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5 Ways to Make a Big Impact as an Intern

Commercial Equities Group is happy to announce Max Giblin is joining the team as a brokerage intern. A student at Augsburg, Max plays college hockey so he understands about dreaming big and working hard to meet goals. I’ve been so impressed with his approach and work so far.


A smiling man in a suit is inside a spacecraft cockpit with seats and control panels. Background has tubes and machinery.

 

I wouldn’t have gotten where I am today without John Allen and the other mentors I had along the way. Now it’s my turn to give back. How can interns make a big impact in a short amount of time? Here are five ways:

 

1.      Show what they can do. Commercial real estate is a highly specialized sector in the broad real estate industry. We deal with complex transactions which means a broker needs to have an analytic mind, understand technical and legal nuances, and possess strong negotiation skills. Any chance to show strengths and skills while working with the team is the way they can make themselves known.

2.     Have grit and hustle. Brokers need to be resilient, persistent, and committed. Interns should show their ability to get out there and add value. They can’t be afraid to make cold calls and try out new things. Being timid doesn’t work in this business.

3.     Be tenacious in networking. Since the CRE business is built around relationships, brokers need to prioritize networking, be effective communicators, act confidently, and be self-starters. I’ve lost track of how many thousands of connections I’ve made over the years. And yet, I still have people reach out to me years after we met. You never know where your next deal will come from. We’re connectors, so building and participating in a network are key for success.


Three helicopter crew members in helmets focus on maps inside a cockpit. One wears blue with US flag patch another has a “Broker Operations” patch. Blue CEG M logo is in the corner.
Adapted from original image by NASA/Michael DeMocker

4.    Bring creative solutions. Having an intern provides a chance to infuse a fresh perspective in a brokerage, while in turn the brokerage develops the next generation. It’s essential that interns come to the table to add value, which translates to personal growth for the intern but also leaves a positive mark on the brokerage. Forward thinkers and innovative problems solvers stand out. Being a broker is not easy, and it takes a special type of person. Interns should show they can be that person.

5.     Develop good habits early. The routines and behaviors one develops in the beginning could serve them well later on. Commercial real estate deals are a puzzle and practicing critical thinking when you have a safety net is a great way to develop that brokerage muscle. Because we are dealing with high stakes transactions, it’s also important to demonstrate maturity, professionalism, and preparation. Set goals, ask questions, and never stop learning.

 

 

Conclusion

Success in commercial real estate requires a unique blend of technical skill, relentless grit, and a commitment to building lasting relationships. By showing up ready to solve problems and add value from day one, an intern doesn't just grow their own career, they help push the entire brokerage forward. I’m excited to see Max apply his drive to our work and to watch the next generation of brokers begin to make their mark.

 

 


Smiling man in blue plaid suit and white shirt in a modern office with large windows, conveying a professional and cheerful mood.

Jeff Salzbrun is the owner/broker of Commercial Equities Group (CEG). As a veteran-owned real estate brokerage, CEG has been involved in thousands of sale and lease transactions, ranging from single offices to 250,000+ square foot buildings. At CEG, we get your deal done. We know space, and we know the CRE business.

 

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