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How to Write The Perfect Commercial Real Estate Job Description
December 13, 2024 Read Time: 6 minWe created this post in response to our clients' requests for help with writing job descriptions for commercial real estate positions, but the guidelines can apply to any type of business. Here you'll find seven steps to crafting the perfect job description so you can attract the best candidates.
This step-by-step guide can be used for advertising open positions for any role in CRE, including:
- Commercial real estate agent, broker or salesperson
- Commercial asset management
- Financial, legal and corporate services
- Commercial operations
- Construction, building and development
- Commercial design, architecture and engineering
- And more...
1. Make the Job Title Pop Craft a Short Job Title & Engaging Role Description
The job title is how candidates find you through job boards. A survey from Indeed suggests that 36% of jobseekers search by job title. Use industry-standard terms that candidates in CRE will recognize and search for, reflecting both the position and level of the role (e.g., Senior Associate — Asset Management, Assistant Property Manager, Analyst — Multifamily Debt and Structured Finance).
The role summary is the first impression candidates get of the job, so make it attention-grabbing. Start with a compelling overview that showcases the impact the role will have on the organization or the industry. Highlight exciting challenges, growth opportunities, and what makes the company culture unique. Keep the language direct, concise, and motivational to entice candidates to continue reading.
Example: As a Senior Leasing Manager, you’ll drive growth and strategy for a portfolio of high-profile retail properties across the West Coast, playing a pivotal role in shaping commercial leasing opportunities.
2. Hook Them With a Power-Packed Company Summary
Provide a brief but compelling overview of your company’s background. Highlight key aspects of your commercial real estate focus, such as the asset classes you manage (e.g., office, retail, multifamily) or notable projects that showcase your company’s impact or accomplishments in the industry.
Example: XYZ Realty specializes in large-scale office and retail developments across the East Coast — including the well-known DMV Circle Office Park. In 2024, we were recognized by Bisnow as A Top Company to Work For.
3. Map Out the Day-to-Day: Responsibilities that Count
Make this section concise and specific — bulleted lists are best. Focus on core responsibilities or focus areas for the role like asset management, lease negotiations, financial modeling, or overseeing capital projects.
In CRE, including measurable tasks, such as managing a portfolio size or working with particular asset types (e.g., Class A office space, industrial properties) or cross-team collaborations (e.g., Retail Acquisitions, Property Managers) can better attract candidates who meet your needs.
Example:
- Manage a portfolio of 1M sq. ft. across mixed-use properties.
- Conduct market analysis to guide investment strategies.
- Collaborate with leasing teams to drive occupancy in commercial spaces.
Don’t forget to mention supervisory responsibilities, location requirements, if the role is hybrid remote/in-office, or has travel expectations.
4. Spell Out Must-Haves and Dream Skills
State the qualifications in a clear hierarchy. This usually begins with education requirements and years of work experience. In CRE, desired qualifications often include certifications like a CPM (Certified Property Manager) or CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member), or even a broker’s license. Specify any required experience levels and skills, such as proficiency with CRE software platforms like Argus, Yardi, etc.
5. List Perks, Benefits & Beyond: What’s In It For Them?
If companies want to attract more and better-qualified candidates, they must include a salary range.
Pay transparency influences applications exponentially. In one staggering study by SHRM, researchers found that 82% of applicants are more likely to consider a job posting when a salary range is included, and 72% say they are more likely to trust companies that publish pay ranges.
- By providing a pay range in your job description, you not only meet regulatory standards in some regions, but you also attract candidates who align with your budget and expectations. This fosters trust and encourages a more qualified pool of applicants.
- Example: This position offers a salary range of $90,000 to $110,000 per year, based on experience and qualifications.
- Showcase your company’s benefits by highlighting attractive pay structures, time off, health coverage, wellness benefits and contribution plans.
- Example: This is a salaried position with the potential for annual bonuses based on individual and company performance. Benefits include health coverage, unlimited vacation, 401K and fitness reimbursement.
- Entice top real estate talent by showcasing the unique opportunities at your company. In CRE, this might mean emphasizing opportunities for career advancement, exposure to high-profile projects, or bonuses tied to the performance of assets.
- Example: Our Senior Leasing Analyst will be exposed to marquee development projects, with the potential for career growth within our expanding real estate portfolio.
6. Roll Out the Welcome Mat and Encourage Them to Apply
Make sure candidates know exactly how to apply and what to expect during the hiring process. Be upfront about the steps involved and the desired application materials.
Example: Please include a cover letter along with your resume. Our team will notify you via email if you're selected for an interview. We typically conduct three rounds of interviews before making our final candidate selection.
Bonus: Hide “Easter Eggs” to Root Out ‘Bots and See if Applicants are Paying Attention
Consider hiding an Easter egg in your application instructions. Some employers do this (1) to test applicants' attention to detail and (2) to weed out unqualified applicants and bots.
Back in the 1980s, a famous rock band buried a requirement in its contracts that banned brown M&Ms from backstage catering areas. Why? Not because they were eccentric; it was their way to make sure that the venues’ managers read every detail of their contracts.
Taking a page from Van Halen’s trick, some clever companies tuck an Easter egg into their job descriptions by requiring applicants to answer a question in their cover letters. This helps to ensure that the applicant is real and not a ‘bot, plus it tells the hiring manager that the applicant pays attention to detail!
Examples: (1) In your cover letter, please answer this question: What is your go-to trade publication, either online or in print? (2) In your cover letter, tell us three words your current or former coworkers would use to describe you. (3) Or, consider a frivolous question, just to see if you’re paying attention: What is your favorite type of apple, and why?
By following these tips and tailoring your job description to the commercial real estate sector, you'll increase your chances of attracting qualified professionals with the desired skills and experience for your role.
Looking for support on crafting a great job post? Our customer service team is available via chat to ensure you put your best foot forward when posting on SelectLeaders.
