We had the good fortune of connecting with DAVID LANE and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi DAVID, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Come from a family of entrepreneurs and working for someone was not something I wanted. Always thought that to make money you must be close to where the money is. So, I decided to start working in the corporate sector of a bank to get experience at someone else’s expense. First, I needed to figure out what I was good at and then find a way to monetize that. I quickly realized that I could open doors and get to people who make the final decisions. Then I spent time figuring out how to match that to the business opportunities that I liked and had access to. It took several years to finally sharpen my skills and my direction. Did a lot of reading, and attended many conferences, anything that would sharpen my skills. I also failed many times. Failing was important because it taught me to do research, change direction, and sharpen my skills. It made me better. I finally settled in the Real Estate sector. First with traditional brokerage and subsequently the investment and private equity space.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Our company has been in business for over 20 years. We have a very extensive network of very capable, professional, and successful individuals. This is what I am most proud of. The people we work with are more than just contacts. We have a personal relationship besides the professional one. Our families know each other, and we get together from time to time for family and friend’s time. This business is very demanding. I can’t say it was easy, but it wasn’t difficult either. I enjoy what I do and even in difficult times, it’s exciting to keep going. The most important thing for me in this business is my personal relationships with the people I do business with. It is easier and more exciting when you work with people you like and respect on a personal basis not just as a professional.
I learned that life is not static and if you keep going and do the work required, you eventually get where you want to go. The people we choose to do business with can either make it easier or not. With me , they become an extension of our family.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The first thing is to know your friends’ likes and dislikes. I would only take him to places he/she would enjoy. I like eating out. One of my favorite places I would share is Hutong in Brickell; it is a Chinese restaurant that has a spectacular menu. Going out on a boat would also be essential. Miami has many interesting places like Calle 8, Wynwood, and the Design District. There are several museums and historic places to visit as well. Mostly I want them to feel at home.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Beth Butler and Janie Coffey at One Sotheby’s helped me see the business from a different perspective. These women are tremendously smart, hard workers, and very successful. I appreciate the time they spent with me.
Website: www.21cig.com / www.21cig.capital
Instagram: davidlane.21cig.miami
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidavilalane/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/21CIG
Other: WeChat: Dalane567