Boost Business Credibility: Program Success
- Sandra Viricel, a familiar face from teh M6 show "Search house or apartment for sale," is also a successful entrepreneur.
- Viricel began her career as an employee, notably in the optical industry.
- "Even in my early sales positions, I operated with considerable autonomy," Viricel said.
Real Estate Entrepreneur Sandra Viricel Shares Secrets to Success
Sandra Viricel, a familiar face from teh M6 show “Search house or apartment for sale,” is also a successful entrepreneur. long before her television appearances, she overcame her fears to establish her own business.Now, Viricel aims to inspire others with her experiences, detailed in her book, “The Secrets of an Agent – Undertake a Feminine and Succeed in Real Estate,” published this month by Maxima editions. Viricel currently manages two agencies and oversees a team of a dozen employees.
From Employee to Entrepreneur: A Journey of independence
Viricel began her career as an employee, notably in the optical industry. Though, she says a sense of independence has always been a part of her work ethic.
“Even in my early sales positions, I operated with considerable autonomy,” Viricel said. “I managed my own schedule and worked independently within my assigned sector.”
She notes that starting her own agency initially felt like the opposite of independence. “At the beginning, you are entirely dependent on the company,” she said, laughing. “But I felt ready to take the leap. I was only 28, but I had a strong support system and a growing sense of maturity. I also wanted to become a mother before starting my business, which felt like an important step for me.”
Overcoming Challenges: Learning on the Job
viricel identifies starting from scratch as her biggest challenge.
“I had to learn the real estate business while working, directly in the field,” she said.
Viricel emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. ”I am constantly learning because I believe knowledge is essential. In the beginning, it was a struggle. It’s hard to feel legitimate when you don’t know everything. You have hesitations and uncertainties, which can impact your performance. Confidence comes with time and experience.”
Breaking Barriers: Feminizing the Real Estate Industry
In her book, Viricel addresses the need to gain credibility as a woman in a male-dominated field.
“When I started the agency 20 years ago, the commercial world was very masculine. Most real estate agents and notaries where men,” Viricel said. “Fortunately, the profession has become much more feminized. I believe I am part of a generation that has marked milestones for women in the commercial and real estate sectors.”
She also observes that younger generations are more willing to embrace entrepreneurship,particularly with the availability of specific support programs. “It can seem arduous at first, and perseverance is key. It requires self-denial and resilience. But onc you get started, it’s incredibly rewarding.”
The Allure of Real estate: A People-Focused Business
Viricel says she was drawn to the real estate sector for its commercial aspects and its focus on relationships.
“We are involved in people’s lives during key moments,” Viricel said. “That’s what makes the interactions so meaningful. it’s also a versatile profession, encompassing commercial, administrative, legal, and notarial components.It aligns perfectly with the role of an entrepreneur who must manage all aspects of their company.”
Key Factors for Success: Passion and Adaptability
Viricel credits her business development to a love for her work and the ability to adapt.
“You have to love what you do,” Viricel said. “When you are passionate, it shows and creates a positive snowball effect. Finding the right employees is also crucial.”
The Impact of Television Exposure: A Calculated Risk
Viricel acknowledges the risk of public exposure through her television appearances.
“When you step out from behind a brand, your face and name become public,” Viricel said. “Participating in a television show means facing the public without knowing how they will perceive you. The very concept of the program – finding the ideal property for buyers in competition with other agents – is a constant challenge. Before agreeing to participate,I assessed the show’s popularity and decided to take the plunge.”
Beyond Notoriety: Challenges and Opportunities
Viricel says the show presented initial challenges, requiring her to balance her existing work with the demands of filming.
“In the beginning, it was difficult to juggle everything.My team was smaller, and a significant portion of the turnover depended on my time. Ultimately, it proved to be a worthwhile investment. It generated valuable connections and attracted talented individuals who wanted to work with me. In general, the program enhanced the agency’s credibility.”
Illustrating Failure: A Realistic Portrayal
Viricel notes that the show also depicts unsuccessful sales, reflecting the realities of the business.
“We don’t always succeed,” Viricel said. ”Our job is not an exact science. The show accurately portrays that, despite our best efforts, we sometimes fail. It’s part of life, and failures can be a source of motivation. We learn from our mistakes. It reflects the daily life of an entrepreneur, with its ups and downs. It’s critically important to acknowledge thes challenges and avoid self-doubt.”
Viricel hopes her book will inspire others to start their own businesses, particularly women. “If my experience can definitely help women get started, that would be fantastic!”
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Success
Viricel’s five-year vision focuses on maintaining her current success.
“The past three years have shown that nothing is guaranteed and the market can change quickly,” Viricel said. “The most difficult thing is to maintain what we have already built and stay afloat. We must continue to move forward despite the challenges.”
She also hopes to energize her team and perhaps offer new services to clients, provided the conditions are favorable for creating new ventures.
