Irina Kim Sang, a broker associate with Coldwell Banker Miami Beach.

What was your first job in the realty industry? Marketing Manager at “The Jills Team”, the No.1 Team at Caldwell Banker.

Where did you grow up? I was born in Kazakhstan, educated in the USA and Netherlands.

What do you do to relax when you’re stressed? In order to relax I prefer reading, drawing, brainstorming on different business ventures, professionally playing ping-pong, generating ideas on Pinetrest and designing electronic photo books. I am also very consistent with my exercise routines at the gym.

Growing up, what did you want to be? From my early childhood memories I always wanted to teach and be in front of the public.

If you could have lunch with a well-known figure (living or not), who would it be and why? I would love to meet Steve Jobs and get insights on his creative marketing genius. I would also like to have lunch with Barbara Corcoran for her entrepreneurial spirit.

Where is your favorite place to hang out? On a cruise, specifically the Oasis Class of Ships.

What do you love most about the industry? I love that real estate is all about building perception through intelligent marketing and branding.

How do you distinguish yourself from the crowd of agents? I’m focused, specialized, branded and always keeping up with technology. I am a marketer from head to toe. For me it doesn’t matter what to market: a toothpick or an elephant, I consider myself a marketing expert. This is a result of my 15 years of  corporate marketing and marketing consulting, as well as teaching marketing at different universities. Currently my marketing niche is affluent Russian speaking clients.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The human factor; a successful realtor must have great social and communication skills.

Where do you go to network and meet new clients? I go to unrelated industry groups, for example I am an affiliate member of the AIA (American Institute of Architects.) In addition to taking leadership roles on two boards, I build relationships outside traditional realtor circles.

What has been your greatest accomplishment? My $9 million sale after being in business for less than two years. The Russian client interviewed 20 agents before he had chosen me.

What was the last good movie you saw or book you read? My own book [REALTOR BRANDING: Marketing Yourself for REAL ESTATE SUCCESS.]

What is your favorite restaurant? I love all oriental cuisines, especially Thai and Korean.

Architecturally speaking, what is your favorite building in Miami? Regalia Ocean Front Condo – I believe this is the most unique building in Miami.

What kind of car do you drive? A Lexus RX 350.

Smartphone or paper? Both, I still love to write and draw my midmaps using color pens.

What is your favorite city after Miami? Dubai and Washington DC.

In 10 words or less, what is your advice for someone new to the industry? Start investing into your brand, be good, be true, be the real you.

What’s your favorite real estate iPhone/Android app? RPR.

Who are your favorite people to follow on Twitter? I am not an active Twitter user, I am very selective on social media.