A career in real estate can be deeply rewarding, not only financially but in the relationships the broker forms with colleagues and clients. Within the right agency, a broker can also enjoy lifelong professional growth.
For individuals pursuing a career path finding the right agency can be challenging. Sadly, within the industry, professionals do encounter the mindset that working in real estate is ‘a fall-back position’, ‘temporary role’, or easy way to make some fast money.
It is in an agency and among individuals who view real estate as a career that a new broker should look for when seeking a new position.
Dubai is a dynamic market which offers good career opportunities. However, for brokers entering the market from overseas amplifies the challenges of finding the right kind of agency.
What are the things a career-minded broker should look for in an agency before accepting a position?
Beyond the basics of verifying the legitimacy of a company’s registration and the details of a renumeration package, investigate the history and reputation of the agency. Find out how when the company was established and long have it has been providing real estate and property management related services.
Aim to discover the agency’s standing in the industry. Look at the relationships the agency has with industry and professional organisations and developers. Investigate if the work the agency does is valued and respected by clients and peers alike?
Details included in the job advertisement, along with where the position is advertised can be indicators of an agency being the type which supports developing a real estate career. Explore how frequently the agency recruits.
Unfortunately, bulk hiring and then seeing who ‘works out’ is an approach taken by some agencies. Therefore, as job applicants, brokers benefit from asking questions about the number of positions available. Reassure yourself that the recruitment process indicates the company is selective when hiring.
In an interview, show curiosity about the depth of experience on the floor. Ask how long people have been with the company. A good agency where a broker can establish a career will provide training and coaching for both experienced and new brokers. The right agency will describe a culture where their team of advisors share knowledge and nurture new members who join the team.
Before accepting an offer, dig deeper to confirm the workplace culture is one where career-minded people want to remain. Rather than viewing colleagues as competitors, a good agency is distinguished by being one where everyone is happy when new recruits flourish and grow.
In a culturally diverse, international city like Dubai, a good agency doesn’t have a monoculture. Just as the clients served come from a diverse range of nationalities, so should the brokers and support teams in the agency.
The right agency has a workplace culture which is supportive, open, flexible and fun. It provides administrative support so their brokers can be advisors who focus on sales and honing their skills as they build a rewarding long-term career in the real-estate industry.
