There are advantages and disadvantages to working for a broker, or being independent. Working for a brokerage, essentially makes you an employee. If you have been attracted to the profession because it gives you ultimate freedom, then perhaps this would not be ideal arrangement. However, working for an agency provides some enticing benefits and camaraderie.
If you work as an employee of a real estate brokerage, you are still responsible for your business. So when looking to fill an empty position with a new candidate, brokers look for a motivation, self-discipline & determination.
Present yourself as being focused
Real estate agencies are busy workplaces. Brokers manage organization, efficiency, and value. Demonstrate that you will fit right in. How? Emphasize your efficient time management skills, your sharp focus, and personal initiative. Describe situations where you have been an expert task juggler, skilled with constant motion, and eager to manage more prospects and tasks.
Clearly Communicate
Brokers desire staff who have excellent communication skills; those that can quickly explain the differences an intricacies of properties; while being able to tactfully and skillfully negotiate between all the parties involved in a transaction. Communication skills also extend to marketing. In short, an agent candidate needs to prove that they are not only able to sell real estate – but are also skilled at selling themselves and the brokerage/brand.
Four Major Ways to Positively Sell Yourself
Here are major ways to sell yourself – when you are interviewing at a brokerage:
A. Positiveness
Present yourself as having a positive attitude; focusing on performance capability and goals. Steer clear of complaining about former bosses or other previous working situations. If necessarily, tell them how you made the most of your time there. If you have to address something negative, it is best to keep it short & sweet. A good rule of thumb is that “less is more” when the unpleasant topics surface; avoid elaborating on undesirable details. Spin matters as positively as you can. If you quit your job, rephrase it as “looking for a better opportunity” or “I feel I need more of a challenge.” If you were fired, best to simply state “it wasn’t the right fit” and move to change the topic.
B. Be Specific
It is not enough to say that you are the best candidate. You have to prove it by stressing your skills and experience. When launching into generalized talking points, like “I work well with others” or “I take initiative,” be prepared to elaborate on your claims with concrete examples. Tell stories, prepare anecdotes, anything to bolster your assertions and stand out from other candidates.
C. Show Them You’re the Solution
Any company looking to hire new employees is hoping that they can find individuals able to provide a solution to a new or longstanding issue. When it comes to real estate, most brokerages and offices want agents who can contribute to lead generation and making sales. Prepare yourself by becoming familiar with the market in your area, taking special note of any areas that are underserved or not being exploited effectively. Arm yourself with details and strategies to present a compelling pitch as to why you should be their top choice!
Come up with a few standard replies or statements that quickly and succinctly summarize your skills, experience and ambition. Try to prepare a catchy soundbite or memorable phrase using industry terms and action words. Begin by listing some of your greatest accomplishments in either the workplace or while in school, and find a way to show how these successes make you stand apart. Once you have a set “story” about yourself, you can easily answer pointed questions and elaborate on the content of your resume.
D. Keep an Eye on Body Language
Nonverbal language can communicate a lot about your frame of mind and confidence level, so pay attention to how you present yourself. Make sure your posture is on point, sit up straight and don’t fidget. It’s also important to maintain eye contact while answering questions, and your handshake should be firm, but not overly aggressive.
Your “Curb Appeal”
Curb appeal is common in real estate descriptor. Your listings show present its freshest face in order to charm potential buyers. “Curb appeal” also applies to you. Presenting a clean, professional, and likable character helps you connect with clients, create a rapport with colleagues, and referral sources.
Above all else, always do your best to try to remain calm, cool, and collected. Highlight your personality by being authentic/genuine and enthusiastic.
Research the brokerage. Remember you are interviewing them too. Stay focused on the task at hand throughout the entire interview. Brokers are looking for someone who is the right fit: along with experience, skills, temperament and an eager willingness to work.
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