I'm a firm believer in the power of mentoring, having benefited greatly from having my own mentors throughout my career. It's gratifying to work with people at different stages in their professional lives. In my mind the most critical role of the mentor is helping people to articulate what their goals are and guiding them in developing the path to achieve them. Providing a secure environment to share goals, test ideas and ask questions is a true professional gift. As leaders and mentors, we also have the opportunity to recognize high performers and develop career paths within the company.

Globest.com: Who was your mentor and how did he or she assist your professional development?

I've been very fortunate to have had many mentors over the years, and all have taught me different things. One common thread that has influenced my own mentoring focus is that they all set aside their own egos to ensure that I received the full benefit of their guidance. That really surprised me, and it is something that I have not forgotten. One of the most valuable skills I learned through being mentored is the importance of cutting through the noise to understand what's probable and what's not, and to focus on what is.

Globest.com: What has been the highlight of your career so far?

I've had many career highlights, but that which has had perhaps the greatest impact on me was Denihan's acquisition of The James brand, its management team and The James Chicago in 2008. That transaction – which literally began as an informal conversation at a business dinner– has also had a significant impact on Denihan overall in terms of spurring additional growth, transforming our operating platform and strengthening our company culture. Denihan was an established company but was newly-formed in 2006 when our brother and sister co-CEOs acquired the enterprise from other Denihan family members. The integration of The James brand and its seasoned management team into the organization invigorated the company at the right time, bringing a new sense of creative thinking and best practices that have made us stronger as a collaborative organization and benefited our entire portfolio.

Globest.com: If you could offer one solid piece of advice to women just entering the field, what would it be?

Don't be afraid. Ask questions. Think: What would you do if you weren't afraid? Position yourself as a person who will do anything within an organization with a smile, whether it's working on a complicated lease or making copies afterhours. This will make you the 'go to' person in a company, a member of the A-team, which will lead to recognition by way of being awarded the best assignments and the opportunity to advance. Always know your audience, whether you are speaking with an individual or a group. And always network – not just externally, but internally as well. Be sure you have friends in the organization. Treat all with the same level of respect: the analyst you're dealing with today could be the CEO of tomorrow.