Self-described jack-of-all-trades Sophia is the last of her siblings to join the family firm. Her formative careers in beauty and entertainment – including a six-year stint working on cruise ships in the Americas – fulfilled a childhood dream to see the world and live a life of adventure and novelty. Now, with her feet planted on terra firma, she’s “herding cats” as she likes to say, keeping the Goodwins ship sailing smoothly.
Q: Anyone with the title office administrator usually runs the place. Seriously, what is it you do?
SG: “It’s a little bit like herding cats. I work alongside everyone – property managers, business development managers, salespeople and other administrators. You’ve got your finger on the pulse of the business, ensuring everything runs smoothly and seamlessly. And, of course, being an administrator, you’re also the frontline. People generally see me before they see anyone else. “No pressure.”
Q: Why did you join the family firm?
SG: “I spent most of my early career doing my own thing, having new experiences, working hard and enjoying my 20s and 30s – I’ve worked on cruise ships, lived overseas, and know my way around the beauty and service-related industries. The company I was working for restructured and Catherine asked me to join the firm. It was a big shift, for my family and my personal growth. And here I am, three years later.”
Q: Cruise ships sound vastly different to real estate, though I imagine there are some similarities. True?
SG: “Certainly, you’re dealing with people from all walks of life. But at the end of the day, everyone just wants to be heard and appreciated. So, greeting someone with a smile, saying hello and asking them how their day was can make all the difference. I’m very much a people person and like to see people do well. I’ve done my job when I help solve problems. There’s always a way to help someone, whatever their lifestyle goal or purpose.”
Q: Now that you’ve been in the business for three years, how has your work philosophy changed?
SG: “Keep things simple. I think people get carried away with the digital world and forget that people are on the end of communication. Technology is great for efficiency and process, but people aren’t digital entities – they’re flesh and blood. I think it’s really important to recognise that – to put a name to a face, to keep things human.” It is my aim to use the best of both worlds to my advantage and in doing so provide top notch customer service covering all aspects.
Sophia is the voice and friendly face of Goodwins. Call 09 373 4400 for quick answers and a steer in the right direction.
