Truro jewelry store owners take important message from Branson

TRURO - Two local businessmen learned a special message after meeting one of the world's richest men.

"Give back to your community. You have an obligation to give back to the community, the country and world we live in," said Greg Johnston, co-owner of Inglis Jewellers.

He and Paul Clark, the business's other co-owner, travelled to New York earlier this week to participate in a business gathering hosted by watch company Bulova Accutron.

While there, they met Sir Richard Branson, of London, who is the fifth richest person in the United Kingdom and the 254th richest in the world. He is worth $4.2 billion.

Branson, an ambassador for the watch company, is a business magnate best known for his Virgin Group that boasts of more than 400 companies. In 1970, he set up an audio record mail-order business. In 1972, he opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later known as Virgin Megastores. Branson's Virgin brand grew rapidly during the 1980s as he set up Virgin Atlantic Airways and expanded the Virgin Records music label.

"He's the rock star of the business world and it's amazing how down to Earth this man is," said Clark of the 61-year-old Branson.

The men said instead of focusing on how he created his wealth, Branson discussed the importance of giving to others and instilling positive philosophies to employees.

"He said, 'remember how you treat your people. Use more praise and not criticism,'" said Johnston. "I was humbled in his presence ... we are so used to people in the world taking, taking, taking."

Johnston said the lesson he brought home was to become a better person.

"Try to give back ... if you don't have dollar and cents to give, give time or what you have or knowledge," Johnston said.

Clark was impressed the multi-billionaire didn't spend his time talking about finances.

"It was his story and philosophy of giving back to the community. I'm 100 per cent more community-minded because of the trip."

Clark said the mindset relates to business in Truro.

"It's about surrounding yourself with good people, trusting instincts and having an appreciation of your customers, understanding there are other choices out there for them."

The men, also known as the 'bald boys' of Inglis Jewellers, said they will continue to support community organizations in any way they can.              

The value of giving

Author : mchiasson@trurodaily.com