Linda Dore is a broker/agent with RE/MAX Synergy in Orland Park.

What was your first job in the realty industry? Like many Realtors, my first desire to become a Realtor was when I considered selling my home. After observing the duties of the Realtor representing me, I decided right then and there that this was a career I could love.

That was in 1988, when I became licensed and brought my license into the mom-and-pop shop that sold my house in Oak Lawn. They did not have the resources that are needed to become proficient in real estate sales, so I had to move on to a brand that did.

What is your favorite free-time activity? I have many favorite activities that I enjoy, but mostly, I enjoy starting the day with a brisk run in the woods with some great tunes to inspire me. Cooking and learning to live “green” is my current interest.

Mother Earth deserves a lot of respect that she has not been receiving in recent years, and I feel compelled to learn the natural way to earn her respect. For instance, my meal planning now is low on preservatives and processed foods and high on protein, whole foods and vegetables. I am even looking into how to make my own cleaning products.

If you weren’t a Realtor, what would you be? Whatever it would be, I would have to be around people. I find people fascinating with all our quirks and differences, as well as our common bonds that we share. I believed I would be some type of mediator or coach, getting people to find how to get from point A to point B and enjoy the journey.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? I am very inspired by Bill Gates; he simply gets what life is about. In my lifetime, he was the first tycoon of recollection that realized and respected the importance of giving back to society the blessing that he has been given.

What do you love most about the industry? The excitement of making the pieces of the puzzle fit together and the possibility of the next phone call or email bringing unimaginable success.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? Being humble and relating to people with truth in your heart will always lead the way to success.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? Telling people difficult news. Recently, I had to critique the conditions of one of my listings for a seller, and that was not easy. But what I try to do just before I meet with them is put myself in their place and find the words that would be helpful and not hurtful. When you speak the truth with good intentions, it will be received with open ears.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Professionally, it was being president of Mainstreet Organization of Realtors (MORe). I was a very shy, introverted person before my involvement with MORe. It was a growth experience that changed my life.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? The Wrigley Building.

Smartphone or paper? Smartphone.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Focus!

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