How do you build a great real estate team? Illinois REALTOR® has some tips in the July 2014 edition. Among our experts’ suggestions:

Hire one person at a time to meet clearly defined goals – This approach allows you to assess progress and decide when you’re ready to add another individual, says Lori Cox, co-author of the NAR Short Sale and Foreclosure Certification (SFR).

When hiring experienced agents, encourage teamwork – To promote the idea of teamwork,consolidate your listings with their listings, then establish goals and standards you both agree are important to good business, says REALTOR® Elizabeth Ballis of Coldwell Banker in downtown Chicago.

Hire new agents on three-month trial periods – Using this strategy can eliminate problems that occur when bad fits are prolonged. You’ll spend less time and energy repairing damaged customer relationships and re-doing work, says REALTOR® Missy Jerfita of the KoenigRubloff Realty Group in Chicago.

Want more? Watch your mailbox for our magazine or check the electronic version now.