Name: Constance Racanelli Title: President Company/firm: Con Rac Construction Group, LLC Years with company/firm: 11 months (Company newly formed in 2010) Years in field: 12 years Years in real estate industry: 12 years Address: 1895 Walt Whitman Road, Suite 2, Melville, NY 11747 Telephone: 631-756-0101 Email: [email protected] URL: www.ConRacGroup.com Real estate organizations / affiliations: Professional Women in Construction, US Green Building Council What was your greatest professional accomplishment in 2010? Forming my own company, Con Rac Construction Group, LLC has been a personal achievement of which I am very proud. Developing a sound business plan, building a strong team, and beginning the marketing and networking essential to its success have been very rewarding. What was your most notable project, deal or transaction in 2010? Since we are still a young company, laying the groundwork for Con Rac to be in position for new projects across various categories has been our top priority. Additionally, we did a project for Estee Lauder. How do you contribute to your company and / or the industry? As for the company, I am making decisions that will advance Con Rac's corporate goals not only on a short-term basis, but toward sustaining long-term viability. As for the industry, I am participating in lobbying efforts on behalf of women and minority-owned businesses in the construction industry. What advice would you give to women just starting out in commercial real estate? Be persistent and continue to learn. You can't give up when things becoming difficult or you face unexpected obstacles. It's important to remain on your own course and persist toward your achieving your goals. Continuing education should be viewed as a necessity as staying current in your industry knowledge will enable you to perform at your best and also open doors to new opportunities and advancement. It's also important to maintain an assertive, confident posture. How do you manage the work/life balance? By prioritizing and maintaining a schedule that incorporates both professional and personal plans. I never allow one aspect of my life to transcend or overcome the other. I believe the balance it what makes you successful in all areas of your life. Who or what has been the strongest influence on your career? My brothers, Nick, Michael, Richard and Martin, Jr. Racanelli, principals of Racanelli Construction Company, Inc. They have had a strong influence on me by being available to lend professional support and guidance and motivating me to take the initiative and start my own construction company. What impact has social networking had on your business? It has had a tremendous impact especially in this early phase of our company's development. I believe networking is imperative. It keeps you abreast of the competition, helps stimulate new relationships and leads to new opportunities - all critical particularly in a challenging economy.