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Catherine Rodriguez enjoys her role and breaking the stereotypes associated with real estate, but her dream is to be a back-up dancer for R&B queen Beyonce.
When did you first join the PM industry?
February 2013.
Why did you join the PM industry?
I interviewed for a reception role, just looking for a change and challenge from the office admin role I had at my uncle's law firm, and from that interview my soon-to-be director knew I would be perfect for property management. Starting in reception has really shaped how I operate as a property manager today. It was an invaluable experience.
What would you like your next career step to be?
To keep gaining experience and knowledge and see what the real estate world can offer me!
What piece of technology do you find the most useful for your business and why?
We love technology and innovation, particularly our use of videos. Property and maintenance updates for landlords, marketing videos for our soon-to-be tenants and condition reports. Videos help us connect with our clients and the industry.
What area of PM needs more training focused on it and why?
Ongoing training in all areas from the basics in day-to-day tasks through to knowing relevant legislation – there always something we can be doing to improve and sharing ideas and experiences with the team, together with formal training and further reading is important.
What skills does a PM need to be successful?
Strong time management and interpersonal skills.
Where do you believe a PM's responsibilities should start and end?
I go above and beyond for tenants and landlords alike and that’s why I am where I am today – it’s a service-based industry. However, we are not on the job 24/7 and having a professional relationship with our clients, both tenants and landlords, where they understand that is important and vital to ongoing success.
How do you deal with disgruntled and aggressive tenants?
Empathy, patience, firmly setting out the options and solutions, and knowing when to end a conversation if emotions are starting to run high. No one wants to feel unfairly treated – and remembering that we are the messenger in these situations is very important too!
What are the most stressful aspects of your job?
Unfortunately many people have had negative experiences in the past relating to real estate and it can be difficult when those stereotypes, poor experiences or low expectations are carried on. However, that is also one of the most satisfying parts of the role – challenging and changing those stereotypes.
How do you relax after a stressful day at work?
I play football, so training and having a laugh after a big day in the office with my teammates is a great release – although I'm often slow and sore on a Monday morning in the office following Sunday's game!
What would you be doing if you weren’t in the PM industry?
I wouldn't mind being a professional footballer, but would also settle for being a back-up dancer for Beyonce and touring the world with Queen Bey.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Achieving positive results for clients, ticking off personal goals and feeling appreciated.
How would you describe a perfect property management day?
A little bit of everything – but no leaks or burst hot water units please! A few laughs with the team and a Melbourne Real Estate social club event to finish off the day!
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