Name: Richard Meyers
Title: Director
Company: Computerized Solutions
How I arrived at my present job (academic and other influences): Actually, the way I arrived at my current job is a curious one. I have always been interested in computers as well as art; however, in college I chose to major in Literature and French (with minors in Ancient History and Art). Through out my academic "career" I would still dabble with computers, especially the Internet -- which I first heard of back in 1992. This lead to a natural progression to my interest in the World Wide Web when it first hit the scene in 1994; although, I did not begin to learn the HTM Language until early 1996. During this time I was teaching Creative Writing courses. It was during this period that I realized how big the market for Web development was going to be and so I got together with some friends/peers of mine and started my first business: Computerized Solutions. We decided to make it non-profit because we are more interested in helping society with the complexities of technology than we are in making large sums of money.
How I organize my day: This changes day to day, although my normal routine is to start by going through my morning email (which usually numbers around 100+), then I begin to work on various projects. I'm the type of person who works on a minimum of four projects at a time (and that's on a slow week).
Amount of time spent working daily (at home and office): I would have to say that this is around 9.5 hours, on average.
What I do to get myself thinking creatively: An interesting question, yet I do not have a specific answer for it. I have always been a very creative person so I guess it just comes naturally and I don't do anything -- consciously -- about it.
My problem-solving strategy: To just get the job accomplished!
What I do to relieve stress: I take a break and do a little mediation -- of sorts.
What I do to mentor those who work for me: I try encouraging them as much as I can, as well as challenge them as often as I can. I praise them daily and I make it a rule to note at two positive things for every negative thing.
What values are the most important to me and what I value in others: Honesty and pride.
What inspires, motivates, or gets me excited about my job on a daily basis: Helping others and seeing the joy that they get from it.
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Location: www.acm.org/crossroads/dayinlife/bios/richard_meyers.html