I was one who spent far too much time training and learning the contracts before fully jumping in.  Perhaps my legal background created unnecessary fear of making a mistake.  I wanted to know how, what, where, paperwork, procedures before dealing with a client.  By the time I started working with clients I knew what to do and say, etc. 

No deer in the headlight moments.  

The biggest problem to solve Richie Alan Naggar was working with other agents that were clueless. Sadly, that remains true today.  

I'm with Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist on this.  My parents were in the business and I was immersed in it 24/7 from before I got out of Elementary School.  I had direct Broker training when I got started, so it wasn't an issue and I already knew more than most agents did, having spent over 10 years involved in the industry.

Left & did my corporate thing, but still had my hands in the pie.

Got back in and the only issue was the TDS death disclosure was now 3 years instead of 7.  Had to remember that change.  LOL!

A complete 'duh' moment when the buyer asked me who to make out the earnest money check to. Winged it & didn't get it right. Nobody told me the answer to that question with all that training.

Starting a new career at 45, the desire to succeed led me to many classes and seminars to learn the industry. Working for a homebuilder as an assistant director in marketing and advertising helped ease some growing pains. Was lucky to attend a local real estate school where I learned so much more from 'real life' stories told by industry professionals. 

I was very fortunate to have a top notch business man/broker show me the ropes. I already had a business background so I pretty much hit the road running.  I sold the very first open house I had on my very first day in this new business. Of course I had no idea of how to write a contract (really) so I called my broker and he said - write it up and we'll clean it up later!  I wrote it on the lid of my car -  and it closed 45 days later.  Baptism by fire I guess!!

Richie,

When Ron started, I debriefed him every day, I wanted to understand.  He found a fabulous mentor, and by the time I joined him, I knew plenty, and continued to learn more.  A

I can't remember 30 years back! But I do remember having excellent support from my broker so didn't have those deer in the headlights moments overall.

My first broker did not cooperate with us on her own listings. My first sale was a FSBO. I knocked on their door and asked if I presented them an acceptable contract would they pay me a commission since we did not belong to the MLS. They said yes and I wrote contract. Talk about green!

My advice to new agents is to pick a broker who will train you and help you develop a successful business. A 100% of nothing insures failure.

Deer in the headlight's moment:
"What? It's NOT about the shoes!!"
Ephinay:
"Doing pays. Train'n is the illusion of doing."

When I opened my first office, I had no practical experience as an agent or broker. It was definitely a learning experience during the early months.

I joined a brokerage with excellent training. I had a wonderful mentor. I made friends at the brokerage who would provide help when needed. A good environment helps greatly. 

It all sounds normal, for any industry. We live, study, experience and learn.

I remember trying to figure out how to find the right property and location for a my first clients.  Mind Blowing

I had been playing in the game long before I got licensed, yet I also had some great training at KW to fill in any gaps.

With that in mind, it all seemed quite simple though I was surrounded with people who needed a bit of help, which I was happy to provide.