The Little Careers Book

࢚࢚ Miscommunication is the cause of many problems, especially in the property industry, so you need to be someone who is direct, clear, candid in communication. ࢚࢚ Success or failure hinges on effective decision-making, and there are lots of decisions to be made – all the time – so you need to be an analytical, observant, and considered person. ࢚࢚ There can be big egos in the property industry, and so a measure of humility and discretion goes a very long way. ࢚࢚ If you are a pleasant and generally positive person with an enthusiastic ‘can do’ attitude, you will do well. ࢚࢚ Given that the Property market is so market-sensitive, you have to be a strong and resilient person to handle the pressure. ࢚࢚ Are you a natural, personable networker? If you are good at meeting and befriending people and building contacts, you will have a great advantage. ࢚࢚ Your personal integrity will be the key to success, because your reputation – good or bad – will usually precede you. The property grape vine is tight. TRUTHS XX Being a land agent is all about hunting, fishing and walking your black labrador through the countryside. MYTHS ࢚࢚ You can earn a decent living in property, but don’t enter it because you think it’s an automatic money-maker, because it definitely is not. ࢚࢚ Target-based bonuses are common and can provide an income supplement. ࢚࢚ There is no substitute for hard work in the property industry. If you like hard work, and put in the hours, you will be rewarded. ࢚࢚ Principal partners in private practice can earn substantially more than others. ࢚࢚ Every day can be different, and property careers are not very office- based, so they suit those who like a mix of travel and office work. ࢚࢚ It can be very rewarding when a deal comes off, no matter how large or small. ࢚࢚ You meet a lot of people from all walks of life, and that makes the job interesting. ࢚࢚ There is a generally good work-life balance. Sure, you may work the occasional evening or weekend, or be on-site after normal work hours, but this is compensated for by flexibility in work hours and permission to work from home. ࢚࢚ Much depends upon the strength of markets (housing or retail) at any particular time, and as such, a career in property can be volatile, with highs and lows. TRUTHS XX Property is a very secure career. XX Estate agents will be made obsolete by the internet. MYTHS REWARDS AND SACRIFICES PERSONALITY TRAITS