NEA Women in Business: Kimberley Dale

Kimberley Dale
Attorney
Principle Branch Thompson Warmath Dale & Butler; owner of Paragould Title Company
Residence: Greene County
Education: Bachelor’s degree in corporate finance, Arkansas State University;
juris doctorate, University of Arkansas School of Law

What was your dream job and why? I am not sure it was my dream job, but definitely my top five of favorite jobs I have had are Burger King and Crowley’s Ridge State Park. On an aside, I am very blessed with my current occupation and the clients I work with. Depending upon where God sends me, I may spend retirement working for a National Park or driving a tour bus.

What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? I am very blessed in my personal and professional life. I hope to continue to have my eyes and ears open for doors. God is still working on me and I just hope I am paying attention.

What character traits do you feel have benefited you in your success? Tenacity and grit. Nothing worth anything is easy and nothing is impossible without hard work. There is no substitute for hard work. Be teachable and be willing to learn how to provide excellent service. I often say those that use their time wisely will surpass those with more talent, so I try to be efficient with my time and work smarter versus harder. I also believe you cannot be an expert at everything and the best way to serve your clients is to provide them the best representation — and many times, that may not be me. My duty is to give them a path to their success.

What has been the most fulfilling moment of your career so far? There is a certain satisfaction when you are able to assist clients through often unimaginable situations. I am of the belief when you hire an attorney, you are hiring someone to take over a “worry, problem, or obstacle.” That is a huge responsibility and I try to treat my clients like I would like to be treated.

What advice would you give young women who are at the beginning of their careers? Consistency is everything. You should never bet against a person who keeps showing up. If you can kickstart someone else’s career, do it. If you can help younger people avoid mistakes, do it. If someone doesn’t genuinely cheer for your wins, find others that encourage your dreams and aspirations. Always be someone’s cheerleader.

Attitude, maturity, and mindset are more attractive than looks. Hang out with driven, ambitious people with clear goals — they don’t waste their time and they won’t waste yours either. Ego is the enemy. Avoid arrogance and thinking you know everything. You don’t have it all figured out. You are a product of the five to six people you spend the majority of your time with. Choose wisely those you surround yourself with. Be strict with yourself and tolerant of others. Your standards are for you. Don’t argue with idiots. Listen to what God is whispering, not what the idiots are shouting.

Can you share how COVID impacted your business or organization? All businesses had challenges. We have a wonderful staff that worked through challenges and difficult situations for two years. Our greatest impact at our office was the ability to pivot within days — items that normally would take months or years to change. Many of my clients are of a governmental nature, and watching them adapt to ensure continued services to the citizens was very impressive and nothing short of spectacular.

Who have been mentors who’ve influenced your professional career? School teachers, professors, and the helpers that are not on the front page of any newspaper magazine article. Mr. Rogers always said to look for the helpers — that’s who we all need to be striving to become.