Katharina Ehrnsperger, Associate Vice President
What is your favorite app, and your favorite electronic gadget?
My favorite app is called eBay Kleinanzeigen, and it’s basically your local newspaper search and find page. I mainly sell because I have had some “I buy every kitsch I see” periods in my life. Among some of the fun things I sold included side-car mirror extensions for when you drive with a caravan and a construction site radio. The customer was a guy in Belarus.
My favorite electronic gadget is GPS because, quite honestly, I would be completely lost without it. I remember looking for the Chicago Finn Partners office for two hours and basically passed the building five times…. I don’t just want it, I need GPS!
What was the most recent book you enjoyed?
I’m reading a “funny” parenting book that I received from my aunt. It’s by a German comedian and it isn’t funny whatsoever! So, I will not accept any more book gifts from my aunt. I am also currently reading a book in Swedish called Viskande skuggor (Whispering Shadows) by Jan-Philipp Sendker. It is very Interesting because it takes place in Hong Kong, and I always wanted to go there.
Which news sites/outlets do you check regularly?
I always read the news while having my first cup of coffee. I read German and Swedish news to be up-to-date with both countries – the one I come from, the other I live in. Fun story: as kids we were never allowed to speak to Grandpa when he was watching the evening news – it was serious business for him!
What would be your splurge meal, and at what restaurant?
I am vegetarian – not a healthy one though: I love my cheese pizza (a lot!) and when I was in New York I ate more than my share of slices. I had to have my gall bladder removed two weeks later. Coincidence? We will never know for sure…
What song gets you pumped?
Anything from Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra and Glenn Miller makes me start moving (and, no, I am not 100 years old – I just love the classics!).
What is the one professional development tip that has been invaluable to you?
Never sell something that you are not 100% convinced of, and never say something that you don’t believe yourself. Your clients will surely notice and eventually lose trust. Be honest, be kind and be yourself. If you do this, you will have long lasting client relationships.
What three things would you want most if stranded on a desert island?
Beer (I am born and raised Bavarian), my pug Alfonso to keep me company and a booklet with Sudokus because I never get tired of them.