Job Searching

[Felicia Gordon]

I have been applying to real estate industry questions for the past 2 years. I've made it to some interviews where I thought the interview went great and they would hire me but they eventually did now. I was wondering what other experience did I need? I have been applying to property management and leasing positions and I have taken a real estate course as well as the state test. I also had an internship with a real estate company. Is an extra degree helpful or a certificate program. I hope anyone can help.

[Jen Kurtz]

@Felicia Gordon 

In my opinion, degrees are most useful for super technical things and knowledge that you absolutely must have on a job- like being a CPA or engineer, or any health field. For any business related occupation, a degree can usually get someone an interview faster than someone who does not have one. I have a BA in economics, and I know it has opened some doors initially for me, many times. However, I also believe that business can be self-taught and if you know what youre talking about and can demonstrate in experience, that will suffice. Especially, if you want to work for yourself. I am happy to have my degree, but I look at the piece of paper as it is something that shows someone else you know something. If you want to work for yourself (like I discovered after college that I do), my experience and reputation will prove what I can do for people.

Depending on your goals, I would recommend getting a real estate education (in the form of licensing classes) if you want a license. If you want to continue working for someone else- like a developer, management company, etc.- then you may want to pursue a degree in business, real estate, finance, or even construction. If you want to work for yourself as an investor- learn everything you can for free by reading books, participating in online forums (like this website), watch youtube, anything- the options are endless.

If you plan to be an employee til retirement, then you will need to find out what you are lacking. It is either education, experience, or your interview skills and resume/cover letter writing needs some improvement. If you are applying and not hearing anything, I'd look at what you are sending to them and find ways to improve it to catch hiring managers' attention. If you are going to interviews but not getting the job, then find ways to improve your interviewing skills- in that case, you are not making a memorable impression compared to your compeition. Perhaps, even call interviewers you sat with and ask if they could tell you what they believe your strengths and weaknesses are, and if they have any suggestions they could give you to break into that particular industry.

Network, volunteer in real estate and community groups (like habitat for humanity or neighborhood redevelopment groups), always keep an eye out for opportunities. Keep learning, keep improving. Good luck!! :)