NEA C-Suite: Jerry Halsey Jr.

How would you describe your company? Halsey Thrasher Harpole Real Estate Group (HTHREG) is a real estate brokerage company with disciplines in commercial and residential sales and leasing, and management for third parties, partners, and family real estate holdings. Our philosophy is to make things better for today and the future.

What is the best business advice someone has ever given you? “Don’t lie to your pencil, and your pencil will not lie to you.” My dad believed, and I agree, that a project needs to work on paper if it is going to work on the ground.

How significant to you is developing a diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) culture within your organization? My priority requirements are qualifications and work ethic. After that, everything usually takes care of itself.

Which skills do you think are most important when it comes to leadership? Making the right match of people and jobs — recognizing and utilizing a person’s talents.

If you had $1 million to give, what would you support? I would support ULife Campus Ministry and City Youth Ministries. 

Do you think Artificial Intelligence (AI) can take jobs in your industry? I’m not sure what all AI will be able to do. I see success when people show up and work.

If you could change one thing about your leadership style, what would it be and why? I am not a complex person. I have experienced success when I show up, execute a plan, and treat people the way I want to be treated. It really is that simple for me. I wouldn’t know what to change.

If you could trade places with anyone for a day, who would it be and why? No one. I know, mostly, what my issues are — the good and the no-so-good. I would be terrified to step into someone else’s issues. I’m happy with my family and my world.

What’s your favorite movie or television show? I do not have a favorite movie or television show.

What are your thoughts on working from home? I think it is a great idea for evening and weekend work.

What is the most used app on your phone? It would be one of several business apps that keeps me informed.