The Leadership Diaries: Matthew Harvey on becoming a top-tier agent, cultivating community connection, and redefining leadership

Matthew Harvey hasn’t just risen to the top in real estate; he’s redefined what it means to be a leader in the sector.

Both highly driven and empathetic, the First National Head of Growth for Australia and New Zealand is powering the network’s ascent, demonstrating an intimate understanding of the labyrinth agencies navigate in their quest for peak performance.

In this episode of The Leadership Diaries on the Elevate podcast, hosted by Samantha McLean, Matthew peels back the layers of his long family history with real estate and his rise within its ranks.

He delves into the alchemy of cultivating a corporate ethos that not only elevates his team but also secures their allegiance, and the keen instinct required to discern the perfect fit for new agencies and team members.

With a sage perspective, Matthew reveals how First National is changing the way real estate agencies grow and evolve, and he takes a deep dive into the profound impact of empathy and insight in steering a team’s course.

He also explores the interwoven relationship between community contribution and business stature, unveils strategies for operational prowess through AI, and poses an uplifting prediction for the real estate sector’s trajectory.

“Once you get to the top of the tower, your job is not finished. Your job has only just started. And I think that’s the issue that a lot of leaders, that when they fail is they think they’ve got to the top and they kick back, put their feet up and all the hard work’s done. It’s the other way around. Once you are a leader, you actually have to work even harder to prove why you should be there and lead the team in a proper manner.” – Matthew Harvey

Sam and Matthew also discuss:

• 5:51 – Tenacity pays off: Discover how hard work doesn’t just pay dividends for you, but also enriches the community you’re passionate about.
• 8:30 – The auctioneer’s calling: Uncover how early passion for the gavel can chart a course to real estate mastery and open a world of opportunities for the enterprising individual.
• 10:55 – Plug into success: Unpack the secrets behind First National’s ‘plug and play’ model and how it’s revolutionising the way agencies scale and succeed.
• 13:57 – Family values, business success: Learn why a family-first culture isn’t just good for morale – it’s a cornerstone for business success.
• 17:15 – After the deal: The best ways to shake off a tough day and reset for success in the competitive real estate arena.
• 18:40 – Priority playbook: Insights on structuring your day to seize opportunities and excel in the fast-paced property market.
• 19:33 – AI in action: Discover how leveraging tools like ChatGPT can transform your efficiency and give you an edge in real estate.
• 20:35 – The interview insight: Learn a simple yet powerful interview tactic that reveals the true essence of potential recruits.
• 22:34 – Onboarding magic: Innovative ways to not just welcome new team members but to make them feel instantly part of the real estate family.
• 24:42 – Lead to succeed: Why stepping up as a leader means working harder and setting the pace for your team’s ascent to the top.
• 22:16 – Empathy equals excellence: How empathy and thoughtful action can elevate your leadership and management style.
• 30:02 – Community at heart: Why a community-focused mindset is your golden ticket to becoming a top-tier agent in today’s competitive market.