Wednesday, December 22, 2010

2010 in the Rear View Mirror


As 2010 draws to a close, we hope the new year offers greater opportunities for all our friends in the real estate industry. To that end, we've highlighted some of the more popular posts and industry topics below. Best wishes for a better 2011, from all of us at the Talon Group. Bob Piper, Rodney Hall, Tony Cleveland and Jean Mason.

Loss Share Agreements: the FDIC's strategy to avoid repeating the fire sale days of the RTC period. Bundle distressed bank assets in a portfolio, sale to an investment group with a five year protection period against loss (up to 20% of the portfolio value). Learn more about it or risk not being invited to the dance in 2011/2012.

More things FDIC. The FDIC and its approved subcontractors (RAC's) went on a hiring spree this past year and most likely, will continue the pace through much of 2011. Don't make the mistake of thinking all the jobs are finance and accounting related; there's work to be done in all facets of the industry. This post addresses employment opportunities with the FDIC, while this one focuses on those with FDIC approved subcontractors.

Repositioning Your Business or Career. Developing new products and services could be critical factor for survival in the years ahead. Here's how one builder/developer addressed the situation.

Purpose Driven Networking. Launch an effective networking campaign without becoming a pest to everyone you know by starting here.

The Problem with LinkedIn Recommendations. Heavy on superlatives, light on specifics. Most have the objectivity of your mother. Here's a better way to solicit recommendations from past co-workers or bosses.

The Naked Interview. With a title like that, it's bound to be more fun than a regular interview, right? Strip away all the typical interview questions and try this if you want to really understand a candidate.

Our Favorite Interview Question. Self explanatory... read about it here.

Lesson Learned in the Search Business. Also known as Talon's School of Hard Knocks. Save yourself time and pain by learning what we learned (the hard way) over 25 years.

We Asked You: "How has the industry changed in the last 25 years?" Here's what you had to say.

Best Reads. Two books captured out attention this year. "Different" by Youngme Moon talks about separting your product, service or brand from the competition. This short clip sets the tone. Also, check out "Getting Naked" which makes the pitch for greater authenticity and transparency in business relationships.