Consultant spotlight: Mike Hurst

Q&A with Mike Hurst

1.What’s your favourite way to answer the question ‘what do you do?’

I help people to fulfill their potential.

 

2. What is your approach to finding a work-life balance?

I want to love what I do in the workplace, but ensure I make time to see my family too.

 

3. Describe in three words what makes a good leader

Courage, incomplete and genuine

 

4. If you could remote-work from any country in the world, where would it be?

Canada, amongst the amazing scenery and wildlife – so peaceful and calming.

 

5. Which culture, philosophy, or way of life – that is different to yours – do you most admire?

I admire courage and risk takers. The people who go backpacking around the world or who live on canal boats. People who have the courage to be different and to be at peace with themselves.

 

6. Who was your favourite teacher, role model or mentor when growing-up?

Mr Reed was my favourite teacher as he taught me tough love. He disciplined me and got me to focus on work when others couldn’t/didn’t. Once I did believed in my potential, he supported me all the way. I also loved his courage to be different and his creativity. He helped me learn in a different way.

 

7. What, or who, was your biggest inspiration when choosing your career route?

Pathways and Lane4. A chap called Chris Grant at Pathway and Liz at Lane4 really made me see the value in what they did. This made me start to think: “maybe I could do that too”.

 

8. Which area of your consulting work do you find the most interesting, and why? 

I love working with Exec teams. You work with real people, dealing with real issues. I enjoy helping to make a difference for individuals and their businesses.

 

9. What are the top 3 personal skills that leaders need to possess, or develop, to lead their organisation into the future? 

I believe leadership is more about impact than skills. I think impact is often created through personality, values, beliefs and behaviours. The key skills that I think are helpful are primarily around communication – listening, questioning, feedback and difficult conversations.

 

10. If you could go back in time and give your 16-year-old self advice, what would it be?

Stick with Manchester City Mike, however much it hurts!

 

11. What’s the number one thing you want to accomplish during your time on Earth?

I want everyone to say: “Dad/Mike was always there when I needed him!”