Published on: 02 February 2019
Last Updated on: 27 July 2022
Will a career in real estate work for you? It can be an exciting and challenging career change. Deciding on whether or not a real estate career will work for you depends on your personality. You will discover a new level of independence at work and there will always be new challenges.
Before you dive in, consider some of the pros and cons of a career in real estate.
Pros of Becoming a Real Estate Agent:
1) Money – Real estate agents work on a commission. Whenever you sell (or help your clients buy) property, you earn a percentage of that sale. Given that property is usually the most expensive purchase and investment the average family makes, that’s a large chunk of change. There’s no salary cap. If you can find a way to make a million dollars on commissions, there’s no one to put a cap on your earnings the way there would be in a salary job.
2) You’re Your Own Boss – Working as your own boss, you’ve got an unprecedented level of freedom to come and go as you please and vacation when you want.
3) Excitement – Real estate agents are constantly on the move. They’re always out there meeting new people and making new deals. If you’re the type to get bored at a desk job where every day feels the same, a real estate career will shake things up.
4) Knowledge & Experience Pay Off – The more you know, the more you sell. If you love to learn new things and experience more, it’s a career path that will pay off. You will have the chance to become an expert, not just on a neighborhood or types of property, but how to work with people and make sales.
Cons of a Real Estate Career:
1) Getting Started – The flipside of working in a commission-based industry is that it takes time to get started. If you’re working for yourself, there’s no one to pay your salary when you’re not making sales. It will take time before you can find clients and make sales, so be prepared financially to survive until you get the ball rolling. Many people start off part-time until their careers develop.
2) You Need Discipline – The downside to working as your own boss is that you need discipline. No one’s going to make sales and put money in your pocket if you’re spending all your time at the beach.
3) You Need to Know when to Take a Break – For others, the problem might be the exact opposite. If you’ve got a workaholic streak, you’ll need to discipline yourself to put the work away when it’s time to rest and recharge. Find a way to disconnect from your job and relax.
Real estate can be an incredibly rewarding career if you’ve got the personality to thrive in an environment where you’re independent and constantly meeting new challenges. Earning your real estate license is something you can do quickly and cheaply. With online real estate schools like RealEstateU, it doesn’t take long to start getting your real estate license.
Don’t worry if you’re not an expert in homes or home renovation. Your ability to tell whether a home has hard or soft water will not determine your success as an agent. The ability to work with people, work hard and go above and beyond for your clients will ultimately matter much more! However, the more knowledgeable you are in all facets of real estate, the better you will be at ensuring your clients make educated, long-term decisions.
Once you sign up for online real estate classes, you’re free to complete them at your own pace. They will prepare you for your state real estate license exam, and most states require you to complete the courses before you try writing the exam. With online real estate courses from real estate, you get all the resources you need to succeed at your exam, including video/audio lectures, a 200-page PDF textbook, and lessons from top real estate experts.
Get started on your career change today. Sign up for online real estate classes and be your own boss.
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Navigating hard interview questions can be a challenge most job seekers face. Especially when these tough questions do not have a correct answer!
Knowing how to answer tricky questions while maintaining professionalism can set you apart.
Below, we break down some of the difficult interview questions asked during interviews. Then, offer strategies for crafting solid responses and outline the professional etiquette necessary to leave that long-lasting positive impression.
#Hard Question 1 - “Tell me about yourself.”
This is more of a statement than a question, but it's the opening question so many people have trouble with.
It's the simplest thing imaginable, yet people seem to need to learn how to do it. The trick here is that you don’t have to tell your entire life story; in fact, please don’t.
Stick to basic information and then cut to educational and professional qualifications, which can help you in the job role you are interviewing for.
#Hard Question 2 - “What are Your Weaknesses?”
I know that everyone says not to do this. You know be all quirky and make a witty joke! Not very ideal interview skills.
But interviewers now really appreciate quick wits!
I recently, however, did it in a big interview.
My answer to this question was:
"Since I am assuming there is a finite amount of time for each applicant, and there are many qualified applications, my biggest weakness would be running out of time to tell you how fantastic I am."
It worked, too. One of the serious ones even had a light hint of a grin on her face!
It’s a bit of a trap, but interviewers just want to know that you’re self-aware and working on it.
Nobody’s perfect, so feel free to use a real one. Just make sure it’s not a disqualifying one. For example, do not give stupid and vague answers like "I am a perfectionist, and since I always tend to give a perfect copy of my work, it affects my mental health."
Derailing mental health because of crippling OCD is a serious condition, and you shouldn't be using this to put yourself on a pedestal!
#Hard Question 3 - “How Are You Working on Your Weaknesses?”
Among the hard interview questions, weaknesses will take a good chunk of it. If you answer the previous question well, this question will inevitably come your way!
Example: “I’m trying to improve my presentation skills. I’ve been joining Toastmasters and practicing my speaking.”
“I am currently focused on improving my communication skills, particularly my public speaking. I am working on being a more persuasive speaker so that I can do well in this class and professional presentations. One area that I believe would help me be more effective is learning to use visual aids to give better presentations.”
Give detailed steps that you are taking to turn your weaknesses into strengths.
#Hard Question 4 - “Why Our Company?”
Let me get this straight! You are fooling no one by implying this is the only interview you have lined up.
This is one of the reasons why you need to be professional and do thorough research about the company who is interviewing you. It begins with tailoring your resume, and cover letter based on the company's job role.
Next, knowing about the job role and what they are looking for.
Among all the hard interview questions, this is particularly a test of how well you’ve researched the company.
Interviewers want to see genuine interest in the role and organization. First, state the company’s values, culture, or projects that match your interests and goals. Second, communicate what you can contribute to their team.
Pro Tip: Be detailed! Don’t just say, “I like the company’s mission.” Explain what specifically appeals to you about their objectives/goals and why you are passionate about what they do.
#Hard Question 5 - “Why Should We Hire You?”
This is your chance to tell them why they should take a chance on you. Share with them your top strengths that would be compatible with the job posting.
Think of it as a quick elevator pitch. (Pro interview tip: You should always have an elevator pitch about yourself ready).
As if you entered an elevator with the CEO of your dream company – 30 seconds – how would you sell yourself to him/her?
You want to make it clear that YOUR skills, experience, and confidence make you unmistakably perfect for this job or this company!
“I have been in customer service for five years and have never missed my performance goals. I’m looking forward to using my abilities in your company to help customer satisfaction.”
#Hard Question 6 - “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?”
This question is to ensure two things:
Whether you are committed to the position you are getting.
Do you have the zeal to do better and strive for a promotion in the foreseeable future?
Most interviewers are trying to determine if you plan to stay with the company or are likely to leave as soon as you find a better opportunity. They also want to understand your level of ambition.
Think of how your goals would align with the position and company you’re applying for and discuss how you’d like to grow within the company.
Pro Tip: "Do not mention other roles or industries; talk about how you can progress within the company that is interviewing you."
#Hard Question 7 - “Describe a time you dealt with a difficult situation.”
Every corporation has its own difficulties to deal with. However, if this is your first job, you can very well draw conclusions from your academic challenges.
Pro Tip: They do not want to know whether you handled a team of teams and dealt with a difficult situation all by yourself. However, they will want to know whether you have the strength and resilience to deal with any difficult situation alone.
This question tests your problem-solving and stress-handling abilities. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your response.
For example, pick an example from your professional life, describe the difficulty, detail what you did to address it, and emphasize the positive result.
"I had a client that was upset over something that wasn’t communicated correctly. I fixed it immediately and told the client we wouldn’t make mistakes like that going forward. Plus, I offered them certain gifts as compensation. The client was happy with the results. It just takes a little bit of hearing the other side to ensure you retain an angry customer."
#Hard Question 8 - “Can you explain the gap in your employment?”
Most people have a time in their employment history when they weren’t working for one reason or another, whether it be for personal reasons, going back to school or some other endeavor.
Therefore, these tough interview questions about gap years can make almost anyone nervous!
The best way to answer concerns over an employment gap is honestly. However, ensure to mention things you did that will show how and why you were still productive during that time.
Any courses you did, or how you upskilled yourself in this gap year, or work on projects will help strengthen your case.
Pro Tip: Keep it positive. You should be honest, but this is not an opportunity for you to vent about what annoys you at work.
#Hard Question 9 - "What motivates you?"
Your answer should be related to the position you’re applying for, so think about what you’re most excited to do at this job and why—whether it’s reaching a personal goal or being able to help other people, for example—and explain how that relates back to your role at the company.
#Hard Question 9 - “What is your greatest professional achievement?”
This question is a great chance to subtly brag about yourself, but also remember that the interviewer wants strengths relative to the position, not in general.
For example, if you are applying for a management-level position and have managed teams in the past, explain how many people you have managed, the largest team size you have led, and any notable achievements as a manager.
"I led a team who achieved an almost 20% boost in sales in just six months thanks to our new customer engagement strategy."
Pro Tip: Whenever possible - quantify. Numbers always add a layer of credibility. Plus, try to keep your face and tone professional whenever you say such a thing. It shouldn't come out like you are bragging, but at the same time, you should be proud of your achievements and not downplay it."
#Hard Question 10 - "Do you have any questions for us?"
Don’t say “no.” This is your opportunity to demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in the position, so ask a good question — or several. Inquire about things like company culture, team dynamics, or growth opportunities within the organization.
However, save questions about salary and benefits for later in the process. Especially if you have a few interviews to crack, always ask about the salary in the final round.
Do not worry; you can always negotiate, and even if the salary is not up to the mark, you cannot always take that position.
Pro Tip: Come prepared with a list of questions to ask that demonstrates you’ve done your homework.
Here is a list of unique interview questions to ask the employer!
Professional Etiquette Tips for Interviews
Now that you know about the hard interview questions and the answers that are close to the appropriate ones, here are a few more items to remember!
1. Being Punctual is Non-Negotiable
Being punctual should be a non-negotiable when it comes to attending interviews.
Arrive on Time. It may sound simple, but arriving on time for an interview is critical. In fact, 10-15 minutes early is probably the best arrival time. However, not more than that, you wouldn't want to seem too eager or nervous.
2. Your Posture Speaks a Lot
Your non-verbal signals reveal a lot about yourself. Sit with your back straight, make eye contact, and smile with a firm handshake.
Don’t hold your arms or fidget, as the interviewer might take it wrongly as a sign of apprehension or disinterest. Instead, slightly lean forward and nod to show that you are engaged.
3. Listen – Do not Just Jump to Answering
The art of active listening is a must when giving an interview!
Allow the interviewer to complete his/her thoughts and then answer the question.
It helps you to frame your response in a better way and reflects your genuineness in the conversation.
4. Politeness is Given
Being polite also has a long way to go. Start and finish the interview by thanking your interviewer for their time. And send a follow-up thank-you email later too; to remind them how interested you are in this job.
5. Dress code
If you’re unsure what to wear, it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed.
Even if you’re not sure of the company culture, dressing a little more formally will give the impression that you take this opportunity seriously. Plus, who doesn’t look great dressed up? Look at some of the best interview attire for men.
Why a Good Cover Letter Matters as the Final Touch?
A strong cover letter for a resume can be the difference between standing out or blending in with the pile of applications. It’s your chance to showcase why you’re a perfect fit for the role beyond what’s listed in your resume.
A great cover letter adds a personal touch, offering data for your qualifications and highlighting specific achievements that match the company’s needs. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills.
Make it concise, focused, and tailored for each job. This effort shows you’re genuinely invested in the role.
Confidence is Everything!
Mastering hard interview questions and maintaining professional etiquette is essential for landing your dream job.
With the right preparation, you can confidently handle even the toughest questions.
Always remember to follow up after your interview, and don't overlook the importance of your cover letter as the final touch.
These small details will make a big difference in setting you apart from other candidates and getting you closer to that job offer.
Read Also:
From Nervous To Confident: Mastering Interview Questions
Guarantee To Ace EVERY Retail Interview: Top Retail Interview Questions And How To Answer Them
Considering today’s fast-paced world, it is only natural that more and more people are searching for low-stress jobs that might even come without a degree.
You see, not everyone will have the means to pursue a college degree, spend loads of money, and then choose a career in which they will have to hustle until the end. Not everyone is okay with living a life in which they cannot even breathe.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), more and more people are now applying for jobs that come with the least amount of stress but several benefits.
If you are also tired of your day-to-day life, or have been laid of from a high tech company, and want to take up a job that provides you with enough monetary security and low stress, then I have you covered!
So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more…
Why are People Searching for Low-Stress Jobs?
As I already told you, there has been a surge in the search for low-stress jobs worldwide. And you might be thinking, why so? Does it have a lot of benefits?
The answer to that is YES.
People are always on the run to improve the quality of their lives, so they do not want to add excessive stress.
One of the best things low stress can offer is a healthy work-life balance. This balance can allow individuals to spend more time with their families and pursue their hobbies.
Additionally, having a low-stress job comes with several health benefits. For instance, chronic stress can lead to health problems. Having a job that ensures you have the time to relax can also contribute to better mental as well as physical health.
There is yet another reason why more and more people are looking for low-stress jobs. These jobs come with a degree of autonomy, ensuring you have creative freedom and control over the tasks you are supposed to do!
Lastly, these jobs also offer many financial benefits. People automatically flock toward them because they offer stability and security without high-pressure job roles.
Best Low-Stress Jobs Without a Degree in 2024!
Now that you know about the reasons why people are shifting towards low-stress jobs, it is time for you to get to what you have been searching for the list of the best low-stress jobs without a degree!
So, without further ado, let us get straight into it!
1. Courier
Firstly, on the list of low-stress jobs that do not need a degree is that of someone who is in courier services.
They are responsible for transporting packages and paperwork from one location to another. If you plan to become one, you can ride a bike or drive a car to pick up and drop off the stuff.
You may also need to occasionally get the signatures of the people who are at the receiving end of their parcel.
This job does not require a degree, offers a flexible schedule, and is definitely not mentally and physically taxing.
2. Floral Designer
Secondly, The next one on this list is the job of a floral designer. These are the people who are in charge of flower arrangements for events like birthday parties and weddings.
The job of a floral designer does not need a degree. It also offers a flexible work schedule, mainly picking flowers and arranging them to make them look nice. They are also in charge of helping customers choose the flowers.
This is a job that lets you use your creativity at work every single day. Additionally, if you are a woman looking for blue collar jobs but want something easier, this is something you are looking for, you might look at this job!
3. Makeup Artist
Thirdly, being a makeup artist is something that most people are trying to become. Most of us look at it as a low-stress job because of the fact that it comes with a flexible working schedule. Additionally, you get to be creative and try something new on your clients!
You might have seen that several influencers on the internet showcase their creativity. This goes on to prove that you do not even need to have a degree to do this job.
All you need to know is how to do make-up and work with cosmetics, and how to experiment!
4. Travel Agent
Fourthly, being a travel agent is something that you can try if you want to have a low-stress job that pays you well. They are primarily responsible for making the travel arrangements for their clients.
They need to search the greatest deals and book the tickets for traveling, staying, and offer travel guidance.
It's a career that involves assisting others and is frequently done online, which contributes to its low-stress factor.
5. Roofer
In case you did not know, a roofer is someone who is in charge of the professional construction and installation of the roof. They are also responsible for maintaining and repairing the roofs of their clients.
Additionally, they inspect the roofs (in case there are any damages), repair the holes and the broken shingles in the roof, and make it weather resistant.
Considering the fact that the tasks of the roofers are seasonal, it ensures that they have the flexibility to work and choose their projects depending on their
6. Hairstylist
The next one on this list is the job of being a hairstylist. Similar to makeup artists, these people work with individual clients on specific occasions. They interact with the people while working for themselves or at a salon.
While these people do need a license to practice, they do not need an educational degree. All you need to do is enroll in a state-approved program in cosmetology.
So, if this is something that you are interested in, it is best that you get to work, as these are some of the growing industries that have literally zero pressure!
7. Painter
Are you someone who likes to work with colors? If your answer is yes, then it is best that you become a painter. As a professional service provider, you might have to paint the building, the interior, or the surface.
8. Massage Therapist
You probaby did not think that this would be on the list, right? Becoming a massage therapist is frequently regarded as a low-stress job that does not require a degree.
Massage therapists operate in peaceful environments, such as spas, and provide treatments to assist clients relax or ease pain.
While certification may be required, the employment itself is generally tranquil and provides an opportunity to improve the well-being of others, which may be both rewarding and stress-free.
9. Maintenance Technician
If you know how to become an electrician, becoming a maintenance technician will automatically come to you. These people are in charge of keeping a building safe.
For this, they evaluate and repair whatever issues a building might face regarding electrical systems, HVAC appliances, and more.
You may have seen them work at hospitals and other residential facilities. These people work on a client-to-client basis, which ensures that they have the flexibility to choose their work.
10. Security
The next one on this list is the job of a security guard. In most cases, it is considered a low-stress job that doesn't require a degree.
Security guards ensure the safety of people and property. They monitor entrances, check visitors, and sometimes work with law enforcement.
It's a job with a routine and doesn't typically involve high-pressure situations, making it relatively stress-free.
11. Shipping Clerk
Just as the name suggests, the task of a shipping clerk is to manage the shipments that come in and go out of a company.
These jobs are considered to be of low stress that you can have without a degree. They primarily handle paperwork, organize packages, and sometimes track inventory.
It's usually a routine job with regular hours and not much pressure, making it a good option for those seeking a calmer work environment.
12. Cook
As we all know, a cook is a culinary professional that makes meals for customers and guests at various locations.
They frequently prepare for shifts by cutting, slicing, chopping, and peeling items and organizing work areas. They then cook and plate meals based on menus and customer choices.
Cooks are most commonly found in restaurants, but they are also employed by schools, hotels, medical facilities, nursing homes, and other organizations.
13. Upholsterer
An upholsterer uses upholstery, or soft covers, to create and fix furniture. They regularly assist customers in updating outdated furnishings.
In order to alter their appearance and enhance comfort, upholstery professionals can also add springs, padding, and fabric to newly purchased couches, chairs, and stools.
Upholsterers typically obtain their trade through apprenticeships with seasoned industry professionals or through on-the-job training.
14. Welder
Next one on this list is a welder. These are the experts who are responsible for working with metals and fusing them together. For this, they use a welding torch, a specialized instrument that produces extreme heat.
They ensure the integrity of the safety equipment they use to safeguard both themselves and other people, inspect materials before welding, and keep the right amount of heat throughout the process.
One can witness welders at work on a wide range of machinery and structures, including automobiles, ships, buildings, bridges, and pipelines.
15. Housekeeper
Lastly, housekeeping is commonly regarded as a low-stress career that does not require a degree.
Housekeepers clean and maintain areas, keeping them tidy and sanitary. They could work at hotels, hospitals, or private residences.
The job entails basic duties that may be completed at a regular pace, which many people find manageable and stress-free.
Wrapping It Up!
If you are searching for the best low-stress jobs without a degree, I hope that this blog has helped you. If you have any questions related to this, please feel free to let me know. All you need to do is scroll down until you reach the bottom of the page. Then, leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. I will be there to answer them all for you!
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As company culture is changing across US workplaces, potential employees are being more choosy about the things they’re looking for from an employer. Employees needs are different today, and so are the benefits people are looking for. To attract top talent, you’ll want to offer a strong benefits package with benefits employees are actually looking for. Recruiters are working harder to find top talent by helping companies create more attractive benefits offerings.
Benefits Offerings Should Change With the Times
In a recent survey by GlassDoor, approximately 60% of those asked said they strongly consider benefits and perks before accepting a job offer. A full 80% said they would prefer better benefits over a bump in pay and feel valued when employers offer good benefits. Job seekers are looking for a robust benefits package, that includes at least some of these.
Benefits that Employees Actually Look For:
Flexible Work Schedule:
This might mean the ability to work from home or adjust your work schedule on occasion. The goal is for employees to achieve a better work-life balance, especially those with children. Companies like Netflix are leading the industry in employee flexibility, giving workers autonomy to create a schedule that works for them, while still being productive. It may mean that parents of young children come in earlier than their co-workers and leave earlier to pick their kids up. This flexibility also allows for self-care and a sense of independence and helps companies attract and retain top talent.
Good Health Benefits:
Employees are not interested in bare-bones, fall down and break something insurance policies or those with high deductibles. More businesses are listening and offering more benefit-rich insurance, with the option for Flexible Spending Accounts or a wider variety of plans to choose from. Employers can also opt to cover a portion of employee’s coverage as a benefit. Health insurance may be the most expensive perk that you can offer employees, but it is one of the most important.
Better Vacation Time:
Employees want to be able to take time off as needed. Americans are notoriously bad at using vacation days and leave $224 billion dollars in vacation time behind annually. More companies are beginning to adopt open, or unlimited, vacation policies. This can be a win-win for both employers and workers, saving an average of $1,898 per employee annually. Companies save time and money by no longer having to track employee vacation or having to pay out unused vacation days. Employees benefit by taking days as they need them, delivering more flexibility and autonomy. It sends a message to employees that the company trusts them to make their own decisions, so long as their work is not affected.
Other Perks:
Things like paying for parking, offering tuition assistance or a free gym membership also rank high on the list for employees. Small gestures like free snacks go a long way with employees, making them feel valued. If you aren’t working hard to create meaningful personal connections with your employees, you are making a mistake. Showing genuine interest in them, and their families if applicable, goes a long way.
By offering meaningful benefits for your employees, you’ll boost morale, and retain a better workforce.
Read Also:
Is Your Company Offering Enough To Potential Employees?
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