Boccini of LVM Group: "For it is in giving that we receive."

Name: Jeannette Boccini Title: Executive Vice President Company Name: LVM Group, a Didit Company Years in Commercial Real Estate: 20 In the last 12 months, which project, transaction, honor or accomplishment are you most proud of and why? In February, my partner David Grant and I sold LVM to Didit, an integrated marketing and advertising agency. I have always believed in an integrated marketing approach, and now, in addition to public relations and marketing communications, we are able to offer our clients search engine optimization, social media, content development, pay-per-click services, advertising, branding, website and creative design, and production. Our breadth of services enables us to offer tailored, strategic marketing programs that fulfill the specific goals of our clients. We are now part of a creative, talented 100-person company, and the sky is the limit. What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? I received my M.A. from Columbia University's Teachers College, and was an English teacher on the high school and college levels before entering the public relations/marketing field. I was in my 20's, transitioning from the academic to the business world with little knowledge of real estate, and feared that my clients wouldn't take me seriously or respect me because I was young and relatively inexperienced. I remember a mentor saying that my age was not my differentiator; it was my talent, intelligence, willingness to learn and help others, and passion for my work. You know, he was right! What was your first job and what did you learn from it? I started working as a mother's helper when I was 12, cared for children throughout my school years, and ultimately became an English teacher. I learned that you must be responsible, trustworthy and committed to the people you serve because they depend on you. Flexibility and patience are also key when working with different personality types; not everyone sees things the same way. Most significantly, I learned that building relationships and showing a true interest in others have tremendous rewards. Thirty-five years later, I am still in touch with the children I cared for, who are now incredible adults. What is your favorite quote? St. Francis of Assisi said, "For it is in giving that we receive." I try to adhere to this philosophy daily both personally and professionally. I am a serial networker, and when I meet with others, I always try to ask, "How can I help you?" I have found that by genuinely trying to help others -- whether that's making a needed connection, mentoring a student heading into the workforce or providing a listening ear -- I am strengthening relationships, sharpening my own skills and enriching myself. Also, I am a firm believer in good Karma -- what goes around comes around.