b'WOMEN IN BUSINESS: SECRET INGREDIENTSecret IngredientBusy entrepreneurs have a recipe for making their businesses stand out. They adjust it as neededmixing it with changing client needs, stirring in shifts from the economy, sprinkling in new technologies and folding in fresh opportunities as they arise. But every recipe has one essential element that never changes: the secret ingredient that gives a business its distinct flavor and keeps it thriving. Read about each business owners secret ingredient and why it is vital to their ongoing success.Profiles by Ellen DonkerHeadshots by Julia Maloof VerderosaSECRET INGREDIENTProfessionalismAnn LaskowskiLASKOWSKI AND CO AT COMPASS1200 Morris Turnpike, Short Hills917.586.3018 | laskowskiandco.comCOOKING TIME: 8 YEARS SERVES: INDIVIDUALSMy business is built on personal connections that I balance with the profes-sionalism major financial decisions deserve. Since buying or selling a home isseriousbusinessthatimpactspeopleslivesandwealth,myclientswill alwaysfindmepreparedwithharddata,suchascomparablesalesand market trends, to guide informed choices. This enables me to foster trust so clients are confident that I can successfully guide them through the transaction. 24/ matters magazine / fall 2025'