50 Under 40 Voices: Bridging the Gap Between Virtual and Real-Life Interaction

Gary Chou, partner at Berkeley Capital Advisors and one of GlobeSt’s recent 50 Under 40 designees, believes his generation brings a unique perspective that straddles both a pre-internet and internet-dominated world. 

“Our generation grew up in a world with far different technological inputs and outputs compared to today,” he says. “In a modern world where the barrage of email, media, social media notifications run out of control – we come from a generation where people still had to meet in person or pick up a phone to dial a landline to reach their friends or family members.”

As part of our conversations with the CRE high-flyers who are under 40, we caught up with Chou to get his thoughts on his generation of professionals, how to make it in CRE and what makes him proud. Here are excerpts from that conversation.

On bridging the gap between virtual and real-life interaction: We are a generation that not only understands and utilizes the power that new technologies provide but still have a great respect for the importance of relationships and the human touch. 

Secrets to success in CRE: To be willing and able to take constructive criticism, have a positive attitude, have a relentless work ethic, and stay consistent.

Achievements to be proud of: Overcoming adversity and working through external challenges with efficiency and tenacity.  

Other sources of pride: On a team and company level, we have built and continue to build a great organization and platform.  I have had the pleasure of working with and mentoring some of the best in the business. 

 Future goals: To continue to set and consistently achieve our goals, grow our organization the right way, and continue to focus on our clients.