When Yvette Thompson was presented with her Pearl Awards 2023 trophy, her incredible journey was just starting. As 'Agent of the Year', she was soon jetting off on an all-expenses-paid trip to glitzy Las Vegas for the One21 Experience. From 4-7 March 2024, this global convention offered an extraordinary opportunity for networking, learning, and creating unforgettable memories. And being a part of the winner's circle, Thompson had a front-row seat to what was certainly Century 21's event of the year.
The perfect kickoff
This year's One21 Experience saw affiliates from around the globe flocking to the luxurious Fontainebleau Las Vegas. This hotel, in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, features a casino, world-class dining, spa, and nightlife, and provided the ideal setting for the convention's proceedings.
According to Thompson, the opening was undoubtedly one of her trip's highlights. "It was very special. To be part of 3,500 delegates all belonging to the Century 21 family was awe-inspiring. Century 21 is a worldwide leader in real estate and being a part of this exceptional group, you can really see the might of the brand in action. It was a privilege to rub shoulders with the leaders in our field and learn from them."
Knowledge is power
With an impressive line-up of industry and brand experts, delegates were treated to game-changing insights to improve their careers. Topics included Century 21's commercial marketing and operation innovations, key business updates and enhancements, and mastermind topics that got the crowd fired up.
"These sessions were hosted by professionals so they focussed on simple, fuss-free, implementable points," says Thompson. Her key learnings include:
- Prioritise bringing in listings: Without them, you are nowhere.
- Get over the fear of rejection: It's a normal part of life.
- Have conversations every day: Previous buyers and sellers are great for referrals, so keep in contact with them. Cold calling to look for stock is necessary and the lifeblood of new listings.
- Learn your scripts well: And always have your listing presentation ready. Don't ever just wing it! Consistency makes you confident and it helps to practice and perfect your scripts.
- Do things differently: If you are doing what the majority of agents are doing, you are going to be average. Do the opposite to them.
- Nurture those relationships: This can help you sell houses. You should also focus on making connections with your buyers and their families. Understand what they really need, not just what they tell you they want.
The social side of success
Building one's network is a core part of the One21 Experience, and delegates had plenty of chances throughout the event to grow. From interactive workshops, gatherings to celebrate achievements, to casual lounge meetings over coffee, more than a few partnerships blossomed over the three days. "I met some amazing people. But one of the agents from Los Angeles really stood out. We got together and did an impromptu video interview for social media, which was a lot of fun," says Thompson.
At the end of each busy day, the camaraderie continued to flow at Las Vegas's restaurants, shows, parties, Mohave Desert tours, and a concert held by best-selling rockstars U2 at the Sphere. "It was wonderful getting to know the other estate agents and sharing these once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The last night's celebration at LIV was incredible! Picture a pulsing nightclub filled with Century 21 colleagues from all around the world," says Thompson.
Back into the swing of work
While the event is over and done, Thompson says her triumph at the Pearl Awards and the thrill of the One21 Experience continues to inspire her. "The award is a milestone that has given me a push forward to continually improve and strive to achieve more. It has led to more visibility, especially on social media platforms and subsequent referrals from past clients. The award has certainly added to my professional career credibility.
"As for the conference, I've come back with a fresh perspective on real estate. I've begun making conscious changes to my daily routine by amending my daily actions according to the key points I learned during the conference," she says.
According to Thompson, property practitioners should aspire to attend events like the One21 Experience and make the most of their time. "Go with an open mind and be ready to learn. There's a lot of value you'll discover that can make you a SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.™ professional."