We had the good fortune of connecting with Jesamine De Guzman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jesamine, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
The bigger the risk, the bigger the reward. Although the quote is a bit cliché, it’s something I’ve lived by. By working in different industries (like law, marketing & real estate), I was always presented with a variety of obstacles each day.

Years ago I applied to become a Case Manager for a law firm. Instead, they hired me as a Marketing Associate. I had never worked in marketing whatsoever. Why me? The four interviewers in that meeting decided that, after meeting me and learning more about who I was, decided I would best fit the marketing role. They had a message and felt I was the best to help deliver it.

“To tell great stories, you need great talent.”

Had I not taken that risk of taking on a new role, I would not have been the website-creating, coding, marketing professional I am today. It’s because of that risk I was able to learn so much more about bringing out the absolute best in every business, including my own.

“The biggest risk is not taking any risk… In a world that is changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking any risks.” – Mark Zuckerberg

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Living in such a populous and opportunity-filled city, I eventually gained my real estate sales license. Being in marketing and real estate, I was often in male-dominated work environments. While not all male-dominated work environments are toxic, I will at least say it was a memorable learning experience.

It was like watching someone win a Grammy for a song I wrote. Zero recognition and the least incentivized. Here, I was creating and maintaining websites, coordinating listings and escrows from start to finish, creating all the marketing material, resources and everything in between. I have my professional background to thank for pushing me to my limits. Because of these pushes and moments of discomfort, I was able to quickly learn how to survive and be the very best at it. It certainly wasn’t easy. Rather, it was another challenge accepted.

Had I not taken that risk of leaving the firms that undermined me, I would not have joined the loving brokerage that I’m with now.

Had I not taken that risk of discomfort, I wouldn’t have learned how strong I truly was.

Had I not taken that risk, I would not have become one of the youngest Commercial Realtors in my branch.

It was because of that risk, I was able to achieve my Commercial certification within the first three months of my transition.

Had I not taken that risk, I would’ve never learned that you’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with.

Had I not taken so many risks, I would not have realized my true potential – and it’s growing with every challenge I accept.

It’s because of those risks, I am so thankful for my path and look forward to what challenge comes next.

“Risk-taking is essential, innovation is vital, and true innovation only occurs when people have courage.” -Robert Iger

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were in town (all the way from Australia!!), there would be an endless itinerary of excursions and endeavors. While the list is quite extensive, below are some of the must-do’s.

• Dim Sum in San Gabriel Valley
• Mimosa-filled brunches in West Hollywood
• Sunsets at Manhattan & Treasure Island beach
• Scenic hikes at Laguna Beach’s Top of the World
• Jet skis from Long Beach to Catalina Island
• Watch the Corgi Race in Long Beach
• Disneyland & Universal Studios
• Movie night & dinner with mum and friends
• Booze-filled strolls though Huntington Gardens
• Lobster rolls at Smorgasborg; and
• Soju & bbq night in Koreatown

It’s only right!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to my hardworking, single, passionate, dedicated and strong mother. I’ll never forget how you raised me alone and how you were able to show me the world. You work so hard. Thank you.

Website: www.realtorjes.com

Instagram: @jesawho

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jesamine-de-leon-007004

Facebook: www.facebook.com/realtorjesamine

Image Credits
Osei Key

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