7 Tips To Prepare You for your Next Real Estate Interview
Feeling scared and anxious when approaching the job search process is normal. When it comes to preparing for a real estate interview, our team recommends a few tips that have proven to be helpful. Read below to find out.
Social Media
During the interview process, some companies may look at your social media (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Twitter) to see who you are in an unprofessional setting. Remove questionable pictures, videos, or content.
If you know who you are interviewing, research the company’s social media and see what is important to them. This will help you create conversation in the real estate interview and help you realize you are talking to a person, too, which sometimes eases anxiety for interviewees.
Arrive Early to your Real Estate Interview and Be Prepared
Arrive 10 minutes early for the real estate interview.
Bring at least two printed-out copies of your resume.
Drive to the office where you will be interviewed the day before. The interviewing process can sometimes produce unnecessary stress, and not knowing where you are going can add to it!
Research the Company before your Real Estate Interview
This will help you cater your responses to fit the needs of the company you are interviewing with. A few good things to know are:
- What is the company’s mission statement? How do you resonate with it?
- Who are the clients of the firm you are interviewing with?
- What projects are they currently on? A great way to answer this is by reaching out to company employees and asking to schedule networking calls with them.
- Have they been featured in any news outlets recently?
Overdress
Always wear a suit and tie, or a blouse and skirt. A blue blazer with nice pants fits too.
For men, your belt and shoes should match.
It’s best if your outfit is neutral colors, such as black, grey, and white.
Introduce yourself to all company staff you come in contact with
These are your potential team members, so make a great first impression by introducing yourself to all you come into contact with. (This includes the receptionist!)
Stand up, look the other person in the eyes, and shake their hands.
Write a thank you note and email as soon as possible.
Grab a Business Card
If you are interviewing in person, ask for a business card before walking out the door.
Compile a list of business cards and keep them properly stored. You never know when you’ll need to call on someone.
Prepare 2 questions to ask during your Real Estate Interview
The interview should be more of a conversation than anything.
Remember that you, too, are interviewing this company just as much as they are interviewing you.
Some great questions to ask are:
- What goals would you like to accomplish at (insert company) in the next 3-5 years?
- Can you tell me about yourself and how you got the role with (insert company)?
- What resources do you recommend I do better to prepare myself for a career in Commercial Real Estate?
- When do you plan on making this hire? I’ve enjoyed this time here and am very interested in this role at (insert company).
On the other hand, here are some real estate interview questions for you to start preparing:
- Tell me about yourself.
- What attracted you to this company?
- Why Real Estate?
- What would your boss say about you (@ point to the last company worked with)?
- What do you have to say about your former boss?
- Why do you want this job?
- What is your level of Excel proficiency?
- What is your level of Argus proficiency?
- What is your ideal company?
Best of luck in your next real estate interview. You got this!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Preparing for a Real Estate Interview
Why should I clean up my social media before a real estate interview?
Companies may check your social media profiles to learn more about your character. Removing questionable content helps present you in a professional light and avoid any negative impressions.
How early should I arrive for my real estate interview?
Arrive 10 minutes early to your interview. Driving to the location the day before can help reduce stress and ensure you’re on time.
Why is researching the company important?
Researching the company allows you to tailor your responses to align with their mission, projects, and values. It also shows initiative and genuine interest in the role.
What should I wear to a real estate interview?
Always overdress. A suit and tie, or a professional blouse and skirt, are appropriate. Stick to neutral colors like black, grey, or white, and ensure your belt and shoes match.
Should I interact with staff members during the interview process?
Yes. Greet all company staff, including the receptionist. These people could be your future colleagues, so making a good first impression is key.
Is it necessary to follow up after an interview?
Yes. Send a thank-you note and email as soon as possible to express appreciation and reaffirm your interest in the role.
What kind of questions should I ask during the interview?
Prepare at least two thoughtful questions. Examples include:
“What goals would you like to accomplish at the company in the next 3–5 years?”
“What resources do you recommend I explore to better prepare for a CRE career?”
“When do you plan on making this hire?”
What are common questions asked in real estate interviews?
Some common questions include:
Tell me about yourself.
Why real estate?
What attracted you to this company?
What is your level of Excel/Argus proficiency?
What would your former boss say about you?
