Melissa Metro, VVA

Name: Melissa Metro Title: Associate Project Manager Company: VVA Inc. Address: 117 East 31st St., New York, NY What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2010? Surviving the depressed market and transitioning into new and unfamiliar territory as a project manager. What was your most notable project, deal or transaction in 2010? KJ/Ramaz Synagogue and School renovation-a three-year phased project that will continue into 2012. How do you contribute to your company and / or the industry? By being honest, dedicated and carrying with me a sense of humor. What advice would you give to women just starting out in commercial real estate? Be tough - but be fair. Be intelligent - but never a know it all. Ask questions and don't be afraid to be wrong. Remember that you can find answers wherever you need them. This industry can be intimidating on many levels -keep your confidence but don't ever use your power to make others feel insignificant. How do you manage the work/life balance? Very well. I've learned over time that work and life must coexist in intensity. Some people never learn this - I feel sorry for them. Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career? The hundreds of honest, dedicated individuals I've met along the way and my family who taught me my values and work ethic. I've also been highly influenced by those who were/are dishonest, lazy and self-centered. They're a reminder that I've made the right decisions and will continue to do so for the remainder of my career. What impact has social networking had on your business? So far, so good. It's one of my absolute favorite parts of this job.