IRVINE, CA—Begin with the end in mind in order to wind up where you want to be careerwise is the advice Stillwater Investment Group's president and founder John Drachman would give to other young professionals starting out in CRE. Drachman was recently named by NAIOP as one of 15 young professionals to receive its prestigious 2015 Developing Leaders Award. We sat down with Drachman for an exclusive chat about his success and what he would say to other professionals under the age of 35 who are starting out in CRE.

GlobeSt.com: What do you credit for your great success at such a young age?

Drachman: I have had a vision for my career from right when I first entered the real estate business and have done everything possible to turn that vision into a reality. I am constantly seeking ways in which to learn from others and have been willing to take risks with my career in order to get to where I am today. I also believe the real estate business favors internal drive and passion over experience more so than other industries, which has been a benefit to me.      

GlobeSt.com: What is the best piece of advice you ever received in this business?

Drachman: Relationships and your reputation are the two most important assets you have in this business. Do everything possible to never lose either one.    

GlobeSt.com: What have your mentors taught you that put you on a track to success?

Drachman: I have been fortunate to have many different mentors in this business and I have learned that it is not where you start but where you finish. If you work hard with a strong vision for what you want to accomplish, you can be successful in real estate. I have also learned that in order to succeed, you have to be willing to take risks, but make sure they are calculated risks. 

GlobeSt.com: What advice would you give to young professionals just entering the business?

Drachman: Begin with the end in mind. Think about where you see yourself at the end of your career, and then just work backwards in terms of how to get there. Meet with people who have accomplished what you want to accomplish and ask them how they did it. Older people usually love giving young people advice on how to be successful. I would also get highly involved within the industry with organizations such as NAIOP both on a local and national basis since the people you meet in these organizations can be the best way to learn the business and build relationships. The best investment you can ever make is investing in yourself.