Integrity at core of all good deals
FIRST JOB – AND WHERE ARE YOU NOW? My first job out of school was in retail sales at Mambo Pacific Fair while studying at university. It was a great stress-free lifestyle dealing with happy holiday-makers and locals alike.
I went on to join the corporate world with UBS, Rabobank and Transfield Services with roles in London and Sydney before returning home to the Gold Coast in 2009.
Now as the prestige sales director for Lucy Cole Prestige Properties, I’m privileged to market some of the finest Gold Coast homes.
BEST BUSINESS ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED?
It’s a quote by Thomas Jefferson; “I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have”.
This resonated with me from a young age, watching my mum Lucy Cole achieve so much with sheer determination, long hours and a desire to succeed.
WHAT YOU WISH YOU KNEW WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED OUT
To maintain a healthy life balance. In the past five years, I’ve made a conscious effort to take time out to disconnect, recharge and enjoy time with family and friends.
YOUR GOLDEN RULE IN BUSINESS?
Maintain integrity at all costs. I’m never about the quick sale but the best outcome for my clients. The sellers who engage me trust that I will deliver the best result in the marketplace for their home. A large percentage of my business is referral-based so it is imperative that I conduct myself professionally at all times.
A LONG LUNCH – A WASTE OF TIME OR ESSENTIAL? EXPLAIN
Relationships are key in business, however, I’m not a long luncher. I strongly believe in regular face-to-face meetings; many of these are out of hours to accommodate my clients’ schedules.
WHO IS ON YOUR BUSINESS MOBILE’S SPEED DIAL?
My vendors are No.1 to ensure they are up to speed and contactable for any inspections, feedback and contract presentations. This is quickly followed by mum Lucy as the boss, my brother and general manager John Cole. Lastly the “A Team” co-ordinated by my assistant Kirstie to make the process as seamless as possible for the seller and buyer alike. These include stylists, brokers, photographers, the list goes on. Finally, the Ducks Nuts for my regular coffee fix.
IF YOU HAD $1 MILLION SPARE, WHAT WOULD YOU BE INVESTING IN?
My expertise is real estate and bricks and mortar has a sense of security.
WHAT SHOULD GOLD COAST PRIMARY STUDENTS BE STUDYING?
While technology is revolutionising the world, I’m a believer in the three Rs: reading, writing and arithmetic.
YOUR BIGGEST FRUSTRATION DOING BUSINESS ON THE GOLD COAST? AND HOW TO FIX IT?
The lack of medium-to-large corporate enterprises based on the Gold Coast. We’re viewed as a tourist destination with industry based around property and tourism. I feel corporate executives would love to base themselves on the Gold Coast, however, the companies and jobs are currently not available so they’re forced to relocate to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.