RE/MAX PROFESSIONALS SELECT
Naperville/Tall Grass Subdivision
What was your first job in the realty industry?
Sales associate
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in India. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in India. We came to this country in 1964.
What is your favorite free-time activity?
I enjoy listening to music, cleaning the house and watching CNN or Indian movies.
What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I watch a good Indian movie on TV and do MLS searches for my future customers until I get tired, or I’ll go to the mall to window shop.
If you weren’t a Realtor, what would you be?
I have always liked customer service. I enjoy helping others, which is what I do well. Helping people makes me feel satisfied.
Has your At Home with Diversity designation ever come in handy?
Yes, definitely. When I took the class, I was impressed with the course material. Being from another country, I thought Realtors who are born and raised here could benefit from knowing how to treat people from other cultures. It certainly has helped me deal with clients whose cultural backgrounds are different than mine. The course teaches how important it is to respect other cultures, understand clients and win their trust. It has helped me develop an international clientele.
Do you think this is a designation everyone should have? I think it should be mandatory, more so now than ever.
What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Proving to new clients that you care about them and that they can trust you are constant challenges. The initial phase is very difficult; building a relationship with them is critical.
Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
I am very community oriented. I have been involved in community service for 35 years. I am always volunteering with neighborhood clubs, associations and local government. I think volunteering provides wonderful opportunities to meet people and build your image. I love children, and I started a non-profit organization for Indian children so they can get together and share their culture with the community. I am also a member of various organizations. I like to be busy meeting people and knowing what is happening locally. Visit my Web site, friendsofrajdurga.com to see that I have built an image in the community as a dedicated social worker.
What has been your greatest accomplishment?
Serving as cultural affairs commissioner in two cities where I lived and working with the mayors. Both were very satisfying experiences. So was winning the Athena Award, which recognizes success in business, involvement in the community and assisting women in developing their leadership potential. I also enjoyed the acknowledgment I’ve received as a good Realtor.
What is your favorite restaurant?
I have two favorites in Naperville: Le Siam, which is a Thai restaurant, and India Harvest, which offers cuisine from India.
Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
Sears Tower, but now it is Willis Tower
What kind of car do you drive?
Honda CRV 2000
BlackBerry, iPhone or Paper?
iPhone
What is your favorite city after Chicago?
I love Naperville. I’m happy to live there.
In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
The real estate profession is not as easy as it looks. It requires a lot of patience, sacrifice and knowledge. Success means constant education and staying abreast of new technology. You must have strong commitment.