NWA Women in Business: Lisa Darling
Residence: Fayetteville
Education: BBA, marketing and international business, Florida International University
Professional background: Originally from Miami, Darling moved to Northwest Arkansas in 1995. Soon she joined Procter & Gamble thinking she’d be there for six months while making friends in the area. Six months became a nearly 20-year career on P&G’s Walmart team. Her work at P&G was in international sales support, community relations, and disaster relief. In 2016 she became a Realtor and in 2018 became an executive broker, and she consistently ranks in the top 5% of Northwest Arkansas Realtors.
What was your dream job as a kid, and why? I always thought I would become an attorney. As a preteen I envisioned myself boarding a private jet and traveling around the country visiting clients. While law school wasn’t to be, my work as a real estate broker allows me to serve others every single day — clients as well as agents.
What inspired you to pursue the career you are in? After 20 years at P&G, I wasn’t quite ready to retire. Real estate wasn’t my first choice, yet it seemed to offer the right balance of flexibility and an opportunity to serve others.
Who are the key types of people (mentors, sponsors, peers) you keep in your inner circle
to help you stay grounded and sharp? Over the years, I have had the privilege of building strong relationships with local community leaders, nonprofit executives and corporate professionals — many of whom remain valued members of my network today.
I have also been mentored by some of the most talented real estate professionals and professional coaches who have generously poured into me and my success. I mastermind often with several colleagues at Keller Williams to learn and share best practices.
What is the best leadership advice you have ever received? Invest in yourself, believe in yourself, and invest in others. Learn how to do hard things well and deal with issues head-on.
What advice can you offer to women who want a career in your industry? Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you who are willing to invest in your success. Be learning-based and be a resource for others who are starting out.
How do you take care of yourself and maintain good mental health? I am blessed to have a wonderfully supportive husband who keeps me grounded and positive. Time is precious and finite. As hard as I try, it’s not easy to get the diet right, exercise regularly, and take time off to rest. I have four guilty pleasures: my grandkids, cycling, gardening and painting. My mother was an artist, and I was surprised to discover that some of her artistic talents have been passed on to me.
Can you share a time you took a significant career risk? What did you weigh before making that move? In 2015, I was eligible to retire from P&G when the manager who originally hired me called and asked me to join his local startup to help manage its growth. I knew him well and trusted him. After briefly researching the company, everything pointed in a positive direction. The salary and benefits package were fair, so I accepted the role. Just two months later, the layoffs began. I was the last to go, but it was an experience I wasn’t fully prepared for. As the saying goes: Behind every door that closes, another one opens. Had this layoff not occurred, I would not be a Realtor today.
What is the best book you’ve read recently? “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara. My team stays in touch with our clients long after the sale. One of our clients, a hospitality professor at the University of Arkansas, said, “Lisa, you take care of your clients so well. You need to read ‘Unreasonable Hospitality.’” It’s about exceeding expectations in unexpected ways and is truly inspiring. I recommend it often.
What time do you wake up in the morning? I’m usually up by 6 a.m. so I can join a 6:30 a.m. training call.
What’s your favorite restaurant in Northwest Arkansas? Havana Tropical Grill in Rogers hands down! I was raised on Cuban and Caribbean food. Havana Tropical Grill is truly authentic.
What’s the next big personal or career challenge you plan to take on? I have a few upcoming personal challenges and goals: Remain healthy with a positive mindset and travel more with my husband — bucket list. I also want to be a resource for women, help them grow and learn in ways they feel they need, help them understand the fundamentals of personal finance, and help them start anew when times are tough by helping them connect the dots and find resources.