Ashley Donat is a real estate broker with Bridge International

What was your first job in the realty industry?
I started off in the real estate industry as an administrative assistant at a commercial property management company in the Loop, managing a 1.3 million sq. ft. commercial high-rise building.

Where did you grow up?
Crystal Lake – yes, that is practically Wisconsin!

Growing up, what did you want to be?
I was fascinated by science and enjoyed helping people, so I wanted to be a doctor.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed?
I go to the gym or work out by the lake while listening to music.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why?
My father is my favorite person to have lunch with. He has been able to build his own business very successfully and never gave up – even after hearing the word “no” many times. His motivation and drive are always inspiring, and the persistence to get the job done better than the competition has allowed him to become very well known in his field. I strive to build my business the exact same way.

Where is your favorite place to hang out?
My home. I am so busy running around the city, working from the office or the local coffee shop, so it is nice to just relax and hang out at my home in Lakeview. Plus – I love how I decorated my space, so it is a very tranquil place to be.

What do you love most about the industry?
I love that every day brings new and exciting challenges. Every client and every property is different. I love being able to analyze every opportunity and strategize the ways in which I can help my clients achieve their goals.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents?
I have an extensive background in customer service, and pride myself on being able to provide an individualistic relationship to each and every client. I actively listen to my clients and their needs and get the job done.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?
Staying organized – there are so many media outlets available in today’s world, so I have people contacting me via phone call, text message, email, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc. It can be difficult, but it’s very important to stay organized and make sure to follow up with everyone.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients?
I attend all sorts of networking events in Chicago and also in the suburbs – both real estate events and general networking events. I also love to network when I am out doing day to day things, whether it is connecting with the business owner of a store I am shopping at or talking to someone while waiting in line at a store; it is important to connect with everyone.

What has been your greatest accomplishment?
I graduated with a degree in education and taught for a couple of years. I enjoyed it very much, but felt something was missing. It took a lot of courage for me to leave that field and search for what would ultimately make me happy in my career. Having that courage and drive to overcome that obstacle and redefine myself professionally is my greatest accomplishment.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read?
“The Art of War” by Sun Tzu

What is your favorite restaurant?
New Tokyo, a sushi restaurant in Lakeview, is by far my favorite neighborhood spot.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago?
Tribune Tower. I love the gothic design of this building, especially mixed in with all of the new, modern construction in Chicago.

What kind of car do you drive?
A Jeep Patriot

Smartphone or paper?
Both

What is your favorite city after Chicago?
Austin

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry?
Act and carry yourself as if you are running for President – a very dear friend once told me that.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app?
The Loopnet app

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter?
Crain’s Chicago