How often do you find a recruiter with the actual hands-on experience in the industry they are recruiting for? Though it is not mandatory to have the first-hand experience in their chosen field, I have found that coming from real estate has given me an in-depth, hands-on understanding of the industry. Along with invaluable contacts that many other recruiters aren’t able to achieve.

Being a residential agent enables you to meet with many different people in all walks of life, dealing with a variety of issues, and finding outcomes for everybody’s situations. It has taught me that not only do you need to listen to what is being said but also what is being omitted, as you are dealing with their most precious and valuable asset- their home. As we know, your home is your castle. This is very much like how an employee can make or break an organisation. Not all people are cut out for the real estate industry, the hours are long, the rewards can be few and far between during poor economic times, and you need to be thick-skinned. I have been fortunate to learn directly what type of skill sets are transferable and which ones are not and this experience has become invaluable when clients ask me why my candidates are the best.

An agent’s life is very busy, time demanding and client focused. Knowing your market, being flexible with your time to suit vendors and buyers can be difficult for some people to deal with. As a recruiter now for Commercial Real Estate I know about this first hand, and can relate not only to the candidates who cross my path but to my clients who know that I offer the attention to detail they require from any real estate agent. Furthermore, I understand and appreciate the time and dedication needed for the roles I recruit for.

Listening to the desires and needs of each individual and knowing the culture, drive and future goals of the individual client and candidate enables me to find the right fit for both parties. A lot of people are unaware that not only do skills required need to be covered, the culture of each Agency is also crucial. I am known to take the time to meet with my clients, look at their culture, training and social aspects and of course future plans for the business.

Without question, Residential is different to Commercial, yet the type of person required to work in the sector is not. Knowing the skill necessary for a Sales Agent, Property Managers, Reception, and Administration along with Personal Assistants for Salespeople, enables me to recognise these traits. Offering my clients and candidates not only the best possible result but results from someone with first-hand experience.

I am thankful for the experience I gained working in the real estate sector. It has given me the understanding of what each role entails, and what a candidate is required to demonstrate prior to being introduced to my valued clients. Without my own direct exposure to the industry, I would be left with accepting advice from fellow recruiters and clients, and would never have a full understanding of what makes the perfect candidate for the real estate industry.

Lisa Thomas works with the elite in the real estate industry, confidentially helping them move from their current role to a more rewarding one. If you are interested in partnering with Lisa for your next career move; feel free to phone her for a CONFIDENTIAL chat on 0424 189 135.