President and CEO Mary Lee Blaylock describes her management style as collaborative, honest, decisive, and kind, four words that anyone who has worked with her can certainly agree with.

On this episode of Real Estate Leaders and Legends, hosted by the California Association of REALTORS, Mary Lee was the guest of honor.

In this episode, Mary Lee shares lessons she has learned throughout her career, advice she has for women who aspire to be leaders in any industry, and why effective communication is the key to success.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the answers she gives, or you can listen to the full podcast below.

On lessons learned

Mary Lee is a firm believer in communication. She says that “at the heart of every good service provider is a good relationship” and strives for honest and good feedback on both sides.

On who impacted her career

Specifically naming her father, her brother, and her business mentor Ron Peltier, Chairman and CEO of HomeServices of America, Mary Lee feels blessed to have countless influences.

Her father always told her that if someone isn’t willing to roll up their sleeves and do the job, then they shouldn’t expect anyone else to do it.

On giving advice to new agents

She says that in today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to think success will come quickly. Her advice? Find something that works for you and be consistent. It takes months and years of persistence.

On what it means to be a woman in power

“It’s an incredible honor to be a woman in this position and it feels good,” she said, adding that she’s glad her sons get to experience their mom in this role.

To women who want to take their next step in their career she says: “You can do it if you believe you can do it.”

On her morning ritual

Mary Lee says her day starts at 5 a.m. and that she really values her quiet time in the morning. It’s important to her to take time to center herself and be grateful for her opportunities.

Listen to the full podcast below.

Follow Mary Lee on Facebook.