Commercial Investment Real Estate is the magazine of the CCIM Institute, the leading provider of commercial real estate education. CIRE covers market trends, current developments, and business strategies within the commercial real estate field.
Issue link: http://cire.epubxp.com/i/164181
CIRE: With so many major brokerage firms in the industry these days, what drove your decision to be an independent broker? Ellermann: Since I was young, my father always encouraged me to pave my own path. He was my biggest advocate and toughest critic. He was a pioneer in sales efectiveness consulting and a principal at William M. Mercer and Ernst & Young due to his entrepreneurial drive. Afer a long career in the corporate world, he grew several of his own successful companies. In the months before he passed, he encouraged me to uncover the core of what I wanted in my own life. We discussed the entrepreneurial opportunities of a career in commercial real estate — a business with high risks and high rewards. I started with a local f rm that I trusted. When I wanted to take my career to the next level, I brought a book of business to my own frm, and I maintain relationships with every client I've ever worked with. I thrive on the boutique essence of entrepreneurship and having full accountability and control of my own endeavors. I'm very grateful for the work ethic and loyalty my father provided me — which cascades down to every client and relationship I've made in this business. CIRE: What advantages have the CCIM education and professional network offered you in the short time you've been a designee? Ellermann: Te education has made me a better commercial real estate professional, and the CCIM network has put me in a position to grow in my career. As an independent practitioner, I wouldn't have the wherewithal to meet the kind of professionals I have since earning the designation. For example, as a volunteer at the CCIM booth during the International Council of Shop- ping Centers RECon 2013, I had an opportunity to work with and meet fellow designees and other major hitters with global brokerages simply by promoting the pin and the CCIM network. My overall experience with the CCIM Institute has been the highlight of my career thus far. I've learned from, networked with, and befriended best-in-class instructors and colleagues who've opened doors to greater opportunity. CIRE: What advice can you offer to others who are just getting started in the industry? Ellermann: Creative opportunities exist in all market cycles. Jennifer Norbut is senior editor of Commercial Investment Real Estate. If you have a story worth sharing in CCIM Q&A;, send it to jnorbut@ccim.com. Tell Your Clients Who You Really Are. Want to make sure your clients and potential clients know you're a CCIM? Ten afx your business card to the latest copy of Commercial Investment Real Estate magazine and leave it with them afer your next meeting. Or mail a copy with a personalized note. Bulk copies of CIRE are available to CCIM designees at greatly reduced prices for use in their personal marketing campaigns. 5 copies 10 copies 30 copies Current Issue $15 $25 $60 1-Year Bulk Subscription (6 Issues) $90 $150 $360 Limited quantities available, so call today to place your order. Shipping fees will be added to non-U.S. orders. Call 800-621-7027, ext. 4507. CCIM.com September | October | 2013 13