Debbie Maue is a broker associate with Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty in Lincoln Park

What was your first job in the realty industry? I spent the first four years at The Apartment People. I like to think that is really where I learned about working with people.

Where did you grow up? Frankfort, Ill., about 35 miles southwest of Chicago.

What is your favorite free-time activity? Hanging out with my two golden retrievers, Mia and Minnie (my girls), and training for triathlons.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? Workout, walk my girls or meet a friend for a glass of wine.

Growing up, what did you want to be? An ambassador to a foreign country. I did know I wanted to travel, which I did quite a bit when I established the international side of my business. I was the NAR liaison to Costa Rica for two years, kind of like an ambassador.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? President Reagan, who was, in my opinion, one of the most respected presidents and had such an amazing history. I’d like his view on the world today.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? The lakefront. I’m out there almost every day. In the summer, any place I can sit outside with my girls and relax.

What do you love most about the industry? It’s never boring, and you meet some great people. I’ve met some of my best friends in real estate. You are always “growing” as a person, as you meet so many new people and face new challenges every day.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I’m myself. I try to go above and beyond. This is my career, and I take my responsibility to my clients very seriously. I try my best to put myself in my client’s shoes.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? You always have to be “on,” and you have to try to be patient. I am not innately patient, so I have to remind myself that you don’t always know what the other person is going through or what their day is like.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I’m always networking.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? Career wise, consistently being in the top 1 percent of Realtors in Chicago and being the 2014 president for Realtors to the Rescue. Personally, finishing three Ironman triathlons, and coming up, a fourth.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? “Princess” by Jean Sasson. It is the biography of a Saudi Arabian princess, and is very eye-opening. All of her books focus on various women and their lives in the Middle East.

What is your favorite restaurant? I’m not a huge “foodie,” but I like good, fresh food and good wine. Del Fresco’s for steak is great. Coast for sushi, too!

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Chicago? The Elk’s Club at Diversey and Lakeview. I see it most days when I’m out. It’s unique. I prefer the older, historical buildings.

What kind of car do you drive? A Ford Explorer Limited – I love it!

Smartphone or paper? Smartphone…but, I miss my Crackberry and still handwrite my “to-do’s.”

What is your favorite city after Chicago? Whitefish, Mont. It’s not really a city per se, but my slice of heaven.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Have confidence. Look at this as your own business.

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