"So I passed the Alabama State Real Estate Exam,  Now how about a JOB!"   The Job Interview

Training

The important questions for you! Training!  What will the broker and company do to insure my success? How successful has the training program in this company been in the past?  How many new agents have been successful with their program?  Names? Will there be other new agents who will be training with me? Five Training methods 1.  Training manager  -  Larger companies may have a sole individual responsible for training.  They may also be a part of the interview process. 2.  Instructional Training -  A written program of instruction which you are required to complete.  These are usually professionally prepared and teach fundamentals which have made other new agents successful.   3.  Videos -  Possibly a complete training program which you must complete providing the fundamentals of the industry. 4. Training partner - I affectionately call this the Judy method since Judy was my first real estate trainer.  I was assigned to Judy and I went with her on her listings, showings and performed those requirements which she gave me.  At a later time she accompanied me on my showings and listings and  critiqued my actions.  For about a year Judy was concerned with how I was doing offering me assistance, praise and suggestions during the entire period.  Although no longer in the area she was always a person I could call, a true friend to this day. 5. Corporate Program - Some of the major national companies have their own training programs comprised of tapes and other activities the new agents are to perform.  These programs have been professionally prepared and tested on a wide range of new agents. Other questions may include how long will the training last? and possibly meeting the  actual trainer. I would also encourage meeting new agents who have been a product of their training program.

$ Money $

There are 2 big questions to ask and although money is important the money is less important then training which will lead to your overall success as a real estate agent. FIRST, what are the costs I am going to experience, initially and regularly?  Different companies have different requirements and provide some items at no cost to their new agents.  I have put together a list of these costs which agents I have taught and who work at different companies have had to pay.  A partial list of these costs can be found on my web page:   The Cost of Doing Business. SECOND,  how much will I be paid based upon a commission the company receives from a sale of a property.  What percentage?  What costs are required to be paid out of "my" side of the sale?  And finally just to insure you understand all the costs, have the broker provide you an estimate on your income from the sale of a $150,000 property.

The Future

What are the Future plans for the company.? Future growth? What Future plans could involve you?

Other Considerations

What administrative support will you be provided.  Typing, copying, supplies, etc. Floor Duty  - if yes, then how often.  Request to see a copy of their floor duty schedule and floor duty instructions folder. What support will the company provide in Advertising and what support will be specifically provided to you, your picture, your name and your phone number. Will the company provide your first business cards?

.AND FINALLY - Be sure to send a thank you letter after the interview thanking the broker for their time and consideration.  Good manners are always "in fashion."