Four Pieces of Advice for Young CRE Pros

ATLANTA—In a competitive commercial real estate environment, young professionals need all the advice they can get. GlobeSt.com caught up with four leaders in the industry to ask this question: What advice would you give to young CRE professionals rising through the ranks? The answers are priceless.

Thad Ellis, senior vice president of Cousin's properties: "Information is key to all for success. Technology is a powerful tool. However, using the telephone and meeting with customers and prospects face to face will always be more successful than social media and e-mail."

Judd Bobilin, founder of Chance Partners: "Don't ever give up. Focus on one thing and persevere."

Allen Aldridge, senior vice president of acquisitions, dispositions and asset management for Atlanta-based KBS Realty Advisors: "Most importantly to love what you do and have fun doing it. Passion brings energy, which will result in success. Embrace and enjoy the process of learning, ask questions and listen to everyone both above and below you along the way. Also, be prepared for the next downturn and don't assume things go as planned. And when that downturn occurs, use a positive attitude and determination to outperform those that hesitate and are indecisive."

Bob Peterson, CEO of Carter: "Find a specialty that aligns with your strengths and what you are passionate about and seek to become the very best in that area. Work with a team, a company or in an environment that you really enjoy. Finally, and this one is important, work with clients and customers who share your values and really want you to be successful and make money. Don't be afraid to fire your customer and spend your energy looking for a new and better one."