Simon of DPC New York: Thinking out of the box

Lori Ann Simon Executive Director DPC New York, Inc., founded 2001 What were your biggest fears when you started out in your profession? My biggest fear was that I would not be able to succeed. Construction and exterior façade restoration were still primarily a male dominated industry when I began in sales, marketing and project management in the early 1990's. I wasn't taken seriously. As more women became property managers and directors of management companies in commercial and residential real estate, bonds were formed and doors began to open. When I was honored with the prestigious Emma Lazarus Award for dynamic business leadership by Associated Builders and Owners of Greater New York, I felt a great thrill of accomplishment. What are you doing differently in 2014 that has had positive impact on your career? I'm no longer hesitant about asking for help or referrals from associates or colleagues. I'm not afraid to fail or to admit that I could have done better. I'm thinking "out of the box" and in a new and positive light. I appreciate the day to day challenges of trying to develop and conduct business in New York City with engineers, architects, owners, developers and property managers. I'm grateful to be working for DPC New York, Inc. as their executive director. They inspire me and I'm thrilled to be affiliated with such a wonderful team of dedicated professionals. What is your favorite quote? "Empowerment. Incredible change happens in your life when you decide to take control of what you do have power over instead of craving control over what you don't." - Dr. Steve Maraboli