Blog

Managing the Next Generation: What CRE Leaders Need to Know About Millennial & Gen Z Employees

Over the past several years, it’s become increasingly obvious that commercial real estate is changing.

And this isn’t just because of market shifts, technology advancements, or new industry trends. The workforce itself is evolving. Younger professionals are entering the CRE space. So, it stands to reason that, if you want to attract and retain top talent, you need to understand what drives the next generation.

Millennials and Gen Z employees aren’t just younger versions of previous generations. They have different priorities, expectations, and approaches to work. And if you don’t adapt, you’ll struggle to keep them engaged.

So, what should CRE leaders know about managing this new wave of professionals?

They Want More Than Just a Paycheck

Yes, compensation matters. No one is turning down a solid salary. But for Millennials and Gen Z, job satisfaction isn’t just about money. They’re looking for purpose, growth, and alignment with their personal values. They want to find fulfillment in their work.

CRE employers should understand that it’s their job to connect the work of Millennial and Gen Z employees to the bigger picture. How does their role impact clients, communities, or the future of CRE? Spell it out.

Offer professional development opportunities, too. When this new generation receives the training, mentorship, and clear career pathways they need to stay engaged, it will motivate and excite them to advance.

Work-Life Balance Isn’t a Perk – It’s Expected

For previous generations, long hours were a badge of honor. In CRE, where hustle culture runs deep, younger employees aren’t necessarily rejecting hard work, but they’re looking to achieve a healthy work-life balance. They value their time and expect flexibility where possible.

How do you help them with this balance?

  • Offer hybrid work options if feasible. Remote work isn’t always possible in CRE, but even small flexibilities (like occasional work-from-home days) go a long way.
  • Focus on output, not just hours. Are they meeting goals and driving results? If so, micromanaging their time won’t help.
  • Encourage breaks and unplugging. If you send emails at 10pm, they’ll feel pressure to respond – even if you say they don’t have to.

They Value Feedback (But Not Just Once a Year)

The annual performance review is outdated. Younger professionals grew up in a world of instant feedback (likes, shares, comments) and they expect more frequent and effective communication in the workplace. They want to know where they stand and how they can improve, so don’t make them wait 12 months to find out.

Instead, provide regular, real-time feedback. This might mean a quick “Hey, great job on that client call” or “Here’s a way to improve next time.” You could even schedule informal check-ins periodically. A short monthly or biweekly chat helps keep them on track and engaged.

And always be specific. General praise (“Good job!”) is nice, but targeted feedback (“Your market analysis was sharp, and the client really appreciated your insights”) is so much better.

Culture and Inclusivity Matter

One thing that might sound counter-intuitive in our increasingly detached world is younger employees actually care about company culture quite a lot. According to research, Millennial and Gen Z employees want a workplace that feels welcoming, inclusive, and aligned with their values. A rigid, old-school, “just do your job” environment? That’s not going to cut it.

It’s important for CRE management to foster a collaborative, inclusive environment to encourage diverse perspectives and ensure everyone has a voice. And don’t keep company challenges and changes a mystery – be transparent. This only generates more trust and buy-in.

Ultimately, Gen Z and Millennials want a sense of belonging. So, go beyond happy hour to find meaningful ways to build authentic connection among CRE employees. Instead of forced teambuilding exercises, opt for mentorship programs or small group discussions that help build true relationships.

Technology Isn’t Optional

Millennials and Gen Z grew up with technology. They expect efficiency, automation, and modern tools in their work environment. If your systems are outdated or your processes are bogged down with unnecessary manual work, they’ll notice – and they’ll get frustrated fast. Fortunately, the CRE industry is shaped by cutting-edge technology – all you have to do is leverage it!

Here’s how:

  • Invest in quality tools. Whether it’s CRM software, property management tools, or AI-driven analytics, staying up to date is crucial.
  • Be open to new ideas. Younger employees often bring fresh perspectives on how to streamline operations. Listen to them.
  • Eliminate pointless bureaucracy. If a process is inefficient, fix it. Nothing drives younger workers crazy like outdated, slow-moving systems.

Leading the Next Generation in CRE

Managing Millennial and Gen Z employees isn’t about catering to their every preference. But it is about recognizing that the workplace is evolving. And as it does, managers and leaders in commercial real estate should adapt their leadership style to create an environment where this up-and-coming workforce can thrive.

When you understand these crucial personality traits and expectations of these new generations, you’re building a stronger, more future-proof business. You’re preparing for tomorrow’s successes.

And it’s not like the next generation is asking for the world. They just want meaningful work, clear communication, a healthy work-life balance, and the tools to succeed. Give them that, and you won’t just attract top talent – you’ll keep it.

Sources:

Managing the Next Generation: What CRE Leaders Need to Know About Millennial & Gen Z Employees Read More »

9 Best Ways to Answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” Interview Question

Whether you’re getting ready for your first job interview or your tenth, I guarantee you’ll want to prepare for one classic hiring talking point: the “Tell me about yourself” interview question. Luckily, this is a soft-pitch question because you’re the expert on your life and professional experience! However, it’s always a good idea to think ahead about answers to common interview questions so you can stand out from other job applicants. I’ll explain why hiring managers ask this question in interviews and how you can respond with confidence and clarity to ultimately set yourself up for interview success.

Why Do Interviewers Always Ask, “Tell Me About Yourself”?

“Tell me about yourself” is one of the most common job interview questions—especially if you’re meeting a hiring manager for the first time. But interviewers aren’t just listening to your personal stories because they want to know where you’re from, what your hobbies are, or what your personality test results say. What they really want to know is how you present yourself under pressure, if you’ll mesh with the company culture, and of course a bit about your professional background and why you’re interested in the opportunity. Your answer to this question is a chance to pitch yourself and show that you’re a confident and capable professional. Remember, you never get a second chance at making a first impression. So learning how to answer “Tell me about yourself” in an interview is your opportunity to shine.

Continue Reading: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/career-advice/tell-me-about-yourself

9 Best Ways to Answer the “Tell Me About Yourself” Interview Question Read More »

12 Employee Engagement Ectivities to Motivate Your Workforce 

Every organization needs employee engagement activities to have a truly engaged workforce that consistently goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional results. But ask a company at random what they’re doing to keep engagement high, and you’re likely to hear about only a few, scattershot efforts, if any. Unfortunately, many organizations have yet to realize that only paying lip service to the importance of employee engagement often yields worse results than ignoring it entirely.

If you want your company to stand apart from the pack of unengaged workplaces, you’ve come to the right place. These 12 activities run the gamut from consistent practices that elevate the employee experience to more structured occasions that break up the tedium of the work week. And the best part — these activities are within reach for just about every organization, no matter its size or industry.

1. Recognize and reward employees for big wins and small moments

Taking advantage of every opportunity to recognize a fellow team member is an ongoing activity that can act as the most impactful driver of employee engagement at your organization. The goal is to build a culture of appreciation where every effort, no matter how small, is acknowledged. Frequent, sincere expressions of gratitude, whether a brief thank you, a handwritten note, or personalized gift, create a positive atmosphere where employees feel valued and motivated to excel.

Recognition and rewards are most meaningful when they’re tailored to the individual — but it can be hard to find the perfect gift, or the right words, even for team members you know well. An employee recognition platform solves this conundrum through a points-based rewards system, along with letting every employee show appreciation with only the click of a button and a few keystrokes. Look for software that includes fun social recognition features and is backed by a marketplace that lets team members choose virtually anything they can think of with the points they receive.

An employee recognition solution lets your team members practice recognition openly and transparently, so others can join in with their own messages of well-deserved thanks. This collective celebration reinforces the idea that every team member’s contributions are vital to the organization’s success, promoting a sense of belonging and boosting engagement.

Continue Reading: https://www.achievers.com/blog/employee-engagement-activities/?pf_recommendation=relatedcontent&pf_rec_id=6776d4b45692ececc8dd9753&pf_rec_click_id=651efc6b15a4be967d0dc8bf&pf_promoter=concierge

12 Employee Engagement Ectivities to Motivate Your Workforce  Read More »

Commercial real estate under the Trump Administration: Key potential areas of impact

The commercial real estate industry stands at a pivotal moment as it anticipates potential shifts in federal policy. With the Trump administration preparing to take over, industry stakeholders are analyzing how various policy changes could reshape property markets across the United States.

7 potential areas of impact for commercial real estate

From financing and development to property operations, the implications could be far-reaching. This analysis examines the key areas that could significantly impact commercial real estate markets, offering insights into both opportunities and challenges that may emerge.

1. Regulatory environment and development

A significant focus will likely be placed on streamlining regulatory processes affecting commercial real estate development. The administration’s approach to regulation could manifest through expedited permitting processes for construction projects, potentially reducing development timelines and costs. This could particularly benefit developers in markets where regulatory hurdles have historically constrained new supply.

Reduced environmental review requirements for commercial projects could accelerate project timelines but may create tension with ESG-focused investors and tenants. Additionally, the opening of federal lands for development could create new opportunities in markets adjacent to federal holdings.

2. Banking and finance landscape

The Trump administration’s approach to banking regulation could significantly impact CRE financing availability and terms. Potential pushback against Basel III Endgame implementation could affect bank capital requirements, potentially maintaining more flexible lending conditions for commercial real estate projects.

Changes to banking oversight might influence regional banks’ appetite for CRE lending, particularly important given these institutions’ traditional role in commercial real estate financing. Furthermore, modifications to Dodd-Frank regulations could affect CMBS markets and other structured finance vehicles crucial to CRE funding.

Continue Reading: https://www.bpm.com/insights/commercial-real-estate-trump-administration-policy-impact/

Commercial real estate under the Trump Administration: Key potential areas of impact Read More »

How to Nail Work Place Culture

Workplace technologies are developing at a staggering speed. With mixed reality, generative AI and other workplace technologies revolutionizing ways of working, it’s easy to get distracted and overlook your organization’s most important asset, its people.

What is technology without people? Beyond some expensive silicon and plastic, not much. When we take a step back and look at what’s really driving change, the answer soon becomes clear: It’s us. We live in a human-powered economy. That’s why an investment in people is an investment in business. And getting that investment right starts with workplace culture.

What is workplace culture?

It’s important to define what we mean when we talk about workplace culture. But it’s not easy to pin down. Is it a set of values? Behaviours? Attitudes? Or customs and traditions? It turns out it’s all these and more.

Harvard Business Review describes it as “an organization’s DNA. It is the shared values, goals, attitudes, and practices that characterize a workplace. It is reflected in how people behave, interact with each other, make decisions, and do their work. It impacts everything — including your happiness and career.”

Perhaps the simplest explanation comes from celebrated US management guru Marvin Bower, who describes it as “the way we do things around here”.

However we define it, workplace culture can be tricky to measure. It’s how it feels to be at work rather than a set of written rules. Every organization has its personality and atmosphere – and that’s not something easy to engineer, especially among dispersed hybrid teams.

Peter Drucker, the renowned management consultant and writer, said: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” And in the wake of huge upheavals in the way we work, organizations are waking up to the fact that you can have the greatest strategy, cutting-edge technology and the best people in the world, but it doesn’t matter if your culture isn’t right.

Culture is the very air you breathe. If it’s toxic, your organization dies.

Continue Reading: https://forwork.meta.com/blog/workplace-culture/

How to Nail Work Place Culture Read More »

Work on Your Mindset-Not Your Weaknesses

When I first got into coaching, a lot of companies asked my firm if we could change people and work on their weaknesses to improve their work quality and experience.

So we jumped aboard with this thinking and started examining people’s shortcomings and struggles. We held the mirror up to our clients and told them they had to change, and if they didn’t, they wouldn’t move forward in their careers.

For the most part, this didn’t really work. People don’t want to work on weaknesses because those are the parts they already don’t like about themselves. It makes them lose confidence, become paralyzed, give up and go back to unproductive behavior. Don’t get me wrong-some of the mitigation worked in powerful ways. And yet there was something extremely important missing: the understanding that as humans we are all inherently flawed and that that’s OK.

The essence of our journey is not about correcting all of our flaws but about constantly evolving so we continually turn into a better version of ourselves. With this crucial insight, we have shifted our coaching methods to focus less on shortcomings and more on the most important keystone to evolving: getting in the right mindset.

Read More: https://www.kfadvance.com/articles/work-on-your-mindset-not-your-weaknesses

Work on Your Mindset-Not Your Weaknesses Read More »

14 Second Interview Questions and Answers (Plus Tips on How to Prepare!)

Nice work: After submitting a polished resume and cover letter, you aced those common interview questions during your first-round interview. Now you’re invited back for a second interview—and you’re that much closer to getting that job offer.

How you do in the second interview is critical; it’s often what the hiring manager bases their final decision on. So if there was ever a time to shine, it’s now.

No worries if this is the first time you’re facing this process—it is all good. “A second interview is always a good thing,” says Muse career coach Eloïse Eonnet. “Companies would not waste their time meeting with you if they did not see potential in your candidacy.”

Wondering how to make a great impression? In this article, we’ll help you prepare your answers for key second interview questions you’ll likely be asked.

The more interviews you land, the more options you havecheck open jobs on The Muse to find your next opportunity

Continue Reading: https://www.themuse.com/advice/second-interview-questions-answers-examples

14 Second Interview Questions and Answers (Plus Tips on How to Prepare!) Read More »

How to Write an Engaging Post in Your LinkedIn Feed

LinkedIn is more than just a professional networking platform; it’s a space where ideas and opportunities converge. Whether you’re a recruiter seeking excellent candidates, a talent development professional exploring a career move, or a talent leader looking to establish yourself as a thought leader, sharing your voice on LinkedIn can boost your visibility and set you apart.

Read on to learn how to write an engaging LinkedIn post that stands out in the feed and resonates with your audience.

Set yourself up for success

The most well-written LinkedIn post can fall flat if you haven’t put in the effort to build an engaged community and demonstrate your expertise. Take the time to set yourself up for success so your posts will be well received in the LinkedIn community.

Complete your profile

LinkedIn members who post twice per week see up to five times more profile views. Complete your profile to demonstrate your credibility and help your profile viewers learn more about you.

Recommended LinkedIn profile sections include:

Continue Reading: https://www.linkedin.com/business/talent/blog/talent-acquisition/how-to-write-engaging-post-in-linkedin-feed

How to Write an Engaging Post in Your LinkedIn Feed Read More »

Mindset at Work: Thriving in a Dynamic and Ever-Changing Environment!

In this article, I’ll discuss a topic close to my heart and, I believe, crucial for success in today’s fast-paced professional landscape: the mindset at work. We’ve all heard the buzz about having a growth mindset, but what exactly does that mean? Join me on this exploration of how mindset is everything in thriving within a dynamic and ever-changing work environment.

The concept of a growth mindset has become a buzzword, and rightly so. But what does it truly mean? It’s more than just a positive affirmation; it’s a fundamental shift in how we approach challenges, view failures, and embrace opportunities. Join me in unravelling the essence of a growth mindset and how, indeed, a mindset is everything in the pursuit of a fulfilling and successful career.

As we delve into the intricacies of mindset at work, we’ll explore inspiring quotes that encapsulate the wisdom of adopting a growth mindset. From there, we’ll transition into practical strategies, both in and outside the workplace, that can help nurture this invaluable trait. So, grab your metaphorical toolkit for personal and professional development as we embark on a journey to understand why mindset matters more than ever in today’s fast-paced professional realm.

Read More: https://medium.com/@timcastle_/mindset-at-work-thriving-in-a-dynamic-and-ever-changing-environment-79a8f440a740

Mindset at Work: Thriving in a Dynamic and Ever-Changing Environment! Read More »

5 Soft Skills That Set CRE Professionals Apart (and How to Develop Them)

Let’s face it: when people think about commercial real estate (CRE), they tend to focus on the hard skills – things like market analysis, financial modeling, etc. But the real game-changers are often the softer, less obvious skills that separate the good from the great.

And that’s what we’re going to reveal here and now: soft skills for CRE that set you apart. And we’re going to show you specifically how to grow in each of these five areas.

Because soft skills are the secret sauce for CRE professionals – it’s how they navigate this complex industry So, here the ones you should have in your toolkit as well as how to sharpen them.

1. Communication: Speaking the Language of Deals

CRE professionals study effective communication. You’re constantly explaining complex ideas to people who might not have your level of expertise. If you can’t break it down simply, then you’re going to lose them.

For example, let’s say you’re pitching an investment opportunity to a group of potential investors. Half of the room might be finance pros, but the other half could be entrepreneurs with minimal CRE knowledge. Your ability to tailor your message to both groups is what lands the deal.

So, how do you develop this ability?

  • Practice summarizing complex topics in a single sentence. Think of it as the headline of your story.
  • Take public speaking workshops, even if you think you’re decent already. Toastmasters is a great place to start.
  • Seek feedback from colleagues. Honest critiques help you grow.

2. Negotiation: The Art of Finding Win-Wins

In CRE, negotiation is everywhere—leases, sales, development contracts. It’s not about steamrolling the other side, but the best negotiators know how to balance assertiveness with collaboration. And this creates outcomes where everyone feels like they’ve won something.

Imagine you’re negotiating lease terms for a high-profile client. They want low rent; the landlord wants a longer-term commitment. Your ability to listen, identify common ground, and propose creative solutions (like a phased rent increase) makes all the difference.

You develop this soft skill by:

  • Studying classic negotiation strategies like BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement). Understanding fallback positions gives you leverage.
  • Role-playing scenarios with a colleague. Practicing tough conversations in a low-stakes environment builds confidence.
  • Focusing more on active listening. Most people aren’t great at it, so this alone sets you apart.

3. Emotional Intelligence: Understanding People Beyond Numbers

Commercial real estate isn’t just about properties; it’s about people. Clients, tenants, and stakeholders all bring emotions, motivations, and expectations to the table. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is your ability to read the room, build rapport, manage relationships, and navigate conflicts with grace.

If a client is upset about unexpected delays on a project, you don’t rush in to defend yourself or blame others. Instead, you acknowledge their frustration, explain the issue clearly, and offer solutions. That’s EQ in action.

Next steps:

  • Work on self-awareness. Keep a journal or reflect after stressful interactions: “What triggered my reaction?”
  • Pay attention to body language and tone. They often reveal more than words.
  • Practice empathy by asking open-ended questions: “How does this impact your goals?”

4. Adaptability: Navigating an Ever-Changing Market

CRE is nothing if not unpredictable. Markets shift, interest rates fluctuate, regulations change – and then there’s technology, which keeps reinventing how we do business. Adaptability isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must.

Take the recent surge in remote work. Office space demand plummeted, while industrial and mixed-use properties surged. The CRE pros who adapted and explored new strategies and asset classes were the ones who thrived.

How to hone this skill:

  • Stay curious. Subscribe to industry reports and attend webinars to stay ahead of trends.
  • Take on projects outside your comfort zone. Stretching yourself builds resilience.
  • Reframe setbacks as learning opportunities: “What did this teach me?”

5. Networking: Building Authentic Relationships

Sure, technical skills get your foot in the door. But it’s your network of relationships that opens the doors to the biggest opportunities. The key is to make it genuine. People can spot transactional networking from a mile away.

For example, instead of attending every happy hour just to collect business cards, focus on smaller, quality interactions. A 10-minute, meaningful conversation with someone in your niche beats a dozen surface-level chats every time.

How do you develop this?

  • Prioritize smaller, focused events over massive mixers. You’ll have better conversations.
  • Find more ways to optimize your LinkedIn. Use your profile to stay connected and share valuable insights, not just self-promotion.
  • Follow up! Send a quick, personalized note after meeting someone to keep in touch.

Soft Skills for CRE Are Your Competitive Edge

Soft skills might not be flashy, but they’re the backbone of a successful CRE career. The best part? They’re learnable. Start by picking one or two areas to focus on, and you’ll see the impact ripple through your deals, relationships, and reputation.

So, what’s your next move? A public speaking class? A deep dive into negotiation strategies? Whatever it is, remember: honing your soft skills isn’t just about career advancement. It’s about becoming the kind of professional people want to work with – and that’s priceless.

Sources:

5 Soft Skills That Set CRE Professionals Apart (and How to Develop Them) Read More »

Skip to content