B LA CK HI S TOR Y M ONT H
BURR & FORMAN LLP
GIBBONS P.C.
Kermit Kendrick Partner and Diversity Committee Chair
Robert Johnson Corporate Department Associate
WHAT I’VE LEARNED
MY GREATEST STRENGTH
The most important lesson I’ve learned in my career is that there are no short cuts. One of the most inspirational books I’ve ever read is Outliers by Malcom Gladwell. In chapter two, he talks about the “10,000 hour rule” that essentially says it takes 10,000 hours to be proficient in a certain field. “There are no shortcuts” to becoming good at anything. I have found this to be especially true in the practice of law. For me, there is really no other career path that allows me to do the things that I do as a litigator. Every time I stand in front of a judge or jury and make an argument on behalf my client, I know I am in the right profession. Some of the best advice I’ve ever been given, and which still holds true today is: “Whatever career you choose Be All In. Do your job as if there is no plan B.”
MAINTAINING BALANCE
Everyone perceives “balance” differently. Am I there for my children? Am I there for my wife? Am I able to care for my aging mother? Am I spending time with the network of friends and family that I have developed over the course of my life? I not only ask myself these questions, I also ask the people in my life. So far the answer is yes. If someone wants to be balanced in his or her career and personal life, it has to be done intentionally, vigilantly, and attentively.
My work ethic is my greatest strength. A strong work ethic can help an individual overcome any disadvantages or deficiencies. In my profession, I am confronted with complex issues that aren’t easily understandable at first impression. However, my willingness to spend the time and effort it takes to decipher and resolve these issues is essential to the successful practice of corporate law. It has helped me advance in my career.
OUR GREATEST CHALLENGE
There are several issues that negatively affect the progress of African Americans, including unemployment, single parent homes, and the adherence of our impressionable youth to negative stereotypes portrayed in pop culture. However, the most critical issue, in my opinion, is the lack of focus on education by those in lower socioeconomic circumstances. Education is one of the most important tools for social advancement.
CAREER ADVICE
For those embarking on careers as corporate attorneys, I would suggest they choose a specialty area within the general corporate law practice. Once they have selected a specialty area, the next step is to develop a relationship with a partner who also specializes in that practice area, in order to learn the nuances particular to that specialty.
ACE HARDWARE FOUNDATION Jimmy Alexander Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Communications WHAT I’VE LEARNED
My parents inspired me with their tremendous work ethic. They both had low paying jobs but were tremendous savers. They motivated me to be a good person, and to treat people like you want to be treated, and help pull someone up with you. I also learned not to take myself too seriously. It’s all about people, or the next person, it’s not about me. I also, as they say, try not to sweat the small stuff. I’ve learned that your personal integrity is extremely important. Be humble, be honest, and be respectful. We are all people with diverse ideas, and we should respect that.
ON MOTIVATION
I motivate others by developing a strong level of trust, and building strong relationships, while providing clarity and direction. I make sure to establish clear objectives and goals with input from the team. The teams are empowered to drive results. I think my greatest strength is my ability to communicate and connect with people on all levels. This involves the ability to be a good listener, and understand people on a personal level.
BEST CAREER ADVICE
Have patience. Learn as much as you can in any role that you have. Be willing to take a couple of risks as it relates to promotional opportunities early in your career. Integrity, commitment, and humility are important keys to growth in a career.
January/February 2014
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