Written by: Kilar Mariotti
Kilar Mariotti is a student at The Ohio State University studying Business Administration with a focus on Finance. He is interning with Colliers | Columbus on Dan Dunsmoor and Michelle Fude’s brokerage team. Keep reading to get Kilar’s take on how his internship has helped him grow in his career.
Has your internship allowed you to network with other real estate professionals? If so, in what ways?
My internship has provided numerous networking opportunities with real estate professionals within and outside of Colliers. I’ve been able to network in a few different ways, the most effective has been simply asking people to grab a coffee or lunch. This has led to many great conversation about commercial real estate and laid the foundation for several relationships. Another way I have networked is by shadowing my team. Through shadowing I have been able to meet other brokers and professionals outside of Colliers. Cold calling has been my primary task throughout my internship and has allowed me to reach out and talk to business leaders across Columbus.
What has been your favorite project to work on throughout your time at Colliers?
The mock showings my team set up for me has been my favorite project during my internship. These showings have allowed me to practice and fine tune my ability to show a building. Selling the story of the building and helping the prospective tenant visualize themselves in the space are two things I confidentially believe I can do on any showing after the practice, preparation, and constructive criticism during my project.
What has been the biggest learning lesson you will take away from this internship?
The biggest lesson I have taken away from my internship has been emphasizing the importance of being on a team. It is crucial to be on a supportive team, especially as a junior broker because it would be a monumental undertaking to learn everything on your own and “make it” in this industry. I have witnessed and experienced the many benefits of being on a great team.