Stephanie Pfeffer Anton learned a critical lesson last year.

“I learned to look at my work/life balance to see if it work was running me, or if I was running it,” she said. “I learned to step back and have a more balanced approach.”

That’s no small feat for someone whose career has spanned fifteen years. And as Executive Vice President, Luxury Portfolio International – ‎Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Stephanie has helped to grow a brand that has redefined luxury behind the living space, and is leading the charge for a novel, experiential approach to high end real estate.

Graduating from Northwestern University with a masters degree in marketing, Stephanie was no stranger to real estate. Her father was a developer. But her own introduction to real estate was a more testament to the power of networking with your sphere of influence. “My mother’s neighbor worked for a real estate broker, and she ultimately made a connection at a Christmas party that led to many of the professional relationships I have today.”

Today, Stephanie Pfeffer Anton is an eye-witness to the evolution of the real estate industry.

“In 2001, I was Director of Communications and Internet for a real estate franchiser — and yes, that was the actual title! We required agents to have an email address for their login. But very few agents even had one yet. I remember trying to convince people to get an email address!”

But today, she noted, technology has changed the face of the industry — including how agents interface with consumers.

Part of that interface is how real estate is marketed. “Real estate marketing has become very experiential,” Stephanie said. It’s not about one direct mail piece or even one email. It’s online, offline, mobile and even events. “You need to be so much more integrated. It’s become 360 degrees — not just a one-way conversation.”

So what energizes Stephanie in this industry?

“One of the people I’m most inspired by is Pam O’Connor,” Stephanie said about the president and CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World. “I’m so proud to work for her. She works harder than anybody I know. She’s so genuine, bright and capable. I learn from her example.”

Stephanie does indeed, as her own focus is on sharing lessons. And her experience earned her a place on the Inman Top 101, a list of industry leaders who are recognized for driving industry change through ingenuity, outspokenness, strength, conviction, power and persistence.

But what about that balanced approach she mentioned? Well, the key is to focus on what moves you.

“People want to work with people that love what they do. So I tell my agents, make sure your clients know that you love what you do, and why you love it. And if you don’t love it… it’s time to look closely at that. Because life is too short!”