Joe Genshlea
Founder
Joe Genshlea Law and Mediation
email Joe
What are three things you wish you’d known as you embarked on your career:
1. You are not the only one with problems, everyone you deal with has a job that is very difficult.
2. You are in it for the long haul, patience and tenacity are important.
3. Personal contact is extremely important, most communications is non-verbal.
Did you have a mentor? If so, what was the most important piece of advice they gave you?
I did have a mentor, Jack Downey, from whom I learned a great deal, mostly from his example. Key in his practice was getting all the problem areas out front early. They only get worse if you try to ignore or hide them.
How did/do you handle work/life balance?
My work/life balance was a bit easier than it is for many today. First, I lived and still live within a ten-minute drive from the office so I could be home for dinner or when needed, very easily, even if I had to return to work. Also, it was a time when my wife could be at home with the children until they were raised and in school.
Do you have any suggestions of books, articles, websites, etc. that might help a young professional?
You have a long life ahead so expand your interests. Try music, books and plays you wouldn't normally hear or see. You will find new avocations and expand your views and be more interested and interesting. Keep learning, keep growing.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell the 40 and under business professionals in our region?
Don’t confuse what is legal with what is moral. If a lawyer tells you “It is legal,” that simply means you won’t get sued or go to jail – not the standard you want to live by. “Legal” is a very low hurdle to clear. Also, develop a short memory for personal affronts.
