Jana Smith, Harcourts Hermanus
Jana Smith has been a prominent figure in the property industry for over 30 years, leading teams in selling residential, commercial, and agricultural properties, as well as handling rentals.
She is known for nurturing individuals under her mentorship, guiding them to become better versions of themselves. Her belief in teamwork is evident through her open-door policy, patience, and dedication to building trust and confidence among her co-workers, creating a workplace that feels like family.
Living by the Harcourts values, which emphasize putting people first, doing the right thing, being courageous, and embracing fun and laughter, Jana's affiliation with the Harcourts group goes back to the time when Homenet Real Estate was active in South Africa. Over the years, her business and industry excellence has evolved alongside the brand, bringing her to her current role in an internationally recognized Real Estate Company.
Q & A with JANA
IW: What would you do during a typical day?
JANA: During a typical day, my schedule is dynamic and diverse. I start by viewing my emails and correspondence, followed by meeting with some of my team members, to discuss current projects and address any challenges they may be facing. Throughout the day, I may conduct training sessions for new agents or provide ongoing mentoring to existing team members. Additionally, I stay informed about market trends and industry developments to ensure I’m up to date with the latest information.
IW: How did you get into this industry?
JANA: My journey in the property industry began 41 years ago, when I recognized my passion for real estate and its potential for positive impact, both personally and professionally. Coming from an educational background, I say the opportunity to combine my knowledge and expertise with the dynamic world of property. Starting as a real estate agent, I quickly realized the value of nurturing and training others in this field. This led me to establish my own real estate business, where I would not only serve clients, but also empower and guide aspiring agents to succeed.
IW: What do you enjoy most about your job?
JANA: What I enjoy most about my job is the diverse angles to a day. Nothing is constant and each day bring its own challenges. I also enjoy the ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my team. Guiding my team to serve their clients through the process of finding their dream homes or making sound investment decisions, brings me immense satisfaction.
Witnessing the growth and success of the real estate agents I’ve trained and mentored is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the ever-changing nature of the property industry keeps me engaged and excited to face new challenges.
IW: What is the most challenging part of your job?
JANA: The most challenging part of my job is managing the complexities of the real estate market, which can be influenced by various economic factors and fluctuating trends. Staying ahead in such a competitive industry requires continuous adaption and a deep understanding of market dynamics. Balancing the responsibility of running a successful business, while providing dedicated mentoring can also be demanding. However, the challenges serve as opportunities for growth and improvement.
IW: What advice would you give others that are looking to move into this industry?
JANA: For those aspiring to enter the property industry, I would offer the following advice:
· Invest in education and knowledge: Continuously learn about the real estate market, legalities, and best practices. Knowledge is a powerful tool for success.
· Seek mentorship and guidance: Find experienced professionals who can mentor and guide you through the early stages of your career.
· Build relationships: Success in real estate relies on strong relationships with clients, colleagues and industry peers. Networking is crucial.
· Embrace integrity: Always prioritize honesty and integrity in your dealings with clients and colleagues. Trust is the foundation of a successful career.
· Be patient and persistent: The real estate industry can be challenging, but perseverance and patience are key to achieving long-term success.
By following these principles and being dedicated to excellence, you can create a fulfilling and prosperous career in the property industry.