Matt Leonelli
Sheldon Gross Realty, Inc.
Assistant Vice President
Years with company/firm: 8
Years in field: 8
Years in real estate: 9
What advice would you give to a young professional graduating from college today? Always invest the time and effort necessary to cultivate relationships. People are inclined to do business with individuals they like, feel comfortable with, and trust. So, the very last thing you want to be is a stranger or outsider.
Who has had the strongest influence on you and your career? My parents undoubtedly have had a greater impact on my life than anyone else. It’s not an exaggeration to say that they molded how I view and understand the world around me. That said, since I began working for Sheldon Gross Realty, Executive Vice President Jonathan Glick has been my mentor. He’s taught me a tremendous amount about the entire commercial real estate field. Jonathan’s the consummate professional, and without his consistent guidance, I’d be far less capable than I am today.
What unique qualities or personality traits do you believe make you successful in your professions? Two things come to mind – and they’re not closely related. First, there’s creative thinking. To be effective in whatever you do, you need to develop new ways of approaching a challenge that differ from what everyone else is doing. Second, there’s empathy, which I’d define as the capacity to understand someone else’s perspective and then adjust your mindset accordingly.
What were some of your early goals and did anything happen to change them? From the start, I knew I wanted to build solid, foundational relationships, and have a strongly positive reputation among brokers as well as clients. I wanted to be the person everyone enjoyed doing deals with. And nothing has really changed – those remain my primary business goals.
Professionally, what has been your greatest accomplishment? I’d have to say working with Jersey Holdings’ Monmouth County Portfolio. I’ve added significant value for my client, having signed more than 40 distinct leases.
What outside activities do you enjoy during your free time? I really love being outside, so if I can find the time for fishing and boating, plus some camping, I’ll aways do it. It’s relaxing, and actually reduces my stress. Beyond that, I’m a proud father, and I love taking out my daughter as frequently as possible.