me going on to be successful and happy. Seeing someone make the most of themselves and the opportunities life brings them is hugely rewarding; feeling like you’ve played a part in helping them get there is wonderfully enriching.

What is your business low point?

I had to make a round of redundancies due to mistakes that I was largely to blame for. I hope it’s something I never have to go through again as being responsible for someone else’s financial hardship is truly miserable.

What keeps you awake?

Excitement about what the day ahead brings – and the newest addition to the family waking up early.

What’s changed from when you started out?

The internet. But also, a stronger entrepreneurial culture in the UK. When I started out, there were still those who turned their nose up at small business. Now startup entrepreneurs are like rock-stars.

What’s still on your to do list?

I hope one day to work on something that can make a lasting difference to the world.

What’s next for you and the Data Philosopher?

I’m very concerned about the fact that the tech industry is running off making lots of decisions about our futures without really engaging with society and finding out what sort of future we want to build.

I’m busy sharing my experience of working at a large institution that’s evaluating and experimenting with this technology – and hopefully will be starting lots of conversations about how even those of us outside the tech world can play a part in shaping our shared future.

Read more: If I Knew Then: Anna Wilson