Sometimes, the biggest opportunities for growth come disguised as challenges. That was definitely the case for me back in July 2022. My incredible boss, who was battling cancer (and thankfully won!), decided to step down as Penang Branch Manager. He saw potential in me, and offered me the role.
Taking the Leap
Now, let me tell you, my stomach did a flip-flop! Here I was, with zero experience managing a branch, suddenly responsible for the entire Penang team and all the issues that came with it. The property agency world can be complex, and the uncertainties felt endless.
But, I took a deep breath and decided to go for it. And let me tell you, it’s been a whirlwind ever since – in the best way possible!
The Power of Communication
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the power of communication. As a manager, I discovered that how you say things matters just as much as what you say. A slight change in approach can completely alter the outcome.
Take, for example, encouraging my team to gather more tenant details before setting up meetings. Instead of simply pointing out mistakes, I remembered the “sandwich method” I learned at Toastmasters. This approach involves complimenting a team member’s effort, offering constructive criticism, and then ending with another positive note. It’s been incredibly effective!
Leading by Example
Interestingly, I’ve found that many team members prefer one-on-one sessions to traditional team meetings or training. These individual interactions allow me to delve deeper into their specific challenges. It might surprise you, but leading isn’t always about having all the answers.
One day, an agent approached me with a complex legal situation involving a deceased beneficiary and property sale. Honestly, I didn’t know the answer off the top of my head. But, I did what any good leader should – I didn’t shy away. I reached out to my trusted lawyer, got an expert response, and then repackaged it into a clear, concise set of guidelines for the agent.
Discovering My Leadership Potential
This experience, and many others like it, have shown me a side of myself I never knew existed: a leader and a trainer. It turns out, sharing my knowledge and experiences isn’t as scary as I thought. In fact, I find immense satisfaction in helping others succeed.
Your Turn!
Have you ever taken a chance on a role that pushed you outside your comfort zone? How did it help you learn and grow? Share your experiences in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this post, consider subscribing for more leadership and growth insights!
买卖地产 mymyproperty.com 
Leave a comment