A Sales Executive and business coach, Sue Melton came to real estate five years ago after 30 years in retail. She has worked as a vice president regional director, store manager and buyer for Macy’s, Federated Stores and Neiman Marcus, and sees similarities between real estate and retail as service industries. With six children – the youngest now 17 years of age – and an active role in the non-profit world in addition to her “regular job,” Melton is a unique role model for women who seek a positive work-life balance.
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Sue, what is your role as a Sales Executive?
At Realty Executives, agents are known as Executives. In that role, I focus especially on people in transition: sellers who are downsizing, people who are retiring and may be moving across the country. It’s really a continuation of my entrepreneurial career in personal coaching and visioning. I help people answer the questions, “where do I live?” What does that look like, feel like, smell like … what can I do to afford that lifestyle? I help them make good decisions.
You said you have been in real estate for five years. How does the real estate industry compare to your prior career?
I spent 30 years in corporate retail, as a buyer for upscale stores such as Macy’s, Federated, and Neiman’s in Scottsdale. Retail is a service industry. When you’re in the fitting room with someone – whether she is buying a $10,000 ballgown or a $50 pair of jeans – you get to know your client. You have to understand their needs. It takes listening, and being a part of their paradigm. I also have a background in business planning, personal coaching and strategies. Dealing more with buyers keeps me in a “coaching” role as an “ear.”
My husband, Glenn Melton, is Chief Operating Officer of Realty Executives International. He joined Realty Executives three years ago after a career with Mercedes Benz. I came on board two years ago in the Scottsdale office as an Executive.
How do you handle the work-life balance that comes with a demanding profession?
I have six children – five boys and one girl, and it was quite a houseful when they were growing up. They now range in age from 17 to 28 years old. I also am quite active in the nonprofit world, working with several groups here in the Scottsdale area. In addition, I was quite fortunate to be able to travel to Africa, where I visited Zambia with the foundation I created to help its people develop sustainable business enterprises. Africa is very exciting because the people there have so little … and yet they have so much to share.
As far as my real estate career, I find it very empowering. The rewards are so incredible. But what I understand is that work is merely a means to an end. What balance means is that your career is an avenue to provide for others. I’m proud that my kids are involved in realizing they can be part of a solution. One of my sons just returned from Guatemala, where he spent nine months teaching math in a very small village. Another son just spent time in Peru. They enjoy learning about other cultures.
It is very rewarding to have the opportunities afforded to me by having a high-profile career.
Throughout your career, have you had any mentors who helped guide you?
Yes. Terry Lundgren, who is CEO of Federated Stores, taught me to listen and implement my dreams. I also credit Sandra Wilken, a nationally known luxury broker I worked for.
Do you have any “words of wisdom” for women who are driving for success in their careers?
First, find your passion. You will never be successful if you don’t. Second, laugh every day. It’s especially valuable to learn to laugh at yourself. Third, find adventure in life.
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