Pam Golding Properties, Pietermaritzburg
Why did you decide to pursue a career in property?
For 18 years I was self-employed while raising my three boys, but last year I realised they were growing up and needing me less. I decided I wanted a career that was challenging and didn’t leave me confined and bored stiff, a career where what you earn is relative to the effort you put in. I met with a friend (who is also a principal), armed with a list of questions about the industry. As soon as she said I would make a great agent, my fate was sealed.
What do you find to be the most enjoyable and the most challenging aspects of the job?
I love interacting with people. I enjoy reading them and adapting my approach in a way will establish a good relationship. Making people happy is really important to me. The most challenging aspect of the job has to be the admin – I have an assistant to take care of my paperwork. Oh, and trying to remember all the properties on the market and their prices. I have a shocking memory – thank goodness for laptops.
What characteristics, in your opinion, make for a great estate agent/broker and why?
Honesty and transparency when dealing with clients and colleagues are very important. You obviously rely on clients for work, but you also need to have a good relationship with your colleagues, as teamwork helps a great deal. One also needs to be self-motivated and have personal goals to strive towards. I am tempted to use the words “ambitious” and “competitive”, but in a healthy and personal way. I have also noticed that enthusiasm is infectious, and I am really enthusiastic.
