Industry Insights

Some people are natural-born leaders; others work hard to perfect and optimize their leadership skills so they can help their team succeed.

Whether you’re up for a managerial job, you want to impress your boss with your leadership skills or you’re hoping to become a better leader in your current role, there are numerous professional skills and natural qualities you need to possess.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 20 essential leadership skills you need—and how to develop them.

What makes an effective leader?

Strong leadership goes beyond being a good manager. It’s about setting clear and achievable goals for your team to follow, making tough decisions during difficult times, and ensuring there is always an open and clear line of communication within the department.

Top 20 leadership skills

A great leader’s skill set is a varied and comprehensive one — and it should at the very least feature:

1. Effective communication

All great leaders are good communicators — they have the ability to get their point across in a constructive manner and have strong interpersonal skills. They must master all forms of communication, including one-on-ones, company meetings and in written form. You should have the ability to be sensitive to personal situations and give team members the time to share their thoughts and problems.

2. Proactivity

A successful leader doesn’t wait for things to happen; they’re proactive and they anticipate desired results. They identify threats and take action against them. They’re constantly thinking of ways to improve and do better. Whether that goal is business-related or personal, they always strive to do better.

3. Ability to motivate

Good leaders and managers inspire their employees to do better, and they motivate those around them. In fact, a Gallup study found that highly engaged and motivated employees can lead to 21% greater profitability. This can also lead to lower turnover rates and reduced absenteeism.

This fire in their belly comes from their passion and pride to be the best and to achieve more than they ever expected. And as the great Maya Angelou once said: “Nothing will work unless you do.” So, if you want to encourage, you need to show people how.

4. Organization

Organizational skills are crucial in management positions. You need to be able to handle a number of different projects and spend ample time on each, ensuring you meet deadlines. If you lack this quality, you should find techniques and methods to help you be more organized.

5. Confidence

Confidence is important in this role, as people will look at you to learn how to behave, particularly when things are going pear-shaped. If you remain calm and confident in all situations, you’ll teach your staff to carry the same air and morale.

Continue Reading: https://www.careeraddict.com/leadership-skills

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:

• Current CRE Trends Facing the Industry in 2023 – Building Careers
• How to Find Fulfillment at Work – Building Careers
• 7 Highly Effective Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance in CRE – Building Careers
• 5 Keys to Effective Business Communication – Building Careers
• Gen Z, millennials in the workplace | Deloitte Insights
• Beyond Happy Hour: Fresh Ideas for Building Authentic CRE Connections – Building Careers
• How Technology is Reshaping CRE – Building Careers

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 Keys to Effective Business Communication – Building Careers
• How to Build Rapport in the CRE Workplace – Building Careers
• Interest Rates Are Falling: What It Means for Commercial Real Estate – Building Careers
• Beyond Happy Hour: Fresh Ideas for Building Authentic CRE Connections – Building Careers
• 5 More Ways to Optimize Your LinkedIn for CRE – Building Careers

Networking.

Maybe it brings to your mind overcrowded happy hours and awkward, forced conversations. But here’s the thing—networking doesn’t have to be a chore.

In commercial real estate (CRE), where relationships are everything, there are way better ways to connect. But you’ll have to think outside the bar tab. If you want to forge lasting and meaningful CRE connections, you just need a little creativity and proactivity.

So, let’s dive into five fresh ideas to make networking feel more like building real relationships and less like a numbers game.

1. Skip the Mixers—Go Niche with Industry Events

Why aimlessly wander around a general networking event when you could be at a focused CRE panel or workshop? These are goldmines for deeper conversations and real connections in the CRE space. Plus, the people there actually care about what you care about—unlike someone cornering you with their elevator pitch at a happy hour.

Here’s how to make it work. First, do a little recon. Who’s speaking? Who’s attending? Really prepare and have a plan. Then, when you’re there, don’t just sit silently in the back. Ask a smart question or two during the session—it’s an easy way to get noticed. Afterward, skip the generic “nice to meet you” emails. Instead, mention something specific they said during the session.

These events are perfect for finding people who geek out about the same things you do, which is way better than pretending to enjoy small talk.

2. Dive Into Online Communities (Yes, They’re Worth It)

Think LinkedIn is just for job-hunting? Think again. It’s also a place where CRE professionals share market insights, industry news, and hot takes. And then there are niche forums or even Reddit threads where you can join conversations that matter to you. The trick here isn’t to lurk in the shadows—it’s to actually engage. Here’s a few tips:

• Comment on posts with something thoughtful (no “great post!” nonsense).
• Share an article or insight you’ve come across, along with your perspective.
• Start a conversation yourself. Got a question or observation about a market trend? Put it out there.

Over time, people will start recognizing your name as someone with ideas worth paying attention to. And guess what? That’s networking, even if it doesn’t feel like it.

3. Team Up on a Local Project

CRE pros are all about impact—on buildings, on cities, on communities. So why not use that to your advantage? Jump into a local project that really matters to you. Whether it’s urban planning, affordable housing, or even a sustainability initiative. Not only are you doing some good, but you’re also meeting others who care about the same things you do.

Let’s say you help organize a community cleanup or assist with a local affordable housing fair. You’re not just shaking hands; you’re working shoulder-to-shoulder with people. That builds connections way faster—and stronger—than handing out business cards.

4. Tap Into CRE Tech Platforms

If you’re already using tools like CoStar, CREXi, or LoopNet for deals, why not use them to cultivate your CRE network, too? These platforms are crawling with other pros looking at the same data you are.

Spot a user whose listings catch your eye? Shoot them a quick message—not to pitch anything but to ask a thoughtful question or start a conversation. Share tips on how you’re using the platform effectively. People love learning hacks. Stay active, whether that means posting insights or simply engaging with others’ activity.

It’s not exactly the same as grabbing coffee, but in today’s tech-driven world, it can be just as effective at creating meaningful CRE connections.

5. Keep It Small and Purposeful

Here’s a radical idea: Forget the big events entirely.

Instead, focus on smaller, tighter-knit groups where you can really build rapport. Breakfast roundtables, book clubs, or even just a casual coffee meetup with a handful of people can be way more rewarding.

Why? Because these settings give you the space to actually connect. No loud music. No juggling a drink and a plate of appetizers. Just real conversations. You know, the way your grandparents used to make deals.

You could even organize your own. A book club for commercial real estate professionals? A brainstorming group for solving zoning challenges? Why not? When you create these spaces, you’re not just networking—you’re becoming a connector. And that’s a power move.

Making CRE Connections Naturally

Networking doesn’t have to be a grind. In fact, it can be a natural part of a healthy work-life balance.

The days of slapping on a name tag and hoping for the best are long gone. By focusing on niche events, digital spaces, meaningful projects, and smaller gatherings, you can build connections that actually matter.

And when those connections come naturally and organically, they last longer. So, ditch the stiff networking events and try something fresh. Your career (and friendships) will thank you.

Sources:

• Networking Events 101: How to Prepare and Make a Lasting Impression
• Proven Principles to Achieve Career Success Without Sacrificing What Matters  – Building Careers
• https://www.crexi.com/blog/ccim-and-how-to-cultivate-your-cre-network
• How to Build Rapport in the CRE Workplace – Building Careers
• 7 Highly Effective Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance in CRE – Building Careers

The commercial real estate (CRE) industry is witnessing a shift as the Federal Reserve takes steps to lower interest rates. With a recent 50 basis points (bps) cut and further reductions expected, the implications for CRE are vast.

But what do falling interest rates really mean for the industry? Currently the US has been facing the prospect of a CRE recession. Will the Fed’s cut be enough to avoid the big slowdown? Let’s explore how this shift can reshape the landscape for developers, investors, and borrowers alike.

Lower Borrowing Costs, Better Opportunities

Perhaps the most immediate and tangible benefit of falling interest rates for commercial real estate is reduced borrowing costs. For CRE stakeholders, this is huge.

Lower rates mean cheaper financing, which can improve the profitability of new projects and reduce the cost of servicing existing debt. As borrowing becomes more affordable, we may see an uptick in activity. Developers could be more motivated to greenlight new projects, while investors might take advantage of lower financing costs to expand their portfolios.

It’s important to note, though, that while financing costs will decrease, the effects won’t be felt evenly across the board. Larger players with access to capital might be quicker to act. But smaller firms could still feel the pinch of high costs until rate cuts fully trickle down.

But balance and caution are called for here. The 10-year Treasury yield is a key benchmark in the real estate world, and rate cuts generally push those yields lower. This can create a more attractive environment for CRE investments as the spread between borrowing costs and expected returns narrows. For developers, this alignment of falling yields and reduced interest rates might make it the perfect time to launch new projects.

That said, while lower rates create a fertile environment for investment, they can also spark competition. As borrowing becomes more accessible, demand for prime assets could drive up prices, creating new challenges for investors looking to capitalize on the favorable conditions.

CRE Fundamentals Looking Good

Historically, when the Fed starts cutting rates, it signals better days ahead for the financial markets. But do lower interest rates in 2024 equal a better 2025 for commercial real estate? CRE has been cooling for a few years now; can it be turned around so quickly?

The ripple effect of easier financial conditions often leads to improved fundamentals in the CRE space. Net operating income (NOI) could grow as businesses find it easier to expand, driving demand for commercial properties.

For CRE professionals, this means a shift toward more favorable conditions for cash flow, underwriting assumptions, and valuation metrics. The current rate cut, although modest in impact for now, signals a broader move toward easier conditions that could open the door in future years for more growth in the sector.

It’s not just new deals that stand to benefit, either. Investors with floating-rate debt could see relief as well, with lower rates making it easier to manage debt service costs. Over time, these developments should contribute to more fluidity in the capital markets, helping to restore positive leverage conditions. In other words, this could be the beginning of a new chapter for CRE.

Looking Ahead: More Cuts to Come?

The Fed’s recent action marks the start of a shift from restrictive to more accommodative monetary policy. And it’s not over yet. Analysts are predicting more cuts by year-end, which could push rates lower. And lower interest rates would ease financial pressures on commercial real estate.

While these reductions are certainly welcome, it’s important to remember that we’re still in the early stages of this easing cycle. The effects will take time to materialize, but as more cuts come, the broader CRE market will likely experience a boost in more tangible ways.

For CRE stakeholders, the Fed’s rate cuts bring cautious optimism. Lower borrowing costs, improved market conditions, and a more favorable investment climate are all on the horizon. But with these opportunities come new challenges – chief among them, increased competition and rising asset prices. Navigating this new landscape will require a careful balance of risk and reward.

As interest rates continue to fall, commercial real estate may be on the cusp of a new growth cycle. And for those ready to leverage this window of opportunity, the potential rewards could be significant.

Sources:

• How to Weather a CRE Recession | Building Careers (buildingrecareers.com)
• Yesterday’s Interest Rate Cut: Understanding the Impact on Commercial (northmarq.com)
• Is Commercial Real Estate Cooling? – Building Careers (buildingrecareers.com)
• Fed Pivots: The Next Chapter for Commercial Real Estate | US | Cushman & Wakefield (cushmanwakefield.com)
• Will the Fed’s Interest Rate Cut Boost US Commercial Real Estate? | Altus Group Insights

If you’re looking for job posting tips to ensure your CRE job post brings in only the most qualified candidates, then this is for you. Because it’s a crowded job market out there. And hiring the wrong person can cost you. Unlock the secret to strategic job posting with the tips we reveal below.

It all starts with creating the right job post. But most companies have to revise their job posting after publishing it. Why? Obviously, they didn’t get it right the first time. And apparently, they weren’t attracting the right talent.

So, here are 10 tips to nail that job listing and get resumes only from the most qualified and talented leads out there. Every one of them is guaranteed to improve the quality of your results.

1. Write Clearly.

Now is not the time to use fun buzzwords that don’t tell prospects much about what is actually required for the position or what the role entails. Be clear, concise, and descriptive. Looking for someone with experience in multi-family? Then state how important this point is.

2. Include Compensation.

It’s the elephant in the room. No one wants to list salary specifics. Yet it’s the #1 most important distinguisher to serious job applicants. So at least state a clear range and what the benefits entail. Of course this is all negotiable. But list some numbers to filter out candidates who would be a waste of your time.

3. Create an Employment Value Proposition.

What is an employment value proposition (EVP)? In short, it’s the sum total of the value that your organization can provide to potential employees. Everything that makes your organization an attractive place to work – from the salary to workplace culture to employee development and team building opportunities – your EVP is a statement that attracts qualified professionals of similar personalities and value sets.

It’s one of the most overlooked job posting tips, but including a clear EVP will automatically draw the right kind of candidates and convince them of the value of committing their time and energy to your team.

4. Help candidates Self-Assess.

Think about it. If you give candidates the right tools within the job posting to assess their fit, you avoid having to filter out unwanted resumes later on. A good job posting saves resources for both your company and the candidates by giving specific markers to gauge if they are a good fit or not.

5. Use the Right Keywords.

Everything is all about the algorithms these days. Technology has reshaped CRE as well as the way we find CRE professionals. If you want your advertisement for this job to land in front of the right people, make sure it corresponds to the same keywords your ideal candidate is searching right now. All the other CRE job posting tips are worthless if your ad doesn’t get seen by the right people.

6. Ask for Help from a Similar Employee

No one ever thinks of this. But why not get help writing the job post from someone already working in the same role or who has the same basic skill set? Ask them to think about what attracts them and what to include in the post. Because they’ll know more than anyone what skills are needed.

7. Format.

Break up text blocks by using sub headers and only 1-3 sentences per paragraph. Clearly define the sections, and consider adding translations for diversity.

8. Prioritize Company Culture/Personality.

Among the most important job posting tips is that new hires who are a good cultural or personality fit tend to perform better than those with the right skills. The saying goes, hire for attitude, train for skills.  Put your company vibe out there in the job post and be specific about the kind of personality that will fit best. Your vibe will attract your tribe.

9. Include Multimedia.

This isn’t just a job description. It’s an advertisement meant to motivate and attract the right talent for your opening. Include eye-catching graphics and video to show off perks and employee experiences. Images of the property and team consistently rank among the top factors candidates look for in a new job.

10. Talk About Onboarding.

It might seem like jumping ahead in the process, but candidates who are committed to success want to know they will be appreciated and fully utilized. In the job posting, include information about your onboarding and new-hire integration process.

In all of these, remember that you can spend the time sorting through and screening dozens of resumes to find one or two worth interviewing – or you can spend that time crafting a strategic job post that will self-screen and automatically bring the right candidates to you. Starting your hiring search right is up to you.

Sources:

• The Cost of a Bad Hire and How to Get it Right | Building Careers, LLC (buildingrecareers.com)
• Actionable Steps to Establish an Employment Value Proposition | Building Careers (buildingrecareers.com)
• How Technology is Reshaping CRE – Building Careers (buildingrecareers.com)
• Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill (hbr.org)
• 10 Steps to Effectively Onboard CRE Hires – Building Careers (buildingrecareers.com)
• Career Opportunities | Hcareers
• How to write an effective job posting to attract the best talent (testgorilla.com)

The fact is, having a paper resume isn’t enough to be hired in commercial real estate (or any industry, for that matter).

You want recruiters to recommend you? You want companies to notice you? You want to be hired? Then you need to change the way you think of a resume. Because, in a broader sense, your resume is your CV plus your social presence (aka LinkedIn).

Therefore, it’s absolutely essential to maximize the impact of your LinkedIn profile to properly display your fit for the job you want and get you the interview. LinkedIn is jam packed with features and tools to help you stand out as the right candidate.

No, LinkedIn isn’t the whole picture. Yes, you still need to craft a CRE resume that stands out, network, partner with a recruiter, and interview prep. There’s more to a job search than social media. But optimizing your LinkedIn for CRE is without a doubt an essential part of the equation.

So, let’s dive into how to get the most out of it.

1. Headshot

The first impression is always going to be your headshot. We’re visual creatures, and a good headshot is going to get you more clicks than the competition. It should be:

• Professional
• Flattering
• High quality
• Not a selfie
• Current

2. Headline

No, this is not where you put your current job title. Yes, that’s what most people do. But your goal isn’t to be like most people; it’s to stand out and craft a LinkedIn profile for the CRE job you want.

It’s the first thing recruiters and hiring managers see. It’s not hid by a see-more button. And it helps categorize your unique value. In short, it’s prime LinkedIn real estate.

Your goal is to aim for a line that combines your current and previous functions and expertise along with the job title you want. Be specific to help identify your specialty. Communicate both what your specialty is and what you offer a prospective company.

In other words, don’t just leave it at “Property Manager.” Instead maybe opt for, “Accomplished Property Manager in Senior Housing Leveraging Tech Systems for Max Results.”

3. Your About Summary

So many commercial real estate professionals get confused at this point. This isn’t where you copy and paste boilerplate about your company, your job description, or your resume. This is where you tell the story of your experience and accomplishments.

List the property and project types you’ve focused on. For example: retail, ground-ups, mixed-use, etc. And don’t stop there! Add the scale and scope of these projects to give employers a better sense of what your baseline experience is.

Any specialties like LIHTC or senior living? What about cold-storage or high-rise office? Where were these projects or assets located?

4.  Network

Yes, you should have a lot of contacts. Doesn’t quality matter? You betcha! But quantity does, too.

Ideally, you’d like recruiters to see that 500+ tag on your profile, but they should at least see you’ve networked with 200 or more professionals in the industry to let them know you’re committed and well nestled in this industry.

Update your status often to stay in the feed and open networking opportunities. Frequent profile updates increase your visibility and search ranking, so check in every week or so to spark conversations.

And join LinkedIn groups, too. These don’t just look good on your profile; they also provide a forum for improvement and advancement in your market. There are several LinkedIn groups every CRE professional should join. So, start plugging in.

5. Categorize Properly

LinkedIn allows you to choose a category that best fits your industry and specialty. Explore the options and select the one that fits best. The names of categories have evolved over the years, and some may still need improvement. But choose the best one for your industry category.

Previously, LinkedIn categorized Commercial Real Estate under “Leasing Non-residential Real Estate.” But there is now an option for “Real Estate” and “Real Estate and Equipment Rental Services.”

6. Expertise

Don’t skip the certifications, education, and experience sections if you want to make LinkedIn work for your CRE job search. State your credentials clearly. If you have a CPA, say so. List any and all previous positions that demonstrate proficiency in your target field. List your honors and awards. Include any CRE-related tech and software experience that may set you apart, such as:

• Sage
• Procore
• Yardi
• MRI
• Adobe Suite
• Lease Matrix
• Argus

7. Keywords

Don’t forget to set up your LinkedIn profile for CRE recruiters. Keep hiring managers in mind when writing. Sprinkle in keywords associated with your market and industry.

The Recommendations section is a great place to do this, too. One thing that can enhance profile visibility and searchability is recommendations that contain relevant keywords and phrases. It improves your SEO and increases your chances of appearing in relevant search results for your target job.

For those commercial real estate professionals in search of the next advancement, putting the thought and effort into optimizing your LinkedIn for CRE keywords and specialties can make all the difference. With a little thoughtful optimization, you can help recruiters and hiring companies find you, better identify your value, and qualify your expertise in ways that will set you apart and land you the CRE job you’ve been looking for.

Sources:

• 5 Ways to Make Your CRE Resume Stand Out – Building Careers (buildingrecareers.com)
• How to Interview Prep to Get the Job You Want [10 Key Steps] – Building Careers (buildingrecareers.com)
• (29) 7 LinkedIn Groups Every CRE Professional Should Join | LinkedIn
• Which Tech Tools Help CRE Pros the Most? (globest.com)
• The Ultimate Guide To Crafting A LinkedIn Profile That Recruiters Love (forbes.com)
• (29) 7 Ways to Boost Your LinkedIn Profile to Get Hired Fast! | LinkedIn

What’s new in the world of California CRE? Right now, the commercial real estate in general is in flux. And this is particularly true in the California market.

Technological shifts and evolving use patterns are changing the ways buildings are built and used and sold. The concept of the office has been forever altered with work-from-home becoming more and more prevalent. Without a doubt, CRE is rapidly changing.

In California, there is concern about a recent slowdown. Some are concerned about a CRE recession. The market has certainly cooled down from the bull market of previous years. But recent commercial deals show a lot of activity, some positive, some negative. The California CRE market is complex, and recent developments in sales and construction reflect this dynamic.

Below is a look at just some of the new activity, deals, and developments in commercial real estate for the California market.

California CRE News Roundup

• Intuitive Surgical, a medical device manufacturer, acquired properties in Santa Clara in late 2023 as part of a large plan to develop a 1.17-million-square-foot campus. This deal totaled $157 million.
• 99 Cents Only filed for bankruptcy in April, 2024. The liquidation will vacate 3.8 million square feet of retail space in Southern California.
• Marcus & Millichap closed a $27 million sale of The Abbey Food & Bar and The Chapel at The Abbey in West Hollywood last month. The iconic nightspots were sold to Tristan Schukraft, who intends to continue their legacy.
• Thousand Oaks neighborhood saw the sale of a 400-unit apartment and townhouse portfolio in December, 2023. The sale totaled $171 million.
• Disneyland received final approval from the city of Anaheim for a $1.9 billion expansion in April. This massive plan will include restaurants, hotels, and a complete redesign of the Disneyland theme park. This represents Disney’s largest investment in the attraction since the 1990s.
• Goodman, a global industrial property and digital infrastructure specialist has broken ground on their new Goodman Commerce Center. The 500,000-square-foot development is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
• The University of Southern California released their new Casden Real Estate Economic Forecast in Q4 of 2023, forecasting a 2-4% increase for apartment rents in all SoCal housing markets over the next two years.
• The Mission Rock Partners development team recently held the grand opening of China Basin Park. The 5-acre waterfront park is intended to be the new central gathering place and regional destination for the Mission Rock neighborhood.
• Disney announced in Q4 of last year that they will invest $60 billion in their theme parks and cruise business, an infusion of capital for their California operations as well as other locations.
• The California Supreme Court is set to hear arguments this week on the constitutionality of a ballot measure intended to reverse Los Angeles’ real estate transfer tax. Advocates argue that Measure ULA has significantly reduced multi-family sales.
• The Santa Ana Development, a shovel-ready property less than a mile from downtown Santa Ana, recently sold to a local investor for $1.16 million.
• Downtown’s The James recently sold for $74 million. The luxury apartment complex located in downtown San Jose was transferred at what is considered a bargain price.