Gregory Poole
Client Advisor, Equalture
1. Who was your favourite teacher at school? What did you learn from that person?
Mr Clark, he was my music teacher in secondary school. I learnt the value of having fun and that everyone has potential. He would host music clubs every week and when I reflect back I realize that the students that were there were able to express themselves through music. I played the piano and the saxophone so I always enjoyed getting involved.
2. Do you remember a time when you were happiest as a child? Where were you, who were you with and what were you doing?
I grew up on a farm, so quite simply working on the land with my Mum was some of the happiest times I remember.
It was the normal tasks of each day, but, at the same time, every day was different. Whether it be shearing the sheep, or collecting the eggs from the 7000 hens we had, it was always the care and appreciation of what we owned was the joy, not to have more but to care for what we had.
3. What habit or behaviour or belief have you recently acquired? Why is it now in your life?
A recent behaviour I have aquired is the focus on choosing peace. Coming from a military background, peace was not the first thing I went to, however I have realized that in peace there is creativity, empathy and appreciation for others. Gratitude is an extremely vital focus to have, especially with everything that is going on.
From taking a step back, a big deep breath and recognizing that in a noisy world (especially when I spend A LOT of time on LinkedIn), that what I want to bring is that appreciation, that listening ear, to share founder’s stories, celebrate when they are and care when they are going through struggles, as we all do. As Manager in Business Development I believe that business is about people, their stories and community.
4. Name a well-known person you admire and explain why you hold them high esteem?
CS Lewis, an exceptional author, growing up I loved the book the Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe. I think his authenticity and his candid journey with faith really shows the real tangibility and reality of our human condition, which should be appreciated for what it is right now, rather than the demand of becoming something ‘better’. It is not about performance in life, it is about relationships. One of my favorite quotes-
“Faith is the art of holding on to things in spite of your changing moods and circumstances.”
One story that shows these juxtapositions and tensions is when I was in Afghanistan, I had just finished in a firefight with the Taliban in the green zone of Helmand province. Next minute, I am sitting with tribal leaders drinking Chai Tea building those relationships. I had faith for a stronger, unified country, despite the circumstances that were ongoing.
5. What personality trait has got you in the most trouble? What kind of trouble does it get you in?
Being a thinker. I now have a strong habit in making a list, and a clear diary. Without these I would be lost – the main trouble is with my wife when I forget to get something from the supermarket. My mind is always thinking about the next task, or new ideas for work and life. Which means that my current tasks can be lost in translation a little!
6. What’s one misconception people generally have about you?
That they do not realise that my main priority is to always learn and observe. I want to ensure I remain humble by never underestimating what is out there to learn about others. I believe the greatest key as a leader is to be a student first. Many people do not realize that I am listening, learning and taking in, even when they do not realize it. I know more than I let on 😉
7. On what topic would you never make a joke?
Quite a few! I realized, especially living in The Netherlands, that I am quite prudent haha. I cannot stand toilet humor!
8. When was the last time you felt like an outsider in a group? What/How did you learn?
Being an english guy living in the Netherlands this happens a lot. One of the main points I have learnt is to ask questions. To be empathetic to an outside group is key, I am the outsider therefore it is my responsibility to engage in their conversation, language and understanding of the world. Does not mean I may agree with everything but only through relationships can I share my story.
9. Cheese or Chocolate?
Cheese everytime! One day I aspire to own my local cheese shop back in Dorset where I come from!
10. What app or tech product have you most recently fallen in love with?
App I have recently fallen in love with would have to be an app that my sons child care provide, they take photos in the day so that I can see how he is doing with his friends, plus they update on what he is been eating, sleeping and doing. Despite not being able to be with him with work I still feel like I can share his day. So that makes me really happy.
