Name: Chava Eva Klein
Title: Partner
Company/Firm: Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.
Years with company/firm: 1 ½ years
Years in field: 18
Years in real estate industry: 18
Telephone: (516) 663-6514
Email:
[email protected]
URL: www.rmfpc.com
Real Estate Associations/Affiliations: Hospitality Industry Bar Association;
Real Estate Section of Nassau County Bar Association
How do you and/or your firm use social media?
Our firm uses LinkedIn, Twitter, Google, and Adwords within social media. I feel that Linkedin is beneficial and belong to various groups related to the real estate industry
What is the most daring thing you've done for your career? How did it turn out for you?
I decided to go back to law school when I was 8 years out of college and having three young children. I felt a lot of resistance from friends who thought there was no way I would be able to juggle law school and parenthood. However, with the support of my family, I decided to take the challenge. It turned out better than I could have anticipated. I realized that it was possible to "multitask" on various levels and I believe that I set a great role model for my children (2 are currently practicing attorneys and the third just finished his second year of law school). If you asked my children how they remembered their childhood vis a vis my career, they would each say that I was a mother first. I could not have asked for a better result from the daring decision that I made.
Which project, deal or transaction was the "game changer" in the advancement of your career?
Representing a hotel company in connection with a merger and refinancing of over 100 hotels throughout the United States. It gave me exposure to the practice in numerous states and the transaction had many elements and challenges that could not have been anticipated. It was a overwhelmingly rewarding experience when the deal closed.
What do you consider to be the most successful way to increase referrals?
Make sure your work is always stellar with no mistakes. Make sure your clients feel like they are your only clients and that no task is too great or too small. Make sure you are responsive and honest with them. I always found my best referral source to be existing clients. You quickly develop a reputation among your peers and community and you earn their respect by how you conduct yourself, in and out of the office. You don't realize how quickly your reputation can develop both in a negative and positive way. Always treat opposing counsel with respect. They are a great source of referrals.
What is the BEST advice you have ever received?
Don't let any obstacle stand in your way. If you set your mind to something, go for it. Life is full of challenges, but they should not stop you from achieving your goals.
What is your favorite tip for balanced living?
Set your priorities. If family is important, as it is to me, never lose sight of it. It is possible to have a successful career and an even more successful family life. A lot is also how you perceive things. I look at my career as a challenge, an exciting adventure that is always sharpening my mind. Yes, there are stressful moments, but stress needs to be put into perspective. If something is difficult, think of the enormous satisfaction you will feel when you are able to accomplish your goals.
Where would you like to be in 10 years?
Not too far from where I am now since I love what I do. I am proud of the work that I have been able to accomplish in my 18 years of practicing law, and especially the multi-state exposure that I gained throughout my career. As a native Floridian practicing in New York, I look forward to not only establishing deep roots in the New York real estate market but to, in time, be known as one of the best female real estate attorneys in the State.