Torsten Thaler | Senior Director | Cushman & Wakefield
Years with company/firm: 5 years
Years in field: 5 years
Years in real estate industry: 8 years
Tell us how and when you began your career in the profession you are in, about your current position and why you choose the field/profession you are in today.
I always knew I wanted to work in real estate or construction. During my high school and college years, I had worked in a small but very successful family business in which we maintained residential, commercial and industrial properties.
I started my professional career at Kushner Companies as an intern. During my internship, I served in multiple capacities that allowed me to see the business from several perspectives. Eventually, I realized that I wanted to work at a commercial real estate brokerage. Through successful networking, I landed an Associate position with Chuck Fern and his team at Cushman & Wakefield.
I enjoy working in the field because it is a very competitive business and there is always an opportunity to become better at your craft. The business and the market is constantly evolving and changing, so no two days are ever the same.
What unique qualities and or personality do you feel makes you most successful in your profession?
When companies are looking to partner with an advisor, they want to work with someone they can relate to. Multiple clients have given me feedback that I am a very down to earth person, an active listener, extremely responsive and can connect with people of all backgrounds. When an existing client, prospects, or member of the real estate brokerage community needs to get a hold of me, they know that I am only a phone call or text away. Negotiating and executing transactions can be stressful. Reducing any stress and uncertainties allows all parties to keep their focus where it needs to be. Approximately 18 months into my role at Cushman & Wakefield, I had experienced some successes individually and as part of the team. I knew I was on the right track but was looking for stronger results. I had previously placed several significant deals in the pipeline, but they had yet to close. It was a very challenging time for all brokerage professionals as business development efforts were a challenge because of the pandemic. On November 16, 2020, the two largest of these deals coincidentally closed on that same day. From this, I learned the value of patience and commitment to effort and results. This lesson has proved invaluable moving forward.
These two transactions fast-tracked my career because it gave me confidence when speaking with clients and prospects. These transactions also validated my credibility within the real estate community.
What outside activities do you enjoy during your free time?
I live a very active lifestyle. Every morning I start my day with a morning workout. On the weekends or in the evening I like to spend time outside. Golfing, fishing and skiing are among my favorite hobbies. I also enjoy trying new bars and restaurants.
What inspiring word of advice would you give to a young executive graduating from college?
Don’t live in fear of “risk”. I had an economics professor who said, “Anyone that has any amount of success in their life has taken calculated risks.” The statement resonated with me, and I embrace it across all aspects of my life. The ability to identify, evaluate and mitigate risk is critical to achieve a successful outcome.
What challenges and or obstacles do you feel you needed to overcome to become as successful as you are today?
Every challenge and obstacle should be viewed as an opportunity for growth. Advancement in the brokerage profession requires a tremendous amount of discipline and dedication. Dealing with rejection when prospecting can be difficult, but the top brokers have the discipline to make their next call and move on regardless of the outcome of their previous call.
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