Company: DTZ Barnicke Vancouver Ltd

Position: leasing and sales

Employed: since June 2003

Where did you go to school? What program did you attend?
I attended the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) in Burnaby, British Columbia from September 2000 to June 2003. I completed two diploma programs: first in business administration with a specialty in integrated management studies, and then a diploma in marketing management, specializing in commercial real estate.

What drew you to your current field?
Real estate was not my first choice even though I have many family members quite active in this industry. I never really considered real estate too seriously because I didn't want to be seen as following the footsteps of my older brother. But after seeing the success he's had and realizing there's no shame into looking up to your big brother, I made the decision to make the move.

Tell us a bit about your responsibilities.
I was offered my position shortly after my group had finished our BCIT term project with the company. I was originally hired as director of research but shortly after, made the move into the brokerage side of the business. In this business, there are essentially two parties you deal with: landlords/owners and tenants/buyers. To make it simple, my responsibilities come down to marketing and site selection. In working with property owners, I assist them with marketing their properties to find tenants or purchasers for a disposition. In working with tenants/buyers, I help them locate and select sites that are desirable for their business. This can range from finding a retail store, office space or warehouse space.

What are some skills or lessons you've learned during your time on the job?
Always keep on learning. Don't ever think you know everything. People are generally good natured and are willing to help when you ask for it.

What are your future career aspirations?
To be one of the top commercial real estate brokers in Vancouver based not only on earnings but strong ethics and business practice standards.

What advice do you have for students looking to land their first job?
My biggest suggestion for students is to be proactive in their job hunting. Searching through classified ads isn't going to find you the job you really want. I was once told that 75 percent of positions filled were not advertised. Also, talk to the people you already know and meet as many people as you can who are already in the industry you're trying to get into. Networking is something you should be doing at all times. Don't be afraid to call these people up and ask to take them for a coffee or five minutes of their time. Use the meeting as an opportunity to ask questions and gather information about that specific industry, not as a job interview. jp
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