BY KATE SANTO
Communication skills, the art of networking and attention to detail are the primary components of a relocation coordinator’s job. The ultimate objective of my position is to provide a seamless transition in moving an individual or a family from point A to point B. My career in real estate began in 2004 as a sales agent, crossing over to the arena of relocation two years later. During these past few years, my background as a sales agent has proven to be a solid foundation for my work in the relocation field. As Rubloff’s relocation coordinator, it is imperative that I be a team player. On a daily basis, my job interfaces with buyers, sellers, brokers, agents and corporate counselors. A relocation coordinator must be a people person who can effectively communicate with all parties involved on a given transaction. My experience as a sales agent has afforded me an edge in knowing how to work with both the buyer and the seller. In initiating a new file, one must first assess the client’s needs. Here is where honed listening skills really come into play. Furnishing the client with a consummate overview of the new location is another part of the relocation coordinator’s job, whether it is imparting information about the market, economics, neighborhoods, median prices, schools or lifestyle. In order to perform this task competently and confidently, the relocation coordinator must do his/her homework. This creates an ever-present challenge of keeping abreast of the current market statistics. Once armed with the client’s criteria, an agent is assigned who will best serve the client’s needs as an expert in the neighborhoods that they are seeking. As the trust between the agent and client is established, another facet of the relocation coordinator’s role emerges as an advocate. Working for both sides, an agent must act as a middleman to encourage productive dialogue between the agent and client, making certain that no leaf has been left unturned and that all parties are informed within a proper timeframe and understand the ramifications of the deal. Another aspect of the relocation coordinator’s job is to effectively communicate with those involved in a corporate move. Approximately 33 percent of Rubloff’s relocating clients are being moved through their employer, and, accordingly, they have relocation benefits. This is where a whole new level of accountability enters. The cast expands to include not only the agent and his/her department, but also the agent’s employer and the corporation. As a relocation coordinator, it now becomes your duty to make sure that the employer is informed and constantly updated regarding all details of the transfer. Keeping the employer aware prevents negative surprises from occurring or slowing things down, or, worse yet, losing business. Reputation is the name of the game, and it is the birthplace of referrals. As a player in the global marketplace, it is essential to form solid relationships with your counterparts on the national and international stage. In doing so, it is important to keep current with trends, know your competition and stay on top of the game. It is by adhering to these standards that a Relocation Department can pride itself on great customer service and repeat business. Kate Santo , RCC, QSC, WRS is a Relocation Coordinator for Rubloff. Born and raised in Chicago, Santo began her real estate career in 2004. For more information or to contact Santo, visit rubloff.com/our_agents/info/Kate_Santo. Copyright 2009 Agent Publishing LLC