Myrna Rothman is the Senior Vice President at Otis & Ahearn Real Estate.

What was your first job in the realty industry? As a salesperson in the suburbs.

Where did you grow up? Brighton, Ill.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? I read a  good book, take a long walk or watch a favorite TV show.

Growing up, what did you want to be? Nothing in particular; I went to school to be a dental assistant, which I did. But after having my children my mom passed away and I sold the family home in Brighton. After I thought, “I like this real estate thing.” That was in 1985, and the rest is history.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? Barbra Streisand.  I have loved her voice and style since I was very young and I love all her music. Her movies are also some of my favorites.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? Cape Cod with my family, when I can get there.

What do you love most about the industry? The people. I truly love meeting new people and helping them purchase one of the biggest investments of their lives. It can really be rewarding and I don’t mean just on the monetary side.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? Through service. I am there for whatever you need, I always answer my phone and respond as quickly as possible. I think the personal interest that I take with all my clients, whether they’re buyers or sellers, has served me very well. A testament to that is how many referrals I get. It’s really the meat of your business. The other point is knowledge: it is power. You need to know what you’re talking about to make sure that your clients make good decisions.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? I guess every broker would say rejection. You need to have tough skin to do this job or it isn’t the job for you. You also have to be a person who doesn’t require a specific schedule because you never know what tomorrow will bring.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I live in a high-rise building, and that’s where a lot of my business is conducted. I have lived there for 15 years so I know many people and have many friends. I  also go to many functions to network and meet new people.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? I love my job, but my family – four children and grandchildren – will always be my greatest accomplishment. With that said, real estate has opened a world to me for the 30 years I’ve been practicing that I could never have imagined. I have met amazing people in this timespan.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? I loved the book “Cutting For Stone.” I thought the movie “Room” was beautifully acted. While depressing, it was inspiring.

What is your favorite restaurant? Mama’s Fish House in Maui, Hawaii. (Best in the world, I think.)

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Boston? I am mesmerized by the Custom House. I just love the shape and how it looks on the skyline.

What kind of car do you drive? A BMW.

Smartphone or paper? Smartphone.

What is your favorite city after boston? San Francisco.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Work hard, be sincere and always tell the truth. (You never have to remember what you said!)

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? My Samsung Galaxy s6

Who are your favorite people to follow on twitter? Absolutely no one. I dislike it.