Manager, Marketing U.S. Office Division,
Brookfield Properties
New York, New York
My Perspective
What advice would you give to someone starting out in CRE?
I would advise someone starting out in CRE to build relationships by networking. A big part of this industry is about making connections with people you meet throughout your career. Don’t be intimidated because you don’t have the experience and don’t be afraid to ask for advice. I’ve learned that seasoned CRE professionals enjoy sharing their career path and giving advice.
How has NAIOP advanced your career in CRE?
NAIOP has helped me advance my career by allowing me the meet with CRE professional at all levels.
Vice President, Development Planning,
Hudson Pacific Properties, Inc.
Los Angeles, California
My Perspective
What advice would you give to someone starting out in CRE?
Most people decide to go into commercial real estate because they are familiar with one side of the business, I think exposing yourself to all sides of the business from leasing and acquisitions to development and management will give people a larger understanding of how they fit in the bigger picture and provide an opportunity for future avenues within the industry. Knowing too much is never the problem when it comes to real estate
How has NAIOP advanced your career in CRE?
NAIOP is an important conduit for me to unique networking opportunities, meeting people throughout the industry and in the market has been extremely helpful in fostering business development opportunities and expanding my knowledge base. I’ve also been able to take advantage the Young Professional’s Group which has provided me a deeper insight into myself both personally and professionally.
Who or what has influenced you most in your professional life?
The primary influencer has been the actual work, seeing the end result of a new development and knowing it will live for years to come is incredible satisfying. The other big influencers are past and present colleagues who have trusted my skill set enough to give me the confidence to keep pushing to achieve.
Senior Vice President | Commercial Real Estate Finance,
Bell Bank
Minneapolis, Minnesota
My Perspective
What advice would you give to someone starting out in CRE?
- Ask lots of questions. Your employer won't expect you to know it all day one but they will expect you to continue to want to learn your trade.
- Find a mentor outside of your firm. The more you can learn about the industry, the more value you can provide your clients (and your firm).
- Give back. Even as ‘rookie’ in the CRE industry, your contributions can be invaluable.
How has NAIOP advanced your career in CRE?
NAIOP has provided me the ability to build life long relationships with quality individuals within the industry, which I may not have made if I wasn't a part of NAIOP. Then as a result, I have then been fortunate enough to have those relationships play a part in advancing my career.
Principal,
WFT Engineering
Rockville, Maryland
My Perspective
What advice would you give to someone starting out in CRE?
Learn the basics of the business from financing to construction, engineering design… become a sponge and soak up as much as you can as fast as you can to water your tree of knowledge … Don’t be afraid to ask questions!!
How has NAIOP advanced your career in CRE?
The ability to meet, network and learn from a wide range of professionals.
Vice President of Data Operations, Data Solutions,
Altus Group
Toronto, Ontario
My Perspective
What advice would you give to someone starting out in CRE?
- Learn as much as the industry as possible (Read, speaking with leaders, seminars)
- Listen
- Get a Mentor/Coach in the industry
- Work hard, don’t be afraid to stretch
- Listen
How has NAIOP advanced your career in CRE?
- Wide Network of People/Professionals
- Education, attending NAIOP functions and seminars, learn from the experts
- Mentoring Program
- Special Education Courses Offered