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ADVERTISEMENT Hughes Pinson HERITAGEBANK OF THE SOUTH Regional President 4961 Forsyth Rd Macon, Ga. 31210 (478) 471-4590 phone What is your approach to leadership? I am a firm believer in leading by example and always being willing to get your hands dirty. Most things worth doing are not easy. You need to know the "how's and the why's" to get the respect of your employees. The customers will see that, too. What are the three most important qualities of a good leader? Listening is very important. I learn more with my mouth shut. Never be concerned about asking a question. You never know who you are helping by asking questions, especially when nobody else is. Write it down. In your opinion, what is the single biggest mistake a leader can make? A true leader will never assume that someone is at fault. Have a one on one, if you really want to know the truth. Issues will be resolved more quickly and there will be fewer of them. What do you look for and how do you hire good people? I look for people who can think on their feet. This usually comes in the first interview, if it is there. Obviously, there are other good qualities, but I feel these folks tend to try harder and not give up. Tell us about HeritageBank of the South. There is a big misconception that HBOS is a start-up bank. The bank is 58 years old, publically traded and headquartered in Albany, Ga. We are just new in the Macon market. The bank is very well capitalized and we are in the "lending business." Our new location in Macon offers full service banking. We have been here for 15 months and are very happy with the impact we have made in the community in such a short time. Heritage Bank of the South currently has 29 offices in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013 MACON MAGAZINE I 71