Thrive & Inspire ’24: Mutual Respect and ‘Shared Ambition’ Propel Bailey Law Firm Forward

Thrive & Inspire ’24: Mutual Respect and ‘Shared Ambition’ Propel Bailey Law Firm Forward

Jess Bailey, Founder & Managing Attorney of Bailey Law Firm PLLC

WHAT LEADERSHIP QUALITIES are essential for thriving? Decisiveness, emotional intelligence, and the ability to inspire. Decisiveness is about making informed choices swiftly and standing by them; it’s a hallmark of leadership that instills confidence in a team. Emotional intelligence enables understanding and management of one’s own emotions, as well as relate to and influence the emotions of others. It’s crucial for building strong relationships and navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. The ability to inspire and motivate is what transforms a group of individuals into a cohesive, driven team. Leadership is a practice, not a position.


How do you prioritize short-term goals and long-term vision? Through alignment and balance, ensuring my short-term actions are steppingstones towards my long-term vision. I define my long-term vision in clear, vivid terms – cultivating my North Star. I break down this vision into strategic objectives and regularly review and recalibrate. My plans require enough flexibility to accommodate changes without losing sight of my ultimate goal. KPIs are crucial for monitoring progress and making informed decisions. But I always remember, it’s not just about ticking off boxes; it’s about meaningful progress towards a grander ambition.

How do you cultivate a workplace culture for individual and collective success? It’s a dynamic interplay of respect, support, and shared ambition that propels Bailey Law forward, and hinges on five strategic pillars. I walk the talk—I embody the values I want to see in my team. I communicate which is key; open, transparent, and consistent communication builds trust and alignment. Implementing recognition and reward systems to celebrate individual achievements and team milestones. Providing opportunities for professional growth and development shows investment in my employees’ futures. Lastly, I foster a sense of community and shared purpose uniting everyone under a common goal and vision.

How does innovation and adaptability factor into your business strategy? Innovation and adaptability keep Bailey Law ahead of the curve, by being proactive, not reactive to change. Our strategy is built on a foundation that allows for pivots and iterations. We encourage a culture of continuous improvement. I make it clear it’s okay to take calculated risks. Fostering this environment means leading by example. I show my team I’m willing to question the status quo and push boundaries. We know continuous improvement is a perpetual process, not a one-time initiative. It requires persistence and a genuine commitment to excellence.

What were your proudest business achievements this past year? The Houston Business Journal Most Admired CEO Award 2023 and BBB Pinnacle Award 2023 serve as notable highlights. These prestigious recognitions underscore our commitment to leadership excellence, innovation, and ethical business practices. Additionally, the dual honors inspire us to continue striving for excellence and reinforcing our position as community leaders.

For Realty Pro Sarah Callaway Sulma, ‘Real Estate Is a Relationship Business’

HOW DID YOU get to where you are today? I was raised by a family that had a strong work ethic coupled with high moral standards. I was pretty much given the groundwork - I just had to put it in play!

Keep Reading Show less
People + Places

Paella Valenciana at Mi Luna

THOUGH IT'S BEEN in Houston less than a decade, Sof Hospitality has made major inroads with foodies and critics alike. Its concepts include Doris Metropolitan, Hamsa and Badolina Bakery, all of which deliver the rich flavors of Israeli cuisine in complex, photogenic and delicious dishes. Its newest, Októ, opened earlier this year, one of several energetic restaurants to bow in the Montrose Collective, just in time for the holidays.

Keep Reading Show less
Food

Bill Viola’s ‘Ascension,’ on display as part of ‘Living with the Gods’ at MFAH

THE ARTIST WHO ushered in the expressionist movement in the early 20th century was not, in fact, Picasso or Matisse. It was Paul Gauguin, whose career spanned the decades just preceding the turn of the century. The French painter is the subject of the Museum of Fine Arts’ latest exhibit, Gauguin in the World, which was organized by Henri Loyrette (formerly of the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay, Paris). The show, just one of the museum’s diverse winter season shows, debuted in Australia in June and will be on display through Feb. 16, 2025, at the MFAH, the only U.S. venue for the survey.

Keep Reading Show less
Art + Entertainment