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s a broker, setting the right tone can make all the difference in getting both new and experienced agents on the same page. Michael Biryla, team lead at The Mike Biryla Team in New York, learned this firsthand when he joined an established agent's team 10 years ago. Since then, the industry has evolved significantly, with newer agents embracing technology and remote work, while seasoned agents rely on their networks and traditional methods.

    To bridge the gap between these two approaches, brokers must be willing to mix old and new strategies. "You have to aim for the middle ground," says Dawn David, licensed associate real estate broker at Corcoran in New York. "Different methods work for different situations and times." By embracing both styles themselves, brokers can set an example for their agents.

    As Vanessa Pierce, managing broker at Coldwell Banker Realty in Florida, notes, new agents can encourage experienced agents to try new approaches, while more established agents can offer valuable perspective and success stories. "It's good to hear from both sides of the table," she says.

    To foster a collaborative atmosphere, brokers should focus on their agents' strengths rather than weaknesses. Biryla encourages his agents to highlight their attributes and use them to their advantage. For example, one of his agents with a background in television was able to leverage those contacts for business.

    Debunking misconceptions is also key. Newer agents may believe that traditional approaches like in-person meetings, cold calling, and print marketing are outdated or ineffective. However, brokers can explain the value of these methods, such as learning industry nuances and developing discipline through cold calling.

    Ultimately, brokers should strive to create a team-like atmosphere where agents feel comfortable sharing their knowledge and experiences with each other. By doing so, they can set the tone for a collaborative and successful team.