New Sales Manager Appointment: Lisa Connellan

Lisa Connellan adds a dash of enthusiasm and heaps of commitment to her new role as Knight Frank Sales Manager Southern Suburbs.

Where were you born and where did you grow up?

I was born in East London, but grew up on a farm in the Eastern Cape which is still our family home. The farm is about 50km from East London, where I went to boarding school.  

What did you want to be when you were a kid?

An entrepreneur. My parents have always been successful business owners. They encouraged us to follow suit and to be in charge of our own livelihood. 

How did you get into your line of work?

I have a very persuasive aunt who has owned a Harcourt franchise in Midrand for many years. She is one of the most passionate and hard-working property professionals that I know. I spent a bit of time with her in Johannesburg a couple of years ago and decided it would be a good career change.

Describe a day in your life?

Coffee first! I am an early riser (5am) for which I blame years of boarding school and living on a farm. The early mornings are spent running and going to gym before work, it gives my day an element of calmness and focus. My day begins dedicating myself to admin, setting up appointments, and touching base with clients and our sales team. The afternoon is then filled by supporting our agents on all their property dealings. It’s a fast paced industry with a lot of different elements to it, all of which require attention to detail and commitment.

What has been the biggest challenge along the way?

As an estate agent… raising brand awareness and making a name for myself as a young woman in a competitive area.

What did it take to get where you are today?

A lot of hard work, dedication and perseverance.

What do you love about your job?

The interesting people we meet along the way and that no two days are the same. I get an enormous amount of satisfaction helping our agents bring deals together. 

If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?

I would probably still be working in fashion. I was a retail planner before I started at Knight Frank.

Where does SA sit in terms of your industry compared to the rest of the world?

There are hotspots in South Africa like Cape Town and suburbs of Johannesburg where we definitely compete with the rest of the world. These are still popular areas for investment for both Foreign and local buyers, where the development and growth is astounding. South Africa offers a lot of value for money to foreign investors.

What is something people might not know about you?

I am a runner, busy training for my second Comrades Marathon, and also a passionate foodie, cook and baker with a recipe book obsession – which I attribute to my Italian heritage.

Any strong influences/mentors in your life?

I come from a very big family, all strong individuals and many are successful entrepreneurs and business owners, who have all had a huge impact on my life. I joined Knight Frank at quite a young age and have learnt so much from Anne Porter over the years. She is a formidable woman in business and I have a huge amount of respect and admiration for all she has accomplished.        

What are some career highlights?

Selling this beautiful old Sir Herbert Baker home in Upper Kenilworth. It’s always such a privilege to be involved in selling a piece of history from one lovely family to another.

What are you personally proud of?

That I spent the last 5 years working as an estate agent at Knight Frank where we endeavour to go the extra mile for all our clients. I am also proud that I have sought on my own personal career path and journey. Lastly that I have completed the Comrades Marathon.

What is the biggest misconception about your industry?

That selling real estate is a part-time job. To be a successful agent you need to build great working relationships with your clients, deliver excellent service and be available for appointments. This is all encompassing job and would not be beneficial for the agent or the seller if you work part-time.

What philosophy do you live by?

You are responsible for your own journey in life and you have to make it happen. Be kind and helpful along the way. Be aware of your surroundings.

What are you reading?

Blink by Malcolm Gladwell

The hardest lesson I have learnt is…that nothing worth having comes easily; it takes a lot of dedication and perseverance.

If you want to succeed you need to…have GOALS! Figure out the ultimate goal, and then plan the little ones to get you there.

The best advice I ever got…be true to yourself.

I live by the words…stop, breathe, think and take action. Serve graciously and stay humble.