As a real estate agent, your resume is your first impression, your ticket to standing out in a competitive market. In 2024, crafting a compelling resume isn’t just about listing your experience; it’s about telling your story and showcasing your unique skills that resonate with clients.
Key Responsibilities of a Real Estate Agent
As a real estate agent, you play a vital role in the property market. Fulfilling multiple responsibilities requires a diverse skill set, as well as a keen understanding of client needs. Below are essential responsibilities that should be highlighted on your resume:
- Property Sales and Listings: You manage property transactions effectively, showcasing your skills in negotiation and sales strategies. Detail the number of properties you’ve successfully closed during your career. Consider listing your total sales volume in dollars, demonstrating your ability to handle substantial deals.
- Client Relationship Management: Building trust with clients is crucial. You cultivate relationships by maintaining open lines of communication and understanding their needs. Regularly following up with leads can lead to a stronger client base.
- Market Analysis: You analyze current market trends and data, enabling informed recommendations for clients. Conduct thorough research to evaluate property values, which can assist in pricing homes effectively.
- Marketing Properties: You develop strategic marketing plans, utilizing multiple platforms to promote properties. Highlight your experience with online advertising, social media, and hosting open houses. The more innovative your approach, the better your results.
- Negotiation and Closing: You navigate complex negotiations with skill. Your ability to resolve conflicts can lead to successful closing processes. It’s essential to demonstrate how you’ve mediated transactions, ensuring that both parties achieve their desired outcomes.
- Documentation Management: Handling paperwork accurately is a key responsibility. You prepare contracts and ensure compliance with legal regulations. Your attention to detail prevents potential issues during closings.
- Continuous Professional Development: You stay updated on industry trends and changes. Attending workshops or obtaining additional certifications not only enhances your expertise but also makes you a valuable asset in the market.
Elaborating on these responsibilities in your resume will showcase your comprehensive skill set and experience effectively, positioning you as a standout candidate in the competitive real estate industry of 2024.
Important Skills for Real Estate Agent Resumes
A real estate agent’s resume must reflect a well-rounded skill set. In 2024, highlighting both technical and soft skills alongside certifications is essential for showcasing your qualifications.
Technical Skills
Technical skills play a vital role in your effectiveness as a real estate agent, you must demonstrate proficiency in various tools that streamline processes and improve client interactions. Familiarity with Property Management Software allows you to efficiently manage listings and rentals.
Experienced agents use customer relationship management (CRM) systems to track client interactions, ensuring no detail slips through the cracks. Understanding Multiple Listing Service (MLS) systems is crucial, as it enables listing properties accurately and accessing comprehensive property data.
Besides, skill in Virtual Tour Technology enhances presentations, captivating potential buyers and showcasing properties effectively. Each of these skills reflects your commitment to leveraging technology to deliver exceptional service.
Soft Skills
While technical expertise is essential, soft skills underscore your ability to connect with clients and navigate complex transactions. Communication skills enable you to convey information clearly, building trust with clients.
Your negotiation skills become pivotal while finalizing deals, impacting both the client’s experience and outcomes. Empathy plays a critical role as well, as understanding clients’ emotions and motivations helps build stronger relationships.
Think about how your adaptability allows you to respond to market changes or client needs promptly. Each of these skills is integral in creating a positive experience that encourages client referrals and repeat business.
Certifications and Relevant Qualifications
Certifications and qualifications add credibility to your resume. For instance, obtaining a Real Estate License is foundational, confirming your compliance with state regulations. You might consider pursuing specialized certifications, such as the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) designation, which showcase your commitment to professional development.
Formal education, whether a degree in real estate or business, complements these certifications, such qualifications demonstrate your dedication to advancing your career and improving your service to clients. Consider how each certification aligns with your career goals and the needs of your market.
Emphasizing these credentials can set you apart from competitors.
Types Of Resume Templates For Real Estate Agents
Choosing the right resume template is essential for showcasing your qualifications and experience effectively. Here are the primary types of resume templates suitable for real estate agents in 2024.
Chronological Resume Templates
Chronological resume templates are the most popular format among real estate agents. This structure lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, making it easy for hiring managers to see your most recent positions first. Highlighting your professional trajectory grabs attention, particularly in the real estate industry, where experience and a solid track record are crucial.
Each job entry should include specific details: the job title, company name, location, dates of employment, and 3-5 bullet points outlining your responsibilities and achievements.
For example, you might detail the number of properties you’ve sold or the total value of transactions completed, quantifying such achievements not only showcases your effectiveness but also sets you apart from other candidates.
Functional Resume Templates
Functional resume templates shift the focus from your work history to your skills and qualifications. This format is excellent for agents aiming to highlight specialized expertise rather than chronological work experience. Consider using this approach if you’ve recently transitioned careers or have gaps in your employment history.
To create an impactful functional resume, list your relevant skills at the top, followed by your professional accomplishments categorized under those skills.
For instance, under “Negotiation Skills,” you can detail successful deal closures that demonstrate your effectiveness. This structure provides a clearer picture of what you can bring to potential employers.
Combination Resume Templates
Combination resume templates blend elements of both chronological and functional formats. This versatility offers the best of both worlds: a comprehensive view of your skills alongside a well-structured employment timeline. Such a template allows you to highlight your key competencies while also showing your career progression over time.
When using a combination resume, begin with a skills summary that emphasizes your strengths. Then, follow with a chronological section that lists your work history. This layout not only showcases your qualifications but also tells a compelling story of your career development. It effectively cohesively conveys your abilities and experience.
Selecting the right template that aligns with your career goals significantly enhances your chances of making a strong impression in the competitive real estate market. Each format serves a unique purpose, allowing you to tailor your resume effectively to highlight your strengths.
How to Write an Effective Resume Summary for a Real Estate Agent
Crafting an engaging resume summary is vital for capturing attention in the competitive real estate industry. You should focus on showcasing your unique qualities and achievements succinctly.
Tips for Crafting a Compelling Summary
Highlight Key Qualifications: Prioritize essential skills. List your qualifications, including years of experience in sales, specific market knowledge, and any specialized training. Combine these attributes into a cohesive narrative that presents a clear professional identity.
Use Dynamic and Specific Language: Create a lively profile that grabs attention. Instead of saying “I sold homes,” say “I closed over 30 residential sales in 2023.” Be specific about your techniques, emphasizing your client engagement approach and how you streamline property transactions.
Include Recent Achievements: Demonstrate impact with quantifiable results. Mention awards earned or records set in sales. Use a statistic such as “Achieved a 95% client satisfaction rate” to make your contributions more relatable.
- Experienced Sales Professional: “Dynamic real estate agent with over 7 years of experience in residential sales. Successfully managed over 100 property transactions, consistently exceeding sales targets by 15%. Recognized as the top agent in a competitive market in 2023.”
- Customer-Focused Agent: “Client-centric real estate agent skilled in building lasting relationships. Expertise in first-time homebuyer education. Achieved 98% of listings sold within 30 days through targeted marketing and a personalized sales approach.”
- Market Specialist: “Results-driven agent specializing in luxury waterfront properties. Leveraged advanced market analysis tools to identify emerging trends, leading to a 40% increase in sales year-over-year. Passionate about delivering exceptional service while guiding clients through each step of the buying process.”
- Tech-Savvy Innovator: “Tech-driven real estate professional with a strong background in digital marketing and virtual tours. Increased online engagement by 60% using innovative marketing strategies. Dedicated to utilizing technology for enhanced client experiences and successful closing rates.”
Each example highlights different strengths while emphasizing achievements and specific skills. Tailoring your summary to reflect your unique value can provide a significant edge in drawing interest from potential employers.
Work Experience Section for a Real Estate Agent Resume
The Work Experience section is a critical component of your real estate agent resume. It showcases your professional journey and highlights accomplishments that resonate with potential employers. Focus on clarity and quantifiable impacts to create a lasting impression.
How to Highlight Relevant Experience
To effectively present your experience, list your positions in reverse chronological order. Start with your most recent job. Ensure each entry includes your job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. This structure not only provides clarity but also emphasizes your latest roles.
Quantifying achievements sets your resume apart. Instead of vague statements, incorporate specific metrics. For example, mention increases in sales, such as “closed $5 million in sales within six months” or “expanded client base by 40%.” These figures provide concrete evidence of your contributions.
When detailing your responsibilities, focus on those that align with the requirements of the real estate industry. In other words, emphasize relationship building, market analysis, and successful negotiation skills. Each description should present a clear narrative of your professional impact.
- Consistently increased sales: Achieved a 30% growth in sales year-over-year by implementing targeted marketing strategies and leveraging data-driven insights.
- Enhanced client relationships: Developed strong rapport with over 150 clients, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate and numerous referrals, underscoring the importance of effective communication.
- Managed property listings: Coordinated over 50 property listings annually, utilizing innovative marketing techniques to attract potential buyers quickly.
- Negotiated successful deals: Closed transactions with an average value of $800,000, demonstrating keen negotiation skills and market knowledge.
- Conducted market analysis: Analyzed local market trends, providing clients with insightful reports that enabled well-informed choice-making, thereby enhancing service value.
Highlighting Achievements Instead of Responsibilities
Focus on achievements rather than merely listing responsibilities, this will transform your real estate agent resume into a powerful tool that captures attention. This approach not only demonstrates your value but also sets you apart from other candidates.
Why Focusing on Accomplishments is Important
Highlighting achievements offers several advantages.
First, it showcases the impact you’ve made in previous roles, capturing the interest of hiring managers. Instead of employing vague descriptions, illustrating specific accomplishments makes it easier for potential employers to grasp the significance of your contributions. Consider this: quantifying success with metrics adds credibility. You might say, “increased sales by 19%,” instead of simply stating, “managed sales.” This clarity boosts your desirability as a candidate.
Also, achievements effectively demonstrate your skills and competence, they provide tangible evidence that you possess the qualifications necessary for success in today’s competitive real estate market.
Examples of Achievements Relevant to Real Estate Agent
When crafting your resume, focus on specific accomplishments that resonate with your target audience. Here are a few examples:
- Achieved record-high client satisfaction rates, reaching 95% through exceptional service and follow-up.
- Closed transactions totaling over $10 million in sales during a calendar year, showcasing your ability to drive business results.
- Increased social media engagement by 40% through targeted marketing campaigns, enhancing your online presence and client outreach.
- Led a team to complete a high-profile property sale in under 30 days, displaying your leadership and negotiation prowess.
- Successfully navigated complex market conditions by adapting strategies, resulting in a 25% increase in listings sold.
By incorporating quantifiable results and clear descriptions of your accomplishments, you create a compelling narrative that positions you as the ideal candidate in the competitive real estate field. Remember, it’s not just what you did—it’s how well you did it and the impact of your efforts that truly counts.
Education Section for a Real Estate Agent Resume
The education section plays a vital role in a real estate agent’s resume. It highlights your qualifications and commitment to the industry. A well-structured education section sets the stage for potential employers to understand your background and expertise.
Recommended Qualifications
A real estate license ranks as the most crucial requirement for agents. This license not only validates your professional capability but also allows you to operate legally within your state. Include the state where you obtained your license for clarity, as regulations may vary.
Also, relevant degrees can significantly enhance your profile. Degrees in fields such as real estate, business, or finance are exceptionally advantageous. Mention any bachelor’s or master’s degrees you’ve earned, as their relevance can differentiate you from competitors.
How to Present Educational Background Effectively
Organizing your educational background effectively is essential. Start with your highest level of education. List your most recent degree or certification first, followed by older qualifications.
Ensure you include the institution’s name, the degree or certification obtained, and your dates of attendance. This structured approach provides an immediate overview of your academic achievements.
Consider formatting your education section like this:
| Degree/Certification | Institution Name | Dates Attended |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s in Business | University of ABC | August 2015 – May 2019 |
| Real Estate License | State Board of Real Estate | January 2020 – Present |
You could also include important coursework or honors related to real estate, business, or finance. This additional information may serve as evidence of your knowledge and dedication to the profession. By presenting your education clearly, you enhance the likelihood of making a strong impact on potential employers.
Additional Sections for Real Estate Agent Resumes
Including additional sections on your resume can elevate your candidacy in a competitive real estate landscape. These sections provide a broader picture of your qualifications, experiences, and unique offerings.
Certifications
Certifications demonstrate your commitment to professional development and expertise in the real estate field. List relevant certifications, such as your Real Estate License, Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), or Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR).
Ensure each certification includes the institution and date attained. This information not only enhances your credibility but also showcases your dedication. Imagine how a well-documented list can accentuate your resume!
Languages
Language skills can set you apart in the diverse real estate market. If you are fluent in multiple languages, include this information prominently. For instance, being bilingual in English and Spanish can open doors to a broader client base.
Specify your language proficiency levels, as these skills can help better communication with clients from various backgrounds. Highlighting linguistic abilities demonstrates adaptability in understanding client needs and building rapport.
Awards and Honors
Recognition in the form of awards and honors conveys excellence and credibility. Have you received recognition for outstanding sales performance or exemplary customer service? Don’t hesitate to include these accolades on your resume, specify the awarding organization and date received.
This section not only illustrates your accomplishments but also enhances your appeal to potential employers. Showing that you have been recognized helps build trust and showcases your capability.
Relevant Projects
Highlighting relevant projects can further illustrate your hands-on experience in the real estate sector. Have you led successful property marketing campaigns or participated in significant residential developments?
Include brief descriptions of your roles and responsibilities in these projects. Quantifying outcomes, like percentage increases in sales or client satisfaction ratings, strengthens this section. Engaging narratives about your involvement can capture the interest of hiring managers, painting a vivid picture of your contributions to the industry.
Real Estate Agent Resume Sample
Here’s a sample resume for a real estate agent that effectively presents skills, experience, and achievements:
Jane Doe
123 Main Street
City, State, ZIP
(123) 456-7890
jane.doe@email.com
LinkedIn Profile
Resume Summary
Results-driven real estate agent with over 8 years in the industry, specializing in residential properties. Demonstrated ability to negotiate contracts effectively and close transactions swiftly. Dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, which results in a high rate of repeat clients. Proficient in local market analysis, real estate regulations, and current trends.
Work Experience
Senior Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Company, City, State
January 2018 – Present
- Successfully closed over 150 transactions with a total sales volume exceeding $35 million.
- Developed a comprehensive marketing strategy that increased property visibility by 40% and shortened time on market to an average of 22 days.
- Cultivated strong relationships with clients, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate based on client feedback surveys.
Real Estate Agent
Another Real Estate Firm, City, State
June 2015 – December 2017
- Facilitated property sales and rentals with a combined annual sales volume of $20 million.
- Engaged in ongoing professional development, obtaining the Accredited Buyer’s Representative designation.
- Conducted market analysis that guided clients in competitive pricing strategies, leading to a notable 30% increase in competitive bids.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration
University Name, City, State
Graduated: May 2015
Real Estate License
State Licensing Authority
Obtained: July 2015
Certifications
- Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
- Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)
Skills
- Market Analysis
- Negotiation and Closing
- CRM and Property Management Software
- Communication and Relationship Building
- Digital Marketing Strategies
Additional Information
Fluent in Spanish, enabling effective communication with diverse clients. Recognized with the “Top Agent Award” in both 2021 and 2022. A member of the National Association of Realtors, showcasing commitment to ethical practices and continued professional growth.
This sample highlights essential components of a real estate agent’s resume. By focusing on achievements and specific metrics, you present a compelling picture of qualifications that stand out in a competitive job market. Don’t forget to customize your resume for each application, tailoring the content to align with the specific job requirements and company culture.
Tips for Optimizing Your Real Estate Agent Resume for ATS
Adopting effective strategies boosts your chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Here are essential tips to consider.
How to Use Keywords Effectively
Incorporate relevant keywords throughout your resume. Tailor your language based on the job description by including industry-specific terms. Use phrases like “customer relationship management” and “property appraisal,” as these resonate with ATS algorithms.
Focus on skills, qualifications, and experiences that align with the role you seek. For example, if the job emphasizes negotiation skills, explicitly state your successes in that area. This targeted approach helps attract the attention of hiring managers.
Avoiding Common ATS-related Mistakes
Avoid submitting documents in formats that ATS cannot read, such as PDF or images. Always opt for standard formats like .docx or .txt to ensure compatibility. Also, steer clear of excessive graphics or unusual fonts; these may cause parsing issues for the ATS. Plus, keep your resume layout simple. Clutter and intricate designs can confuse the system.
Read each job application carefully to ensure that you address specific requirements. Applying these tips will prevent oversight and enhance your chances of securing an interview.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Real Estate Agent Resume
Creating an effective resume is crucial in the competitive real estate market of 2024. Several common mistakes can diminish your chances of standing out.
Inadequate Contact Information
Ensure your contact information is complete, concise, and organized. Your name, professional title, phone number, email, location, and relevant social media profiles or professional websites must appear clearly. Missing any of these elements can lead to missed opportunities.
Lack of Clear and Concise Summary
Crafting a compelling resume summary is essential. Your summary should impactfully encapsulate your career highlights, relevant experience, and key achievements. Aim for a length of 2-3 sentences, incorporating your role, years of experience, and specific skills. A vague summary fails to engage potential employers—make yours count!
Insufficient Quantification of Achievements
Quantifying your achievements transforms a basic resume into a noteworthy one. Employers appreciate metrics; they convey your effectiveness. Rather than stating that you closed deals, mention a specific figure, such as “closed over 30 deals in 2023.” This level of detail not only highlights your success but also enables your potential value to shine through.
Ignoring Formatting Consistency
Formatting consistency gives your resume a polished appearance. Use the same font, style, and spacing throughout. Inconsistent formats can distract readers and diminish professionalism.
Overloading with Irrelevant Information
Including unnecessary details can dilute your resume’s impact. Focus on relevant experience and skills that align with the job you seek. Avoid cluttering your resume with unrelated work history or outdated skills.
Neglecting to Customize for Each Application
Customizing your resume for each job application demonstrates your commitment and attention to detail. Tailor your summary and key achievements to reflect the specific role requirements. Recruiters notice this effort, revealing your genuine interest in the position.
Failing to Highlight Technical and Soft Skills
Technical skills, such as proficiency in CRM systems and property management software, hold significant weight in real estate. Equally important, but, are soft skills—communication, negotiation, and empathy create well-rounded agents.
Highlight both types of skills to present a comprehensive profile.
Using Passive Voice
While passive voice can be appropriate at times, active voice conveys energy and professionalism more effectively. Rather than saying “Properties were managed,” say “I managed properties.” This simple change emphasizes your direct contributions.
By avoiding these mistakes, you enhance your chances of creating a standout real estate agent resume that captivates employers and showcases your unique qualifications.
Cover Letter Tips for Real Estate Agents
A well-crafted cover letter complements your resume while further showcasing your qualifications. Follow these essential tips to create a compelling letter that captures attention.
How to Write a Cover Letter That Complements Your Resume
- Tailor Your Letter: Customization is key. Address the hiring manager by name and reference the specific role you’re applying for, demonstrating your interest.
- Engage from the Start: Begin with a strong opening that highlights your enthusiasm for the position. Consider mentioning any mutual connections or shared values with the company.
- Showcase Relevant Skills: Incorporate skills aligned with the real estate field, such as negotiation tactics and local market knowledge. Provide specific examples of how you applied these skills in past roles, establishing your suitability for the position.
- Highlight Achievements: Discuss quantifiable achievements that set you apart, like percentages of sales growth or client retention rates. Make these metrics tactile to emphasize your impact.
- Connect Your Experience: Weave your professional journey into your narrative. Mention how your background equips you for the challenges ahead, incorporating key responsibilities from the job description.
- Maintain a Professional Tone: Keep your language formal yet relatable. Avoid industry jargon that might alienate your reader, striving instead for clarity and professionalism.
- Conclude Effectively: End with a call to action, expressing eagerness for an interview. Reinforce your excitement for the opportunity and thank the employer for considering your application.
Cover Letter Example for a Real Estate Agent
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Employer’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Employer’s Name],
I’m excited to apply for the Real Estate Agent position at [Company Name], as advertised on [Where You Found the Job Posting]. With over [X years] of experience in the real estate industry, I possess the skills necessary to excel in this role while making a positive impact on your team.
Throughout my career, I’ve generated sales exceeding [specific amount] and consistently cultivated strong relationships with clients. For instance, at [Previous Company], I successfully negotiated a record number of transactions, leading to a [specific percentage] increase in revenue over just [X years/months]. My proficiency with [specific software or technology] has allowed me to enhance listing exposure and streamline processes, ensuring a seamless experience for clients.
I believe my commitment to continued professional development will greatly benefit [Company Name]. Earning my [specific certifications or licenses], I strive to stay updated with market trends. My ability to adapt and learn quickly ensures I remain an asset in this fast-paced environment.
I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background and skills align with the goals at [Company Name]. Thank you for considering my application. I hope to speak with you soon!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
This tailored approach not only enriches your application but positions you as a motivated candidate ready to contribute to the team.
Key Takeaways
- Writing a Compelling Resume: Your real estate resume should not only list your experience but also tell your unique story, emphasizing skills that resonate with clients and employers.
- Highlight Key Responsibilities: Focus on essential real estate agent responsibilities such as property sales, client relationship management, market analysis, and effective marketing strategies to showcase your expertise.
- Showcase Skills: Emphasize a blend of technical and soft skills—like proficiency in CRM systems and exceptional communication—to illustrate your well-rounded capabilities as an agent.
- Utilize Effective Resume Formats: Choose the right resume template (chronological, functional, or combination) to effectively present your experience and skill set, ensuring it aligns with your career goals.
- Quantify Achievements: Use specific metrics to highlight your accomplishments, such as sales volume or client satisfaction rates, to provide concrete evidence of your performance and impact.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job application by aligning your skills and experiences with the specific job requirements, demonstrating your genuine interest in the role.
Final Thoughts
Crafting a standout real estate agent resume in 2024 is essential for making a lasting impression. Focus on showcasing your unique skills and experiences while telling your personal story. Highlighting achievements with quantifiable metrics can set you apart in a competitive market.
Don’t forget to tailor your resume for each application and optimize it for ATS to increase your chances of getting noticed. A well-structured resume paired with a compelling cover letter will position you as a strong candidate ready to take on new challenges.
Invest the time to refine your resume and watch how it opens doors to exciting opportunities in the real estate industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a real estate agent’s resume important?
A real estate agent’s resume is crucial for making a strong first impression. In a competitive market, it needs to highlight relevant experience, unique skills, and personal stories that appeal to potential clients and employers.
What key skills should be included in a real estate agent’s resume?
A strong resume should include both technical skills (like proficiency with CRM systems and MLS software) and soft skills (such as communication, negotiation, and adaptability) to reflect a well-rounded skill set.
How should work experience be listed on a real estate agent’s resume?
Work experience should be listed in reverse chronological order, emphasizing specific achievements with quantifiable metrics (e.g., sales figures and client satisfaction rates) to showcase professional impact.
What are the different resume formats for real estate agents?
The three primary resume formats are chronological, functional, and combination. Each format serves a unique purpose in tailoring the resume to highlight strengths and align with career goals.
How can I optimize my resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)?
To optimize for ATS, incorporate relevant keywords from job descriptions, avoid formatting errors, and maintain a simple layout. These strategies will enhance the chances of passing through ATS filters.
What common mistakes should be avoided in a real estate agent’s resume?
Common mistakes include inadequate contact information, lack of a clear summary, poor formatting, and neglecting to customize for each application. Avoiding these pitfalls can enhance the overall effectiveness of a resume.
How important is the education section in a real estate agent’s resume?
The education section is vital as it highlights qualifications and commitment. Include your real estate license and any relevant degrees to strengthen your profile for potential employers.
Why should achievements be highlighted over responsibilities?
Focusing on specific achievements, supported by metrics, helps differentiate candidates from others. It demonstrates value and creates a compelling narrative that positions agents as ideal candidates in the industry.
What should be included in a cover letter for a real estate position?
A cover letter should be tailored to the specific role, engage the reader, showcase relevant skills, connect past experiences to the new position, and conclude with a strong call to action to reflect enthusiasm and commitment.
