Mari shares her journey from being a people pleaser to finding her true calling as an Account Executive, where her honesty and integrity finally paid off.
When Women Found Courage In A Moment Of Total Uncertainty
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I overcame fear by thinking "what do I have to lose?" and embracing the mindset that if it doesn't work out, at least I tried something new.
Maricela Bazan · In Her Own Words
From How She Did It
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Her Story
About Maricela
Maricela “Mari” Bazan is an experienced Account Executive at Proper Title LLC, based in Chicago, where she helps clients navigate the real estate and title insurance industry. A Chicago native, Maricela brings over 31 years of experience to her role, including more than 21 years with a respected local underwriter. Throughout her career, she has gained expertise across multiple departments in several esteemed title companies, developing a strong foundation in customer service, document management, and client relations.
Known for her people-first approach, Maricela thrives on building lasting relationships with clients and colleagues alike. She takes pride in delivering exceptional service and approaches every task with enthusiasm, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Her collaborative nature and ability to connect with others have been key to her professional success and have allowed her to mentor and support colleagues throughout her career.
At Proper Title, Maricela contributes to the company’s reputation as a leader in the industry, helping maintain its recognition as one of the Chicago Tribune’s Top Workplaces. She is passionate about supporting her clients, enhancing team success, and upholding a strong, supportive workplace culture. Outside of work, Maricela values her Chicago roots and takes pride in giving back to her community while continuing to grow and evolve in her field.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Maricela
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the incredible colleagues and mentors who have shaped my growth, along with my genuine passion for helping others and building lasting relationships. I bring enthusiasm, dedication, and a commitment to excellence into everything I do.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career and life advice I received was to always be myself and to never be afraid of CHANGE.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to develop thick skin, know your value, and stay passionate about the work you do.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges is going out there and speaking of how I can make a difference from the last experience or interaction with a customer from their last experience which might not have been too great or positive. There are many competitors out there.
The opportunities I have is that now I have the ability to be our Attorney Agents/Lenders and Brokers go to person. I am the Sales Representative and can make some decisions within the departments. My last place of employment was as a Customer Service Representative.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I have many values both in life and work. In both my personal and work life 3 of my most important values are to 1. Treat others how you would like to be treated. 2. Be mindful of people's time and 3. Be Honest.
Her Content Hub
Articles by Maricela
An inspiring personal journey of professional growth and transformation from behind-the-scenes support to Account Executive at Proper Title, highlighting the power of determination, mentorship, and kindness in achieving career success.
Love Your Passion
From Behind the Scenes to Account Executive: My Journey of Growth and Gratitude at Proper Title
In all my years working at various title companies, I never imagined I would be where I am today—both in mindset and in title. I never thought I had what it took to work in Sales or to represent a well-respected company. For years, I worked behind the scenes, ensuring that everything got done, no matter the cost. I embraced the motto, “Knowledge is power,” and I still live by it today.
Early in my career, I was known for being helpful, proactive, and willing to learn. When no one offered guidance, I took the initiative to ask questions, learn the process, and figure out how to get the job done. That curiosity and willingness to learn gave me a sense of purpose and built the foundation for my growth. Over time, I realized I wanted more. I wanted a role where my contributions mattered and where I could grow.
That opportunity came with Proper Title, where I now proudly serve as an Account Executive. I’ve learned so much from everyone here, and I am especially grateful to Kim O’Donnell, Executive Vice President of Business Development, and Michele Clement, Director of Title Services. Their mentorship and guidance have given me the courage and knowledge to step into my confidence, conquer the fear of rejection, and keep moving forward—even when someone isn’t interested.
One year has flown by, and I am busier than ever—making calls, following up with current and new clients, and meeting incredible people. My journey has taught me to know my worth and never sell myself short, because not everyone will value it. I also learned the power of kindness: the attorneys, agents, brokers, and lenders I helped early on have now become some of my best clients.
To the Proper Title family: thank you for welcoming me and allowing me to grow in the best company to work for. My goal for 2026 is to continue building on this momentum, to be even better than last year, and to keep serving my clients with excellence, knowledge, and heart.
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