Q&A with Tom Rossiter, Forty Under 40 Winner 2021; CEO, Resaas Services Inc., Age 38
Who or what is responsible for your work ethic?
I learned pretty early in my career that working smart goes a long way. It’s also very clear how many successful people start earlier in their day than most, and are never late.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Wine.
What is the best book you would recommend?
Reading is so important. It’s something I encourage my kids to do as much as possible. Where else can you absorb so much knowledge from others? For business books, I’m a fan of Jim Collins — his books have findings we should all apply in the workplace.
Now that you are (or are close to) entering your forties, what goals have you set for yourself?
Last year’s pandemic made many of us evaluate how we spend our time. Entrepreneurs’ forties are prime time for business growth and accomplishments, but it’s also a time where it’s important to be there for your young family. Continuing the theme above about working smart, balance is so important.
What was your childhood career dream?
A career in motorsport. I tell myself it’s still on hold.
Name your happiest place.
The mountains.
What was your toughest business or professional decision?
I place a lot of importance on people, so anything that affects others negatively is challenging. Success in business feels great and is more widely shared, but what often isn’t seen are all the tough times. The life of an entrepreneur is inherently up and down.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Be more focused on fewer things; you will achieve so much more.
What is your best habit?
I’m pretty good at remembering to hold the door open for others.
Tell us one improbable fact about yourself.
I have this incredible ability to tell if people are left-handed by the way they walk.
Best piece of advice ever received?
People have two ears and one mouth for a reason. Listen more.
Biggest learning (about life or business) during the pandemic?
The pandemic made us all realize how much we took travel for granted before, whether it be for last-minute business trips or the ability to go and visit loved ones. We should value travel more than we did.
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Resaas, the public company we started here in Vancouver, has accomplished so much. People told us we couldn’t possibly unite an industry as competitive and fragmented as real estate. Well, our team pulled it off! Today we have over 500,000 real estate agents in 160 countries using our platform.
