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‘Coping’ not an effective armour for agents

By Grace Ormsby
16 August 2023 | 11 minute read
John Cunningham new reb

While mental fortitude does offer up the key to real estate success, it’s not the kind of thing you can fake ‘til you make it, stresses an industry leader.

RiSE Initiative chairman John Cunningham said too many agents are wearing ‘coping’ like an armour – rather than building out their skills in resilience and adaptability.

He acknowledged that “tough markets require tough agents, but true toughness comes from the inside out, not the outside in”.

It’s why he’s pushing for the prioritisation of mental wellness, calling it “an essential part of the discipline of being a top-performing agent or property manager”.

“Mental wellness is essential for maintaining a clear and focused mind. Regular breaks, exercise and mindfulness routines can help both agents and property managers handle stress and maintain a healthy work/life balance.”

The chairman believes embracing resilience, cultivating empathy and building out a strong support network are skills that are “just as important as scripts and dialogues” when it comes to career success.

“Agents need to develop the ability to bounce back from setbacks and turn challenges into opportunities,” he continued.

“Resilience involves a combination of determination, adaptability and positive thinking, but it can be impossible to achieve that if you’re running on empty.

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Mr Cunningham went on to flag how agents act as trusted advisors and guide clients through life-changing decisions, so they “need to be able to connect” with clients on a human level.

“Cultivating empathy and understanding the needs of our clients as humans rather than transactions enhances the overall experience for everyone and builds long-lasting relationships that in turn supports long-term business,” he raised.

From the leader’s perspective, a strong support network can make a world of difference in a real estate career, noting: “At the RiSE Initiative, we have found first-hand how surrounding yourself with positive colleagues, mentors and friends provides emotional support and fosters a sense of camaraderie within the industry.”

He continued: “Navigating the dual challenges of the property market and your career can be a daunting task for any real estate professional.

“However, with the right mindset and a focus on mental wellness, it is possible to flourish.”

Pointing to the benefits of professionals attending the upcoming RiSE Thrive 2023 event down in Melbourne, he reiterated: “At the RiSE Initiative, we are committed to supporting mental wellness and empowering professionals to thrive in all market conditions.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Grace Ormsby

Grace Ormsby

Grace is a journalist across Momentum property and investment brands. Grace joined Momentum Media in 2018, bringing with her a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) from the University of Newcastle. She’s passionate about delivering easy to digest information and content relevant to her key audiences and stakeholders.

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