For Brown Harris Stevens CEO Bess Freedman, work is centered on one thing: people. Her daily routine, which she recently shared with Found NYC , prioritizes catching up with Brown Harris Stevens colleagues and executives in person.

"Real estate is a relationship business, and to build strong relationships, it helps to be in person." – Brown Harris Stevens CEO Bess Freedman 

Freedman also included some NYC restaurant recommendations that are an absolute must for your next working lunch or celebratory gathering. You can read an excerpt of the article below. 

It’s Tuesday morning, where are you working?

I'm in my office at 445 Park Avenue. I don’t believe in WFH — I despise it. Real estate is a relationship business, and to build strong relationships, it helps to be in person. I also think it's nearly impossible to build culture over Zoom calls.

What’s the Tuesday morning scene at your workplace?

As soon as I get to the office, I make a cup of coffee, and read the papers. The morning scene is fairly chaotic. Lots of phone calls, some Zooms, a few in-person meetings. Arriving around 8 allows me a little time to prepare. I like to walk the halls to see who's in, so I usually do that when I get a break from my schedule. I love seeing people in person… catching up, sharing a story, a hug, connecting. It’s why I do what I do — the people!

What’s for lunch?

Today I have lunch with an agent at Bilboquet. I love it there, because it's fast (and good). I LOVE their French fries, and they have great salads, and fresh fish. Also, the staff is impeccable… Incredible service. 

Read the full article here. To learn more about Brown Harris Stevens CEO Bess Freedman and her background, click here.