CBRE is a huge company – it’s the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm. If you’re lucky enough to land an interview with them, you will want to be prepared. In this article, we will go over 20 common CBRE interview questions and how to answer them. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prepare for your interview.
Brief About CBRE
CBRE is a commercial real estate service and investment firm that provides a range of services, including property management, capital markets, investment banking, project management, and more. It operates in over 100 countries and employs over 100,000 employees globally. CBRE has been a leader since 1906.
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How to Prepare for the CBRE interview?
I would advise the following steps to prepare for a CBRE interview:
- Research the company.
- Study the job description and requirements.
- Update CV with relevant skills.
- Prepare answers to common interview questions.
- Practice your interview skills.
- Dress appropriately.
- Be on time.
- Show enthusiasm and interest.
- Listen to the interviewer.
- Correct body language.
- Ask relevant questions about the job role and company.
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Common CBRE Interview Questions and Answers
Why do you want to work for CBRE?
When answering this question, show that you understand what CBRE stands for and why the company is a leader in its field. Demonstrate your industry knowledge and highlight any experience that shows how you can contribute to CBRE’s success.
Sample Answer: “CBRE is renowned as a global leader in commercial real estate, and I’d like to be part of the team that helps drive that success. My experience in property management and sales has taught me how to work with clients and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. I believe my skills would be a great asset to CBRE, and I’d love the chance to join this team.”
What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?
CBRE values employees who think outside the box and create creative solutions to complex problems. When answering this question, talk about a difficult problem you had to solve and how you used your skills to find a successful outcome.
Sample Answer: “When I was a leasing agent, I had to manage multiple client portfolios. It was not easy to keep track of, but I developed an Excel spreadsheet that allowed me to access each portfolio quickly and accurately easily. I also created a weekly check-in process where I reviewed all the properties in my portfolios and ensured everything was up to date. With this system in place, I managed multiple portfolios successfully and delivered a high level of service to each client.”
What is your experience with market research?
CBRE requires its employees to stay on top of the latest trends in commercial real estate. Discuss any market research projects you have worked on when answering this question. Describe how your experience has helped you stay informed and understand the needs of clients or potential investments.
Sample Answer: “In my previous role as a financial analyst, I was responsible for conducting market research and analyzing potential investments. I conducted interviews with professionals in the industry to gather insights and researched trends online to conclude certain markets. My employer then used my findings to make informed decisions on investments.”
Will you commit to the company for at least two years?
When answering this question, it’s important, to be honest about your intentions and plans. At the same time, show your enthusiasm for the opportunity at CBRE and your commitment to the role you’re applying for. If you need clarification on committing to a specific period, you can express your willingness to make a long-term commitment if you’re happy in the role. Emphasize your excitement about the opportunity to grow and develop with the company.
Sample Answer: “I am very excited about the opportunity to join CBRE and contribute to its continued success. While I cannot make a specific commitment for a certain number of years, I am fully committed to performing to the best of my abilities and being a valuable team member. If I am happy in the role and the company is happy with my performance, I am open to making a longer-term commitment.”
What is your working style?
Your working style can impact how well you fit into the team and the company culture at CBRE. When answering this question, describe your preferred working method and how it helps you be productive and efficient. Be specific about your working style and give examples of how you have applied it. Emphasize your ability to adapt to different working styles and environments.
Sample Answer: “I prefer to work in a structured and organized manner. I find that breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts and prioritizing them helps me stay on track and meet deadlines. I also enjoy collaborating with others and value open communication, so I try to foster a positive and supportive work environment. At the same time, I am flexible and adaptable, so I can adjust my approach as needed to meet the needs of a specific project or team.”
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Are you good with PPT?
When answering this question, describe your experience and proficiency with PPT. Highlight any relevant projects or presentations you have created and how you used PPT to communicate effectively. Be honest about your experience and proficiency with PPT. If you’re not an expert, describe your willingness to learn and improve.
Sample Answer: “Yes, I am very familiar with PPT and have used it extensively in my previous roles. I have created presentations for various purposes, including sales pitches, training sessions, and client presentations. I am skilled in designing effective slides and using animation and graphics to make my message clear and engaging. If there is a specific aspect of PPT that I need to improve, I am always willing to learn and expand my skills.”
Are you good with Excel?
Like PPT, describe your experience and proficiency with Excel when answering this question. Highlight any relevant projects or analyses you have performed using Excel. Be honest about your experience and proficiency with Excel. If you’re not an expert, describe your willingness to learn and improve.
Sample Answer: “Yes, I am very proficient with Excel and have used it in various ways in my previous roles. I am skilled in creating and manipulating spreadsheets, analyzing data, and creating charts and graphs. I have also used Excel for budgeting and financial analysis. If there is a specific aspect of Excel that I need to improve, I am always willing to learn and expand my skills.”
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Recent development in the industry you are interested in?
To answer this question, it’s important to demonstrate that you are knowledgeable about recent developments in the real estate and building surveying industries. Research the latest trends, technologies, and initiatives in these fields and show that you are up-to-date with the latest advancements. This will show that you have a genuine interest in the industry and the potential to bring fresh ideas and approaches to the role at CBRE.
Sample Answer: “I’m very interested in the recent developments in building automation and smart technology. I’ve been following the advancements in integrating IoT devices and building management systems to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs. I believe that this technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we manage and operate buildings. I’m eager to learn more about it and contribute to its growth in the industry.”
Why do you want to be a building surveyor?
To answer this question, you need to show that you clearly understand building surveying and why you are interested in pursuing this career path. Be specific about your reasons, explain why you are drawn to the role, and what skills, interests, and values align with the role. Also, highlight the aspects of the most appealing role and how your strengths and skills make you a good fit for the job.
Sample Answer: “I’ve always been fascinated by the built environment and how buildings are designed, constructed, and maintained. I’ve always been interested in learning more about building materials, structures, and systems and how they all come together to create safe and functional buildings. I’ve also studied architecture, and I’ve gained valuable experience in construction and building maintenance. I’m eager to apply my knowledge and skills as a building surveyor to help clients make informed decisions about the condition of their properties and to help them identify any potential risks or issues.”
What is more important to the built environment, biodiversity, or climate change?
To answer this question, you must show that you understand the complex relationships between the built and natural environments. Emphasize balancing biodiversity and climate change to create sustainable and resilient communities. Also, show that you comprehensively understand the challenges and opportunities facing the built environment and how these issues intersect with biodiversity and climate change.
Sample Answer: “Both biodiversity and climate change are critical factors that impact the built environment. Maintaining biodiversity is essential for preserving our ecosystem’s health and providing essential ecosystem services such as clean air, water, and soil. On the other hand, climate change is causing significant impacts on the built environment, such as the increased risk of flooding, heat stress, and energy demands. It’s important to consider biodiversity and climate change in our approach to the built environment and to find ways to create sustainable, resilient, and livable communities that balance these competing demands.”
What kind of HVAC skills that you have?
When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your technical knowledge and experience in the HVAC industry. CBRE values individuals who can troubleshoot and repair HVAC systems efficiently. Be specific and describe any certifications, courses, or hands-on experience you have in HVAC.
Sample Answer: “I have experience working with various HVAC systems, including ductless and central air systems. I’m certified in HVAC repair and maintenance and have taken several courses on energy efficiency and sustainable HVAC solutions. In my previous role, I was responsible for maintaining HVAC systems in commercial properties, which included troubleshooting, repairing, and performing routine maintenance. I’m confident in diagnosing and repairing HVAC systems effectively.”
Can you describe how you handle stress and pressure in the workplace?
When answering this question, it’s important to show that you understand the importance of handling stress and pressure in the workplace. Explain how you stay composed in challenging situations and manage competing priorities. Describe any strategies you use to reduce stress and maximize your productivity.
Sample Answer: “I try to maintain a positive attitude and stay focused on the task. I use effective time management techniques to stay organized and prioritize tasks that need to be completed. If I feel overwhelmed, I step back and focus on just one thing at a time. I also practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or stretching exercises to reduce stress and help me stay calm. Lastly, if necessary, I ask for help from my team or colleagues to ensure that tasks are completed on time and with the best results.”
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Can you work effectively with little supervision?
When answering this question, it is important to demonstrate your ability to be a self-starter and take the initiative. Explain how you keep yourself productive and accountable in unstructured environments. Show that you can identify tasks that need to be accomplished and independently execute them with minimal supervision.
Sample Answer: “I am comfortable working independently and in collaboration with a team. When working independently, I break down tasks into manageable steps and prioritize the most important ones first. I use my time effectively and stay organized to ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently. Additionally, I hold myself accountable if something is not done on time and take responsibility for any errors or mistakes.”
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FAQ for CBRE Interview
How many rounds of the interview are there in CBRE?
The number of rounds of interviews at CBRE can vary depending on the position and location. Most companies, including CBRE, conduct several interviews to evaluate candidates’ skills, experience, and fit for the role. The exact number of rounds could range from two to four or more.
The first round of interviews is a screening interview to determine if the candidate is a good fit for the role. The subsequent rounds may involve more in-depth technical interviews, behavioral interviews, case studies, and assessments. The final round of interviews is usually with the hiring manager or a senior executive.
Is it hard to get a job at CBRE?
Like any company, getting a job at CBRE can be competitive, depending on the candidates’ specific roles and qualifications. However, it’s okay to get a job at CBRE as long as you have the required skills and experience and are a good fit for the role. A strong application and a positive interview experience can increase your chances of landing a job at CBRE.
What are CBRE values?
A culture of respect, integrity, service, and excellence shapes our approach to every opportunity. Check more about CBRE.
How long does it take to hear back from CBRE?
On average, you can expect to hear back from CBRE within a week to two weeks after your interview. Time can vary depending on several factors, such as the hiring process, the number of candidates being considered, and the hiring manager’s schedule.