What’s it like working with Richard Branson? A little video clip tells you

Years ago Richard Branson rang me. I had just written a very rude article about a mailing Virgin Airlines had done jointly with American Express. He rang and left a message giving his number if I wanted to talk about it.

Unfortunately I was on the plane to Sydney at the time, and when I got there I couldn’t think of anything intelligent to say anyway. A while later he sent me a nice note about something else I’d written – and that’s as far as our relationship went. But I was impressed by his attention to detail – something far too few big business bosses have

I have always regretted this missed opportunity to get to know someone so able and interesting, but later I did become friends with someone – a client actually – who worked with him for years, and who told the delegates at EADIM, my little business school, what it was like.

I was thrilled to realise two things. First, that Richard Branson’s approach is a million miles away from all the pretentious MBA waffle and theory that screw up so many businesses. And second that he seems a likable, modest sort of chap.

But why read what I have to say? I am merely the messenger. You can see the man himself, Rowan Gormley, (whose Naked Wines firm shows he is himself no mean entrepreneur) talking about what it was like.

Rowan actually helped Sir Richard start three successful businesses, and I think you’ll like his no-nonsense approach. To see him you just have to register – and no, this does not involve parting with any money.

Actually, you will get a cheering little gift from Rowan just for watching the clip. It won’t be up for long, as I’m going to put up some more stuff shortly – including something from the David Ogilvy video that I mentioned last week.

So check it out. As you will see, it’s not only informative – it’s funny. I suspect you’ll want to send it on to a few friends. If so, they’ll get a cheering little gift, too