Networking and Playing the Game
I am a student currently looking to break into commercial real estate and I am trying to figure out how to approach interviews, networking, etc. What are y'alls most effective approaches to gaining connections and landing jobs? I have observed that simply kissing ass is a fairly effective  strategy for other students, but I also have very limited real world experience in a professional setting and could be wrong. Thoughts are much appreciated !
[{"id": "fgndxl0", "text": "In sales, you want to be doing 20% of the talking yourself and be listening for the remaining 80%.  That\u2019s a tough ratio to achieve, but the message behind it is to ask questions. Interviews are no different. The way you achieve that ratio is through asking questions. Approach it with the mindset that you are not only being interviewed, but also interviewing them. Same goes for when you are networking and meeting new people. Generally speaking, most people like talking about themselves, and if you bring that out in others they will naturally want to be around you. The key is to pick up on things they like to talk about, and keep asking questions about the subject. You\u2019ll tell based off of their responses what they are into. Their eyes will light up, and their face will glow. An aura will surround people when you take interest them. \n\nThis is coming from someone who spent 3 years in the door to door industry and just landed a job in commercial real estate with no prior experience or schooling.", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fgngsp9", "text": "For networking/landing a job as a student, I would just try and make it very known to everyone that you are looking to start your career in CRE, and make it clear you are looking for connections and advice to do so. This way people who have connections within the industry will help make the introduction.\n\nGeneral networking advice, is just find high school alum, college alum, friends or family that work in the industry and ask to setup a call for there advice. From the call, subtly let them know your looking for a job and ask if they\u2019re hiring, additionally at the end of the call or meeting ask if they have any other contacts in the industry that they can get you in touch with. This way with each meeting/phone call your network grows.\n\nIf you can\u2019t find where to start, begin staying after classes and asking your professors if they know anyone in the industry personally or if they know any alumni who work in the industry and if they can make the introduction.", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fgnhd9y", "text": "Wear a short skirt", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fgni37z", "text": "Volunteer at your local NAIOP or other industry group (CCIM, ULI, etc., or all the above).  Help set up lunch meetings, board meetings, etc.  People on those boards are typically industry leaders, and if you impress them with your work ethic and willingness to learn, doors should start opening.", "replies": [{"id": "fgnjcbl", "text": "Recently joined ULI, thank you  for your reply!", "replies": [{"id": "fgp86y8", "text": "CCIM and your local chapter is worth it. Seriously, if you can, just join as a local member. When you feel monetarily sound, I recommend doing the courses and getting pinned.", "replies": [], "depth": 3}], "depth": 2}], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fgnyiik", "text": "If you're trying to land a job just start cold-calling companies you would be interested in working for and follow up 5 times over the next 5 weeks until you get an interview.  CRE is a phone-call &amp; follow up industry so you gotta show you know that and are willing to do such.  Worked for me!", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fgo0d8a", "text": "Take your time.  Talk to as many people as possible.  Make real relationships.  Don\u2019t kiss anyone\u2019s ass.", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fgp5id3", "text": "I posted this in another forum. You may find it useful.\n\n[https://www.reddit.com/r/Landlord/comments/eltvp5/landlord\\_usa\\_my\\_company\\_has\\_100\\_properties\\_60m/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Landlord/comments/eltvp5/landlord_usa_my_company_has_100_properties_60m/)", "replies": [], "depth": 1}]