LIVE 24-SEVEN BRICK BY BRICK. . . AN INTERVIEW WITH PAUL BASSI CBE
A familiar face for many, Paul Bassi's impact on the West Midlands region is undeniable. A significant employer, he's changed the landscape in terms of infrastructure with an eye-watering property portfolio and a passion for giving back in equal measure to his appetite for success. Having been encouraged to put pen to paper, his book Brick by Brick charts from his father's arrival in the UK with only £2 in his pocket, to interests in a £300 million plus property and business portfolio and receiving a CBE for his services to business. Quoting Lord Digby Jones, "Paul Bassi reviews success, breaks it down, pulverises it...and then rebuilds it in a way that forces readers to ask questions of themselves: excellent!" Katie chatted to Paul ahead of the book launch and touches on the writing process, the messages he wants readers to take from the book and the 'bigger picture'...
Interview by Katie McPhilimey 74
Brick by Brick'…there have undeniably been a lot of bricks involved in your career – too many to count [laughing] – what inspired you to write this book? What was the trigger? Or had you been toying with the idea for a while? I was asked to do a book in my early thirties, because we had managed ourselves through the early 1990s recession, which was a ‘real recession’ with sky high interest rates, unemployment and collapsing values. I was a bit embarrassed by the idea, as I really didn’t think I was qualified or experienced enough. I was asked again in my mid-forties and felt the same, but now I am 57, I felt that the time was right. The three key reasons were to firstly record the journey for the family and all the team I have worked with. Secondly, I wanted to share my experiences and knowledge, as I strongly feel that those individuals in my position have a responsibility to share this for the benefit of others and help them fulfil their potential, and finally, I thought what a great way to raise money for our charitable trust, as all my profits from the sale of the book are to be donated to the Bond Wolfe Charitable Trust. The primary focus of the Trust is to raise funds for worthy causes, regardless of cast, colour, creed, age, sex, religion or disability and so far we have supported in excess of 250 causes and charities.
In addition to Brick By Brick, the book title continues '…success in business and life'. Can you win at one without the other? I know both are equally important to you? I guess you could be independently successful in these areas, but in all honesty, these two parts of your life are very intertwined and I would conclude that you should endeavour to be successful in both and retain a positive balance, as the disciplines required in your private and work life are very similar.
You're very unassuming when it comes to your success; I recall a conversation with you whereby you stated that when the team go out to celebrate a win, you encourage them to, but leave them to it. You're always thinking about the next project. With this conversation in mind, it's quite a bold move for you to 'tell the story of success' – what happened? laughing] I still don’t celebrate the win! But I encourage others to do so! However, I take great pride in what we have achieved and that makes you stronger and more confident. I certainly enjoy and celebrate family and friends’ milestones and events. Sharing the story with others is something that I think all successful, fortunate or blessed individuals have a responsibility to do, when the time is right, and I guess that time for me has arrived.
What can readers expect from the book? I feel there's something for everyone in it – those just starting out, those facing hurdles, those at a crossroads or on the incline of their career, but how would you describe the book and what do you hope readers take from it? It is very me! Honest and direct, with a pragmatic approach to business and life. It will make people think deeply about their plans and aspirations. It’s relevant to a young start-up business or a teenager or an established business person, or indeed anybody in their 30s/40s/50s. I do promise all readers that there will be something in the book which will have an impact on them and encourage them to progress and enjoy their personal journey whilst fulfilling their potential. If it doesn’t, I’ll give them their money back!!
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