Who is Cathy Whittaker, could you please introduce yourself?

I am a devoted mom, an active volunteer in the Oakville community and a successful real estate agent.  As a proud Mother I am actively involved in my kids lives and as a member of the Royal LePage family, my values of integrity, professionalism, and reliability are the foundation of my commitment to providing outstanding client service.

What is your business and when did you start?

After many years working as a law clerk in downtown Toronto I decided to switch gears and pursue a career as a real estate agent in 2010.

What inspired you to start your business?

With a keen interest in real estate, a strong legal background, and a genuine interest in helping others I was inspired to make real estate my career.  My goal was to have a fulfilling career that would give me the opportunity  to provide for my family financially while allowing me the flexibility to spend quality time with my children.

What were the challenges in the initial stages of your business and how did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge was feeling comfortable putting myself out there to meet new people, make connections and find clients.  Being consistent in introducing myself as a trusted real estate agent living and working in the community in which I live was key to overcoming this.  From the beginning, I set goals for myself and committed to networking and filling my funnel each and every day and this is what I still do today.

What motivates you about your business?

My eyes light up when I can help people realize their dreams of home ownership, help people relocate, or help people through difficult transitions in their lives.  Moving can be stressful regardless of the reason. I am motivated to make working with me an experience that brings joy into my clients’ lives.

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?

Create a strong support network.  Building a business is not for the faint of heart and by becoming strong supporter of your community and joining networks, such as Mom2Mom Biz, you meet likeminded individuals and entrepreneurs that you can learn from and lean on for support while building a referral network.

Interesting fact most of the people do not know about you?

Many probably do not know that I am the current President of the Rotary Club of Oakville Trafalgar. By being a part of Rotary I get to help effect positive change both locally and internationally. I have been a proud member of my Rotary Club since 2014.

The best business advice I ever received was…

to set aside time each and every day to connect with others, meet new people and strengthen relationships. “Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant”.

My definition of success is…

having work, life, community balance.  To be able to make enough money to support my family, to spend quality time with family and friends, and be able to contribute to the community through my volunteer efforts in a substantial way.

If I could go back in time when I started my business, I would tell myself to…

Don’t waste time thinking  “if only” and wishing for something to happen – focus your energies on the process and success with come.

My personal tagline is…

By “Building Relationships Daily” I am able to boost and strengthen connections with my clients, my prospects and my network and in turn provide personalized, professional service each day.