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Real estate professionals are always reachable, with a phone at their hip or nearby 24/7; however, it is complicating their work/life balance.
The constant demands on the profession have resulted in an overwhelming majority of REINZ members facing work/life balance issues.
The latest REINZ survey of its members found 82 per cent of branch managers struggled to find the goldilocks zone between work and play, while those who had been in the industry between six and 10 years sat at 80 per cent.
Stress also ranked high for branch managers, affecting 69 per cent of them, and 69 per cent of those in property management.
“It’s inevitable that the real estate profession is prone to pressure by its very nature,” REINZ chief executive Bindi Norwell said.
“The property market fluctuates and, when it’s quiet, the stresses on agents can be increased as a result of reduced income. While in busy times, the sheer exhaustion of managing constant listings, marketing and sales as well as being available for vendors and buyers during a negotiation often late into the evenings and managing open homes over weekend can affect their physical or mental wellbeing.”
REINZ is encouraging real estate agencies to be aware of the challenges their team face and be proactive if someone is struggling and appears tired, quiet, withdrawn or anxious.
“A good manager will notice signs and symptoms and discreetly talk to the person, maybe offering advice on where to find medical help. Many agencies have comprehensive support mechanisms in place now, but it requires ongoing vigilance to ensure valued members of the team do not slip through the cracks,” she said.
The stress that comes with always being available could impact agents’ sleep, diet and exercise. This is why a daily structure is beneficial to health and wellbeing, and personal wellbeing is not overlooked, Ms Norwell said.
“Professionals mustn’t be embarrassed to ask for help and managers should be prepared to listen.”
Ms Norwell is aware most real estate professionals genuinely love their jobs and sees no reason why they should not.
“The best tool any of us have is communication, and if we use it well, there’s every possibility of finding a productive outcome.”
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