ALMOST ALL THE signs show that the property market is up again - users and investors are getting into the market while prices are still reasonable. The total number of transactions is up while negative equity is down. As the leading property agency in town, Midland Realty is very positive about the prosperity of the market and the company after some tough times. It believes the market will continue to rise in the next three years, and expects to open another 100 branches on top of its current 200. 'These three years are crucial,' said human resources manager Shirley Cheung Ka-wai. 'We need to hire more [staff and] open more branches in good locations. Plus, with the further opening up of the China market, we need as many people as we can [get].' The firm will need to hire at least 700 agents for the new branches. It is targeting experienced professionals and, at the same time, is providing opportunities for fresh graduates to train as sales executives and sales staff. The two positions may seem similar but they offer distinct career paths and require different education attainments. Only university graduates will be accepted to train as sales executives, whereas secondary or advanced-level graduates are suitable as sales trainees. 'We groom sales executive trainees to be future front-line leaders,' Ms Cheung said. The next step along the path is to become a shop manager, managing a small team in a branch. The company is seeking high-quality candidates who will be able to take up management position in a short time. 'Promotion opportunities depend greatly on their performance, work attitude and achievements of sales quotas,' Ms Cheung said. Shop managers can be promoted to assistant district managers, district managers and then assistant directors or directors. The China market is also driving expansion. Midland Realty has 900 staff at branches in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Zhongshan, Fuzhou, Hangzhou and Shanghai. 'When the sales executive trainees are ready, we will second them to different regions,' Ms Cheung says. 'Hong Kong-trained staff are preferred for the managerial positions in China for their loyalty, exposure and vision.' Midland has an advantage over its competitors in attracting and retaining talent: its listing status. Over the years it has upheld a strong reputation and put a strong emphasis on corporate governance. The company uses different channels and tactics to attract the right candidates, including Hong Kong's universities and the Labour Department. Comprehensive training and development programmes are also provided. Claiming to be the first property agent to set up a training department in 1991, the company has been dedicated to continuously upgrading its staff. 'We operate a training school for both internal staff and outsiders. One of the courses we provide is the preparatory training course for the licensing exam,' Ms Cheung said. Besides core product knowledge, the company has been offering management and soft-skill training, as well as seminars on diverse topics delivered by people ranging from media gurus and celebrities to university professors. It is not uncommon for top performers to earn $100,000 a month, while an outstanding district director can potentially earn more than $1 million a month. A trainee sales executive will receive a guaranteed $10,000, plus commission, for the first six months. A shop manager can earn up to $40,000 a month. Tips for starting out in the field Prepare for the licensing examination organised by the Hong Kong Estate Agents Authority to obtain a valid licence Stay enthusiastic and positive Be extremely tactful in dealing with clients and co-workers - avoid potential conflicts of interests Always consult your experienced superiors for opinions and guidance