BEST CAREER MOMENT SO FAR
I firmly believe that reputation is a function of accumulated daily experiences. I try to avoid focusing too much attention on the past. That said, being elected to the partnership at WLJ stands out as one of my best moments.
HOW I KNEW THIS WAS MY PASSION
I knew I wanted to be an attorney by third grade. I knew it was my passion when I got up every morning of my first two years of law school and drove from Batesville to Little Rock.
MY FIRST JOB AND WHAT IT TAUGHT ME
I started farmwork at a young age. My first day, I was satisfied to earn a small amount of spending money. When a transportation fee was collected at the end of the day, I learned a valuable lesson about overhead.
NONPROFIT I WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT
I advise many nonprofits and also devote time to nonprofit board service. Many of these deserve much more recognition. The one at the top of my mind is Lyon College, which educates and is a difference-maker for many first-generation students.
WHAT KEEPS ME COMING BACK TO MY JOB EVERY DAY
My motivation to keep coming back is the results, the small and large victories that my WLJ colleagues and I are able to achieve for our clients every day and witnessing the positive impact of our work.
BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN MY CAREER
The biggest challenges in my career have been relocating to Indianapolis, becoming licensed and building a practice there after practicing in Little Rock for four years. Returning to Little Rock and starting over again ranks a close second.
BEST ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED
“Don’t hang a shotgun over the fireplace unless you intend to use it.” Roughly translated, this means be concise in written and oral communications and avoid adding unnecessary detail.
THE FIRST THING I DO TO COURSE CORRECT WHEN I HIT A WALL
I find that doing nothing works best. I recalibrate by spending a few absent minutes staring out my office window.
IN THE DETAILS
Hometown: Bradley
Last Local Purchase: Sport coat
Natural Talent: Ability to persuade and motivate
How I prepare on Sunday for the week ahead: I start with reading, quiet reflecting and church, and often end my day working ahead on the next week’s to-do list.
Favorite Local Dish: Loblolly ice cream
Hobbies: Dreaming about beach vacations
501.212.1263
djones@wlj.com
200 W. Capitol Ave., Ste. 2300
Little Rock
