Yesterday, Troy Palmquist published an outstanding article in Inman on questions new-to-real estate agents should be asking their brokers.
While these questions may be helpful to new agents, they’re even more helpful to hiring managers.
Why? Because this serves as an insightful guide on what you should be prepared to answer during the interview.
I’ve copied the questions below for your use and reference.
After reading the questions, take some time to formulate your answers.
Doing this will benefit you in several ways:
Prepared. Anticipating the questions and knowing the answers will make you appear more competent than your competitors.
Focused. No company is good at everything. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses allows you to steer conversations to topics where you have an advantage.
Confident. New agents respond to confident hiring managers. There is so much uncertainty at this stage of their career, they’re looking for leaders who are both knowledgeable and trustworthy.
The best new agents are the most savvy, and they’ll gravitate towards the leaders who they sense are most competent.
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35 Questions New Agents Should Be Asking
Technology and Tools
-Can you describe your technology stack, and how it helps agents manage transactions, leads, and marketing?
-What CRM system do you use, and how user-friendly is it for tracking leads and nurturing client relationships?
-Do you provide training on new tools and technologies? How often are these tools updated?
-How does your tech platform integrate with mobile devices for agents on the go?
Lead Generation and Marketing Support
-Do you provide exclusive leads, or do agents have to generate their own?
-What lead generation systems do you have in place? How are leads distributed among agents?
-What kind of marketing support is offered? Do you have in-house services like design, photography, video production, copywriting or graphic design?
-Do you help with digital marketing, such as, paid advertising on social media or search engines?
-How do you support agents in building their personal brand? What are the limits on personal branding, marketing, and PR?
Agent Performance and Attrition
-What is the average number of transactions per agent annually?
-What is your attrition rate, and why do agents typically leave the brokerage or team?
-How do you support new agents in ramping up quickly? Is there a mentorship program?
-Do you have specific programs to help agents avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Training and Professional Development
-What kind of ongoing training and professional development do you offer agents?
-How do you support agents who want to specialize in niche markets like luxury homes, commercial real estate, or new developments?
-What niches are not currently represented at your brokerage that you would like to connect with?
-Is there any formal coaching, accountability or performance tracking in place?
Compensation and Fees
-Can you explain the commission split and how it changes with performance?
-What are the monthly fees and transaction fees agents are responsible for? Are there any hidden costs or unexpected expenses?
-Are there any opportunities for agents to reduce fees or increase their earnings through hitting certain milestones?
Brokerage Culture and Environment
-How would you describe the culture of the brokerage or team? Is it more collaborative or competitive?
-How do you maintain a positive team environment, especially in times of market shifts or economic uncertainty?
-Are there regular team meetings, social events, or retreats that foster connection among agents?
-How does your brokerage support diversity and inclusion within the team?
