Ozarks Profile: Aaron Wilken

Tell us about your company.

I formed Wilken & Associates in December of 1999 with the belief and philosophy that a smaller company could better provide personal service and customized marketing plans in order to better serve our buyers and sellers. I also believe that a crew of agents working as a team can provide superior service in the real estate industry. We now have 15 agents that make up our team and they are doing a great job continuing my philosophy and dream.

What is your job and the most important part of it?

To maintain and monitor the daily operations of our office as well as support my agents and staff in any way possible to help them provide the best service possible to our customer and clients. I also actively continue to sell real estate myself.

What's the toughest part about being a real estate agent?

One of the toughest parts about being a real estate agent is getting started in the business. There is so much to know and learn when you get started that it is a bit overwhelming. I have been developing some good training programs for our new agents and try to be available to our new agents as much as I can to help answer questions and give advice.

What's the key to quality service and how do you do it?

The key to quality service is learning to listen to your clients' needs and being accessible for them at any time to help them throughout the buying or selling process. I am constantly learning more about all aspects of the business so I can be well-rounded and help my clients with anything they may need.

What prepared you for your career?

I think my college education in economics/business helped me. Support from my family and friends have been a big help while preparing and continuing a career in real estate.

What's the best part of your work?

The best part of my work is the constant opportunity to meet new people. I enjoy talking with my clients and getting to know them on a personal level.

How has your business been affected by the economy?

Our business is very much related to the economy. Fortunately, fantastic interest rates have helped us overcome Sept. 11 and stock market uncertainty, making both the owner-occupied and real estate-investment market better than ever.

Tell us about your family.

My family has lived in the southwest Missouri area for many years. They have been tremendously supportive throughout my real estate career. My wife Jennifer is a teacher in Buffalo, and I have two beautiful children, Sara, 4, and Kyler, 2.

If you could choose another career, what would it be?

I have always been intrigued by the banking and finance industry. The banking industry would give me the opportunity to continue to meet new people as well as continue relationship with my past clients.