Real Estate Agent Magazine Phoenix sat down with Pamela Erickson to discuss her career and the obstacles she has overcome to achieve her success.
REAM:What first drew you to the real estate industry?
Erickson: With my interior design background, I have always had an interest in real estate. My dad was in construction and worked at a lumberyard and had connections with builders. My idea was to work with builders and design their model homes. I have always enjoyed meeting new people and helping them.
REAM: Who are your real estate mentors?
Erickson: I was searching for a mentor in the real estate business to help me after I lost my real estate partner. I was lucky and found two, Keith and Deanna Weaver. They grew their business from being a small, local real estate company to now being regional owners of EXIT Realty Arizona. They make EXIT agents feel like family, offer continuous support, expertise and learning classes. Also introduced me to the Brian Buffini, Peak Performance course. I am so grateful I did the course and have learned so much on how to keep my business growing.
REAM: What is your biggest challenge as a real estate agent?
Erickson: One of my biggest challenges has been going forward in real estate after the loss of my real estate partner and fiancé, Tom Huber. We were a great team. I had to learn to stand on my own two feet and push forward. My daily question to myself during that time was, “Can I do this?” With doing my daily affirmations and striving forward and constantly learning, I have realized…”Yes, I can do this!” and have done well!
REAM: What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day job?
Erickson: I love that in real estate it is never the same day twice. Every sale or listing is unique. The people and families that I meet, end up becoming life-long friends who I continue to stay in touch with. I have an outgoing personality and love to make everyone feel at ease. I know that purchasing or selling your home can be the one of the most stressful events of your life and I like to make it a smooth transaction.
REAM: What career goals do you have for the next five years? The next 10?
Erickson: I see myself continuing to build my business base to where it is completely referral base. To be constantly learning as technology changes. In 10 years, I would like to be mentoring, training and sharing my knowledge with new agents on how to truly care for their clients and on building their business. I plan to continue to grow, mentor and help other agents. I love what I do and cannot imagine not doing it.
REAM: Tell us about your first sale.
Erickson: I have to say that I was lucky to have such a perfect client on my first sale. He was a first-time buyer and was eager to listen to me and let me guide him through the transaction. Everything went smooth and he was so grateful to be a homeowner. To this day, I am in contact with him and his family and he sends me referrals. I consider him a friend who I will always have time for.
REAM: What are some of your hobbies outside of the office?
Erickson: Crafts is one of my favorite things to do. I love to create my own pop-by gifts for my clients. It is a great way for me to reconnect with them. I am a football girl and always look forward to it and keeps me connected to my brothers. I enjoy being outdoors and hiking in the fall with friends, traveling, BBQs. Art fairs are a passion of mine and live music on a patio. Arizona is just a great place to do just about anything.
REAM: Is there anything else that you would like to add.
Erickson: I believe my future is bright and I am looking forward to everything life has to offer. I am lucky to do what I love, I love being a real estate agent.