Twenty In Their 20s: JILLIENE HELMAN

0

What led you to start your own company?

My dad. My father is a serial entrepreneur and I’ve wanted to build my own business since I was a kid growing up in an entrepreneurial family.

Where did you get the startup money?

I had more than 100 coffee meetings with investors to raise our seed round –$1 million – and I don’t even drink caffeine. In the end, our startup money came from a mix of friends, family and professional real estate investors who believe in our vision.

What was the biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge was not doubting myself. After you hear “no” more than 100 times, you start to wonder if your idea has merit. Every entrepreneur has to persevere. Passion and persistence are two qualities entrepreneurs must have and it’s good to be challenged and tried; it builds character.

How many hours a day do you put in?

On average, 14 to 15 hours a day, including at least one day on the weekends.

Does your youth lead to awkward situations, such as when you supervise older workers?

I find that when you treat employees with respect, age just does not matter.

Will you start another company?

Absolutely. Launching a company is the most fun I’ve ever had.

Could you ever work for someone else?

Yes. Surprisingly, I’m a very good employee. If I get passionate around a vision, I love to work.

What do you do to relax?

I’m terrible at relaxing. Ask me in a few years when we’re profitable.

JILLIENE HELMAN, 27

Realty Mogul, crowdfunding site for real estate, Beverly Hills

Employees: 15

Financials: Not profitable yet.

No posts to display