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ADVERTISEMENT John F. Kennedy JAMES, BATES, BRANNAN, GROOVER, LLP C.E.O. and Managing Partner jamesbatesllp.com When you were younger, were you in leadership roles and if so, what were they? I was active in leadership roles in high school, college, and as a younger lawyer. I was President of my high school graduating class, President of Sigma Nu Fraternity at Mercer University, elected to student council at Mercer University, and Chief Justice of Mercer University Honor Council. As a younger lawyer, I have been active with the State Bar of Georgia and with other organizations. What is your approach to leadership today? Have a vision for the Organization, communicate it well and inspire people to follow with leadership by example that people trust. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013 (478) 749-9981 What are the three most important qualities of a good leader? Integrity, Creativity, and Judgment. Integrity in a trusted leader has to be the cornerstone of effective leadership. Creativity is helpful to approach and solve problems/opportunities in ways that may not be the norm but effectively address the situation. Finally, good judgment is indispensable. Beyond "smarts and skills," leaders must have good judgment to make appropriate decisions that affect others. In your opinion, what is the single biggest mistake a leader can make? The biggest mistake that a leader can make is to forget that all leaders 231 Riverside Drive Macon, GA 31201 ultimately serve those that they lead. Also, some leaders forget the responsibility and value of listening to others. What do you look for and how do you hire good people? We look for excellent skills and an attitude of client service. At JamesBates-Brannan-Groover, we have developed a defined set of Superior Client Services that hopefully inspire and also compel all of our people to focus on delivering honorable and creative solutions for our clients. MACON MAGAZINE I 65