Baikowitz of Fireball Network: Support each other in careers

Name: Deena Baikowitz Title: Co-Founder & Chief Networking Officer Company Name: Fireball Network Follow my company on Twitter @FireballNetwork What year did you start your career in commercial real estate: 2003 Real Estate Associations/Organizations: CREW New York: Co-Chair, Young Leaders Group Elevate Network (formerly 85 Broads) NEWH - The Hospitality Industry Network Follow me on Twitter @FireballDeena What recent honor, achievement or recognition has meant the most to you and why? I was recently appointed co-chair of the new CREW New York Young Leaders Group. I am passionate about helping younger women build their confidence, their executive presence, and their leadership skills. It is so exciting and fulfilling to collaborate with these dynamic young women and emerging leaders. When you launched your own business what were some of the initial challenges and how did you overcome them? As a business owner, there are constant challenges. You have to balance sales, marketing, networking, and operations - and always take excellent care of your clients. I learned quickly not to try to 'do it all' by myself. You can't handle everything successfully on your own. That's why I work with experienced business advisors, trusted peer mentors, skilled consultants, and like-minded collaborators who guide me in growing my business. I also dedicate time for fun and social activities, and mix business with pleasure as often as possible. My friends become clients, and my clients become friends. We support each other in our careers, our businesses and our lives. I am grateful to have smart, caring people in my network. We can always count on each other to provide advice and encouragement, and deal with any type of challenges. What is the best advice you have received and who was it from? "Surround yourself with good people." ~ Marilyn Kane, President and Founding Partner of Iridium Capital. Marilyn gave me this advice when we 1st met at a CREW meeting in 2003. It is her mantra, and she generously shares it with everyone she meets. What did you want to be when you grew up? A Fireball.