Meaning: Richard Branson, a prominent and successful businessman, once said, "I never get the accountants in before I start up a business. It's done on gut feeling, especially if I can see that they are taking the mickey out of the consumer." This quote encapsulates Branson's entrepreneurial philosophy and sheds light on his approach to business decision-making.

Branson's emphasis on gut feeling over the involvement of accountants before starting a business reflects his belief in intuition and instinct as crucial elements in entrepreneurial ventures. Rather than relying solely on financial data and analysis, Branson advocates for a more intuitive and instinctual approach to business. This approach aligns with his reputation as a risk-taking and innovative entrepreneur who has built a diverse and successful business empire.

One interpretation of this quote is that Branson prioritizes consumer satisfaction and ethical business practices over purely profit-driven decisions. By mentioning "taking the mickey out of the consumer," he alludes to the importance of maintaining integrity and fairness in business dealings. This reflects Branson's commitment to creating businesses that prioritize customer value and experience, even at the expense of immediate financial gains.

Moreover, Branson's aversion to involving accountants at the initial stages of a business highlights his preference for agility and adaptability in the early phases of entrepreneurship. By relying on gut feeling, he may be more inclined to embrace unconventional or disruptive ideas that may not fit neatly into traditional financial models. This willingness to take calculated risks and trust his instincts has been a defining characteristic of Branson's entrepreneurial journey.

It is important to note that while Branson's approach may seem unconventional, it is not devoid of financial prudence. His emphasis on gut feeling does not imply a disregard for financial management or fiscal responsibility. Instead, it suggests that Branson values a balanced blend of intuition and financial acumen in the decision-making process.

In practice, Branson's approach to business has yielded both successes and failures. His ventures, such as Virgin Records, Virgin Atlantic, and Virgin Galactic, have become iconic brands known for their innovation and customer-centric approach. However, he has also experienced setbacks, such as the failures of Virgin Cola and Virgin Cars. This track record underscores the inherent risks and uncertainties associated with Branson's gut-driven approach to business.

In conclusion, Richard Branson's quote about not involving accountants before starting a business reveals his reliance on gut feeling, ethical considerations, and consumer-centric values in the entrepreneurial process. While this approach may diverge from traditional business practices, it has been instrumental in shaping Branson's entrepreneurial endeavors and contributing to his status as a visionary and maverick business leader. Ultimately, his quote serves as a reminder that successful businesses often require a balance of intuition, financial prudence, and a genuine commitment to serving the needs of consumers.