There’s never been a better time to start and grow your career in the real estate industry.
As the nation emerges from pandemic lockdown, employers across the sector are facing a critical skills shortage driven by closed borders and shifting labour demographics.
With employers desperate to fill vacancies, smart candidates can fast-track their careers with the pick of the property roles.
Opportunity Knocks on the Door
LinkedIn study Jobs on the Rise in 2021 points to growing job opportunities across Australia’s real estate sector, due to low interest rates and more Australians working remotely. While top growth locations are listed as Perth, Sydney and Melbourne, the report also notes strong regional growth as workers increasingly move out of the big cities and into the regions.
According to Justine Buhrmann, Director of Gough Recruitment Victoria, now is an amazing time to enter the industry and make your mark.
“There is unprecedented demand for staff at the moment, across the country, as the skills shortage kicks in. It’s so hard for employers to fill vacancies, which are being felt across the board,” Justine says.
“So, why not use the talent shortage to get ahead? At the moment, it’s possible to move up the industry in super-quick time. It’s all about getting a foot in the door, then harnessing the right attitude and hard work to grow your career.”
Enter the Industry in a Junior Role
If you’re looking for a way into the real estate and property sector, start with the right qualification. While the entry-level real estate qualification varies from state to state, most employers now require this for any starting role. Whether you are applying for a position in sales, property management or reception, Justine recommends getting your state-based certificate of registration to kick things off.
“Most employers look for this initial qualification as a sign of commitment to the employer and industry, even in an office-based role,” she says.
“Reception can be a great place to start, giving you exposure to both sales and property management. Then you can get a feel for which specialty you prefer or move to a more senior admin role. Otherwise, you can enter a junior sales or property role directly – as leasing consultant or assistant property manager or sales assistant as a way to become a full sales consultant.”
Grow your Career in Real Estate
As Justine explains, your attitude and approach to work will definitely help grow your career faster. She advises candidates to:
- Take on any work you are offered. “This could be anything from typing up a lease to calling a client about a sale. It’s a great way to expand your knowledge.”
- Learn on the job. “Start with your initial qualification, then advance your skills as you go. Dealing with practicalities day-to-day is the best way to learn.”
- Know the right professionals. “Identify the most successful sales consultant or property manager in your office and build a relationship with them. Get to know why they are so effective.”
- Hone your people skills. “Real estate deals in bricks and mortar, but people form its heart. Selling property and moving home can be stressful and emotionally charged. Work on the way you communicate and resolve problems.”
- Be the one that others rely on. “At the end of the day, it comes down to basics. Be the one with the can-do attitude, who takes on tasks over and above the job description. Make yourself indispensable!”
Sometimes the growth pathway will not look straightforward or too easy, but with the right attitude, resilience and determination there is nothing you cannot do! If you want to get more information about the real estate industry or job seeking in general, make sure you join our community on LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram! And if you are ready to take that step and grow your career in real estate, do reach out and browse our current openings.