Agents from across the state gathered together for a day of professional development and personal motivation at REINSW’s fifth annual Women in Real Estate Conference.
From tips on becoming a media darling and embracing change, to harnessing the power of relationships and being a little daring when it comes to business, participants were treated to a fast-paced, informative day at The Ivy Ballroom in Sydney.
Speakers Catherine DeVrye, Susie Elelman, Kirsty Spraggon and Chris Keeble provided insightful presentations served with a side of wit and humour, while MC Margaret Lomas kept proceedings running smoothly before the day finished up with a fast-paced charity auction to raise money for the McGrath Foundation.
Former REINSW President Cristine Castle, who initiated the event five years ago, said she was pleased to see the conference go from strength to strength.
“I had this goal five years ago and now that’s been achieved,” she said.
“I am very proud of what WIRE has become. I am grateful to REINSW. They are committed to women in real estate in New South Wales. I had my goal, I had my desire, but REINSW worked with me to make it happen and it’s just proof of their commitment and they’ve taken members on that journey.
“Women leave the conference inspired, they get a chance to network, renew friendships and have a great time. I think the journey through the next five years will be even more exciting – that I am certain of.”
Women from across the state took time out from their usual business day to attend the event, among them was Julie Green, Principal of Julie Green Real Estate, who has travelled from Quirindi every year to attend the conference.
Mrs Green said she enjoyed attending the conference because it renewed her motivation and she always learnt something new.
“There is nowhere I can get this information in the country, so I am happy to travel for all the benefits that I get from this conference,” she said.
“I think we need to encourage more country agents to attend this fabulous day.”
Key messages for agents
- Good service is good business – be useful not subservient
- Change in inevitable, learning from it is optional
- Reinvention is vital in both your personal life and business
- Understand the importance of good relationships – people do business with people they like
- Take your relationships from superficial to ‘real’ and get a customer for life
- Get out of your comfort zone and don’t be afraid to push boundaries
- Understand your own personal brand first, and make your business brand an extension of that
- When you find the right staff, invest in them