Emily Flett, Business Development Manager at Worth Clark Realty, is a lover of cats, coffee, and books. She went through quite a career path journey, which led her to Worth Clark Realty. From a successful background in retail to becoming a key player in the Growth Squad, Emily’s story is one of adaptability, passion, and dedication. In this interview, she shares how she transitioned into the real estate industry, what drives her every day, how she helps expand Worth Clark Realty into new markets, and how she supports agents. Get to know Emily and the important role she plays in helping agents succeed.
Can you share a bit about yourself and your background?
Before I started at Worth Clark Realty, I worked primarily in retail and spent several years in a top seller role for a candle and body care retailer. In February of 2020, I moved to St. Louis to be closer to family and accepted a position as a merchandise coordinator. In this role, I managed several departments while working in the cash office, balancing registers and counting the safe.
Exactly one year later, I saw a posting on Indeed for an office support specialist position at Worth Clark HQ. Though I had no professional experience in the real estate industry, I luckily had enough transferable skills for it to be a smooth transition. I worked on the operations side in the office, processing agent commission checks for a time before eventually transitioning over to the Growth Squad as a Recruiting Coordinator, and now Business Development Manager.
If you weren’t in real estate recruiting, what career do you think you’d be in?
I would totally be running a bookstore or a coffee shop. Probably a bookstore with a coffee shop inside of it, with cats. A cat-themed, coffee shop bookstore!
What initially attracted you to Worth Clark Realty?
To be completely honest, I was so excited at the prospect of a 9-to-5 desk job and to get out of the retail space. It was a much-needed change at the time. However, as soon as I sat down for my interview, I knew that this company was special. I saw that the people who worked here truly believed in what they were doing–creating a brokerage that offers the best support and the best technology at the best value for the agent. I can’t believe it’s already been four years since that day!
What has been the biggest driving factor in your career and your biggest inspiration?
Working for a company that truly delivers on its promises. On top of that, also just working with good people. There’s something really motivating about being part of a team that’s supportive, collaborative, and just genuinely great to interact with every day.
What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?
Roll with the punches. If we know one thing, it’s that the real estate world is unpredictable. In a support position like the one I’m in, it’s important to remain flexible and go where you’re needed.
As a Business Development Manager, what does your day-to-day work look like?
It truly changes by the day. I spend a lot of time in our internal systems. Creating and distributing the Worth Clark Weekly, updating our training calendar, posting webinars, updating lead contact profiles for meetings with our team, sending invitations to lead programs for our agents, and more. If I’m not doing those things, I’m calling real estate commissions and hounding associations to send us dues and fee information for potential new markets.
How does Worth Clark Realty approach market expansion, and what role do you play in researching, launching, and growing in a new market?
A lot of times, when we open in a new market, it’s because one of our very own agents has a great connection with an experienced local broker who’s expressed interest in helping us expand. That gives us a great opportunity to get a foot in the door and start growing.
The first thing I do is work on the initial research items. Identifying the main/most popular MLSs and boards in the area and associated costs to join, researching the agent transfer process in the state, and determining whether a physical office space is required.
Once we have the green light, it’s time to get set up–submitting applications, executing office leases, creating onboarding campaigns, and updating internal forms, to name a few. I collaborate with our incredible Agent Services team frequently on new market items, while they also work tirelessly to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. It’s definitely an exciting process!
What makes Worth Clark Realty an attractive option for agents looking to grow their businesses?
I love that we offer the freedom to run YOUR business YOUR way. We won’t ever require you to make everything WCR blue and orange or stick to a certain style of marketing. After all, no one knows your brand better than you do. On top of that, we offer fabulous support, slick technology, and, of course, more money in your pocket with 100% commission.
What advice would you give to agents considering joining Worth Clark Realty?
Consider what’s best for your business. Our Talent Acquisition team will never pressure you to join–that’s just not our style. You can ask any question about fees, compensation plans, or anything else that we offer, and know that you’re getting the full, transparent truth.
Connect with Emily on LinkedIn!
