Goldstein of NCB makes reputation as deal maker

During the last 10 years of your career, which professional accomplishment, honor or achievement was most meaningful to you and why? I'm the most proud of my ability to continually provide excellent service to my customers. Over the past decade, time and time again first time borrowers have become repeat clients, knowing customized service and a fluid lending process we offer at National Cooperative Bank (NCB). This reputation has been instrumental in my ability to maintain relationships with borrowers, managing agents, brokers, attorneys and accountants for decades, to attract new customers. Which project, deal or transaction was the 'game changer' in the advancement of your career during the last 10 years? The biggest game changer for me was building a reputation as a deal maker, not a deal breaker. I'm able to accomplish this by working with customers to tailor financing packages for their specific needs. Not fitting them into a pre-packaged product. The result is the borrower receives the necessary funding in a timely, efficient manner and often return for future financing needs. How do you contribute to your company and / or the industry? The priority for me and the other two senior lenders in our New York office is to work together as a team. Having been together for more than 20 years, our entire process is very cohesive and fluid. We would all attribute our success to this seamless team centric relationship. As for the industry, we provide a product that is imperative to the financial health of New York's housing market. What advice would you give to women just starting out in commercial real estate? My advice to anyone starting out in the industry, especially women, is to believe in themselves and their ability. Also, find a great mentor who will take the time to show you the ropes, and foster your strengths. It's been instrumental in my career, and many others who have experienced success over the years. Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career and why? Without a doubt, Ed Howe, managing director of NCB's New York office. As the head of our office, he is also a colleague and friend, and has always believed in me. His logical and rational approach makes him a great mentor, and the knowledge he shares is always valuable. From the start he established a very healthy work/life balance in our office, and it's been that way ever since. How do you manage the work/life balance? While I work incredibly hard, I recognize the need to take time for myself outside of our hectic business environment. One of my favorite treats is going to a spa. Nothing recharges me like a little relaxation and pampering. I also bring a fun approach to life both at work and at play. I find my sense of humor and love for fun, help provide happiness in all aspects of my life. How are you using social media to promote yourself, your products and / or your firm? As a firm we are active in numerous social media platforms. We stay in touch with our borrowers through Facebook, Twitter and regularly updated company website. New products are promoted through these mediums as well as more traditional outlets. Where would you like to be 10 years from today? In 10 years from today, I plan to still be working for NCB. I'm one of the fortunate ones to have found a job and a career that I love, and I intend to continue thriving in this role for many more years to come.