Feature #114: Dara Williams, Realtor

Name: Dara Williams Current Job Position Title: Realtor Company Name: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices GA properties Contact Information: dara.williams@bhhsga.com  404.266.8100 Special skills: Sales, Real Estate contracts, Contract negotiation, Helping clients sell or buy their homes and making the process seamless Describe your job story:  I had a very hard time when I was younger coming into my own, understanding what my strengths were and realizing what I wanted to do in life career wise. I worked in corporate, I worked retail,  I taught pre-school, you name it. My decision to become a Realtor sort of came to me, and I am not quite sure how or why. I guess you could say it was divine intervention, but I spoke with people in the field, and knew I had skills that would help me do well. I had to make a lot of sacrifices, as many people do to get into the career they want, to get my real estate licensing and qualifications.  It's not an easy field, or for the faint, but I do it because I enjoy working with the many different families, and individuals that I do. It's a joy being apart of one of the biggest purchases some individuals will ever make. It's my job to make sure that they obtain knowledge, get the best deal, save money and are guided every step of the way. That is what motivates me to keep on. This is a 100% commission job, and not many people know  all that is involved financially, however because of this fact, it drives agents to get out there and work hard. Real estate is so interesting, and I love that its ever changing. I think this fact helps me with my success. What did you want to be when you were a child/ teenager?  A lot of things..lol. Fashion designer, Buyer, Business owner etc. Are doing your dream job?  I think my job has variables that point to my dream job, such as working in sales, working a flexible schedule, being out in the field as oppose to an actual cubical...but i think my dream job would include the previously mentioned points plus great financial stability, and the ability to travel to awesome countries. What do you like MOST about what you do? What do you like the LEAST?  What i like most is the interaction with some great people, a flexible schedule, and no office cubicles!! What I like least is the fickleness nature of the job, and that their are no absolutes when it comes to that check!! Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?  It is my goal in the next five years to continue selling real estate and doing a fabulous job at it.  I also see myself having my own business on the side, not quite sure what that will be, but I want it to be geared towards helping those who have no clue what they want to do in life. Are you happy with where you are in life?  I am not going to lie, there are highs and lows. I am thankful for where I am, because I remember where I was. I strive to continue to listen to God's voice and let him lead me. What more do you want to do with your life?  Everything!!! I love travel and I love helping people, and I want to get involved with things that include both of these. I keep a journal and I write out my goals, I continue to add to my goal list. Like reading more. One thing that i am currently working on is inventing something :) What drives/motivates you? I have a desire to leave a legacy, I am not sure where that desire comes from, but i really want to somehow leave behind a product, idea, or concept that helps make life better or more gratifying for others. What else do you do? I have hobbies and friends, and really have a young soul. I try to get out doors and enjoy the joys in life that are a blessing..people, nature, family and friends. What is your advice to those who are seeking employment and have no hope?  Since this is a blog, and I always think that people should be honest, I will say that even now being in my thirties I still haven't figured it all out [in terms of my career..or in any other area for that matter]. For those of you young people who are in high school, college, etc.. really do research, and don't be afraid to dabble in a bit of everything to figure out what it is you want to do. For those of you who know what you want to do, and have known for some time, I admire you. But the others...get internships, bug your college career center's to help you, study abroad, gain mentor-ships, network, shadow people who are in the career you are thinking of. All these things I am sure you have heard before, but the point is..DO IT!!! I did not do most of those things, and I think it adversely affected me. but it's never too late!

Feature #113: Maegan Ella, Spokesmodel

 

Name: Maegan Ella

Current Job Position Title: Spokesmodel

Company Name: Gail & Rice

Contact Information: maegan.ella@gmail.com

Special skills: volleyball, hair, art & crafts, editing

Describe your job story:

I am blessed to be able to travel across the country and talk about cars. I'm able to meet all types of people with different backgrounds in many different locations.

What did you want to be when you were a child/ teenager? News anchor.

Are doing your dream job?

Somewhat, yes. But this is only the beginning. I'm able to shine in the limelight a little while inspiring people, but I'm in the process of making a bigger impact with my talents...just a matter of time and concentration.

What do you like MOST about what you do? What do you like the LEAST?

What I love most is the travel. Seeing all parts of this beautiful country. What I like least about my job is when they lose my luggage! Drives me crazy!

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

In five years, I plan to continue being a spokesmodel, but as well a motivational speaker. Traveling to different countries and inspiring people to shine in their own skin.

Are you happy with where you are in life?

I am. I have a firm grip on what I like and don't like. The more I stay true to me, the more my blessings come my way.

What more do you want to do with your life?

Do more charity work. I'm building a nonprofit now called the Belles of Hope to promote breast cancer awareness, as well as prostate cancer awareness across L.A. First event we did was for the making strides of Santa Monica last October, and my team came up with $1600 plus in a little over three weeks! I was so proud. I have amazing friends and family!

What drives/motivates you? What drives me?

I'm driven by being the best I can be. And the best is not what everyone else thinks "best" is, it's what YOU think best is, for you. And the beauty in that is, is that you are forever growing and learning! So take your time, learn your craft, make mistakes... It's a part of your journey.

What else do you do?
I have a YouTube channel called MaegansWayinLA that I record weekly on with current tops and how-to's— my favorite thing to do right now ;)

What is your advice to those who are seeking employment and have no hope?
If you have to start at the bottom, then do it. Starting from the bottom builds character. It's shows a person that with hard work and dedication, you can achieve anything. Hey! My first job was Taco Bell in Talladega, Al, and look at me now! Being paid to speak across the country and be me!