I’m often asked what the most valuable takeaway from my Master in Real Estate at ESCP Business School was. Three years down the road, it’s clear to me that the greatest lesson was understanding the transformative power of networking. Recently, I was honoured to receive the Most Aspiring Talents (MAT) Award, recognizing me as one of the top 30 under 30 emerging talents in real estate. This recognition has given me a unique opportunity not just to reflect on my own journey but to share my experiences with my peers. My hope is that, by sharing the steps I took, I can help others navigate their own paths and leverage the power of networking to shape their future.
The Importance of Starting Early: My Journey with REAS
During my time at ESCP, stepping into the role of President of the student society Real Estate Association (REAS) was a pivotal moment in my personal and professional development. Leading a team of passionate peers not only sharpened my leadership abilities but also opened the door to building meaningful connections with industry professionals, alumni, and fellow students. What initially seemed like small actions—organising events, inviting guest speakers, and engaging in discussions—became the foundation for much larger opportunities.
From REAS to MAT Award: The Power of Networking
After graduating, I knew I wanted to stay connected to the real estate community. That’s why I applied for the MAT Award, which selects the top 30 emerging professionals in the sector each year. More than just an award, it gave me the opportunity to connect with other ambitious professionals who, like me, are driven to make a difference in the industry. More concretely, it gave me access to brainstorming sessions on specific subjects. The one I’m particularly passionate about is the digitalisation of the property industry. All these topics were on the agenda at the Real Estate Arena in Hanover, which I attended as part of the MAT community, reminding me of my first experience at the MIPIM event with my ESCP classmates. It underlines just how key these forums are for staying in touch with the latest trends in the sector.
Small Steps, Big Impact: The Power of Community
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that building a network isn’t just about advancing your own career—it’s about contributing to something larger than yourself. By giving back, whether through mentoring, sharing knowledge, or simply being open to new ideas, you’re helping to strengthen the entire community.
Be Authentic
Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start now. Your network doesn’t have to be large; it just has to be authentic. If there’s one message I hope to leave with the ESCP community, it’s this: building a network doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s a series of small, continuous steps. Don’t underestimate the power of every coffee chat, every email, and every event you attend. Each connection adds up, and together, they create a network that will support you throughout your career.
Short Biography: Maximilian Kelm is a graduate of the Master of Science in Real Estate student from ESCP Business School. Recently, he was recognized by the MAT Award as one of the top 30 under 30 most aspiring talents in the real estate industry. During his time at ESCP, he served as President of the student society REAS ESCP Business School, where he developed his passion for leadership and community-building within the real estate industry.