"Day in the Life” is a one-on-one discussion with new REALTORS® to get straight talk on what it’s like to enter the business – the good and the challenging. Our goal with this series is twofold – create an opportunity for new members to learn from one another, and to offer managing brokers insight into how new members are adjusting in their new careers. Individual names are anonymous to allow members to speak openly.
About “George”
George is a long-time professional in education and education sales and continues to work in that field while pursuing his life-long passion of real estate. George earned his real estate license in early 2018.
Tell us about your first few months as a REALTOR®?
My first few months as a REALTOR® have been full of learnings – expected and unexpected. With my background in sales, I started out using the strategies and tactics homed in previous work. I was seeing some success, but after attending the orientation training at Mainstreet, I quickly learned that there is a lot of specialized and highly valuable information available. Since attending that training, my daily routine is different; I learned how to structure a more productive day and institute some tried and true practices. While, I’ve implemented a lot of what I’ve learned, I still have a lot of resources to mine.
What has worked for you in getting yourself established?
You have to get out from behind your desk and meet people. You can’t sustain a successful career by simply tapping your friends and family – although they help.
What is currently working for me is being legitimately interested in the business and the community. When I have a conversation with anyone, I’m not thinking about how I sell this person or get them into my sphere. Natural conversations, sharing real interests can sometimes go further then constantly trying to sell.
The other thing that’s helping me is the support of a great company and managing broker. I searched for a good fit and think that time spent was worthwhile. I also have family in the industry so I’m benefitting from a great support system and people to bounce ideas off of, which is very important. Especially when it comes to marketing my business, trial and error, and sound feedback helps.
What has surprised you about the business, industry?
I don’t know if I’m surprised per se, but the people I’ve met in the industry have been wonderful. When I step back and think about the work REALTORS® do – helping people find and purchase their family home – it’s pretty amazing and I’ve been fortunate to work with clients that really appreciate the work being put in.
Best advice for others just getting started?
I would tell people new to the industry to build a support system and mine the resources your company or MORe has to offer. There’s a lot out there, and you need to get out into the field to work, but commit some time to continuing to learn. New ideas, fresh thinking help. Oh, and know your contracts!
Summary
Advice for Getting Established in Real Estate
Get out and meet people and take the sales hat off; people work with people they like and trust.