Want to stand out as a graduate? Here’s what industrial employers look for

Your first boss doesn’t expect you to arrive knowing every aspect of your job inside out. But certain qualities can make a strong impression.  

We asked leaders from CBRE, Frasers Property, Knight Frank Australia, Realterm, Charter Hall and Vaughan Constructions what they value most in graduates – and what separates a good candidate from an exceptional one.  

Here’s what they had to say.

CBRE: Bring the right mindset

For Helen Waddington, Senior Talent Acquisition Lead at CBRE, attitude matters above almost everything else.

‘We want people who show up with curiosity, take ownership of their work, and genuinely care about our clients’ outcomes.’

In fact, a willingness to learn and grow matters more than a polished CV or interview.

‘Commercial real estate is a business you grow into. We can teach markets, assets and transactions. But we can’t teach someone to be hungry, client-focused or resilient. They have to bring that themselves,’ Helen says.

That means graduates aren’t expected to walk in knowing how to value an industrial asset or navigate a complex deal. What matters more is how you respond when you don’t know something.

‘Ask good questions. Follow up after a meeting if something isn’t clear. Seek feedback – and act on it.’

That mindset becomes even more important in a fast-moving industry where deals fall over, priorities shift and no two days look the same.

‘The people who thrive here are comfortable with ambiguity and back themselves to figure things out,’ Helen adds.

And initiative counts too. So come to meetings prepared, notice what’s missing and offer to fill the gap.

‘The graduates who stand out are the ones who make life easier for the people around them before they’re even asked.’

Frasers Property: Stay curious and take ownership

At Frasers Property, a strong academic foundation is important. But attitude and potential matter more.

‘We seek graduates with a “zero-defect mindset” and a passion for the industry,’ says Kristin Carpenter, Talent Acquisition Lead. ‘A candidate who is adaptable and willing to learn is often more valuable than one with extensive knowledge but a less engaged attitude.’

Frasers doesn’t expect graduates to arrive with a deep understanding of internal processes or the intricacies of corporate finance and deal-making. Its graduate program is designed to build that knowledge through hands-on experience.

But you need to be proactive in your own development – and take ownership when you’re faced with a problem.

As Molly Stoneberg, Organisational Development Manager, puts it:

‘Move beyond what and how – ask why to understand the bigger picture. Contribute fresh perspectives, build strong relationships and show the potential for future leadership.

‘Ultimately, your willingness to learn and adapt will be your greatest asset as you begin your career.’

Knight Frank Australia: Get the basics right

At Knight Frank Australia, making a strong impression starts with getting the fundamentals right.

‘Technical skills can be taught, but enthusiasm and a positive mindset go a long way,’ Sana Khan, Senior Talent Acquisition Adviser, says.

That means being respectful, showing genuine passion for property and taking the opportunity seriously.

‘You don’t need to fully understand facilities management, client relationships or all the technical aspects of the industry straight away. That’s why we offer the KFA Student Program.’

Instead, Knight Frank pays attention to how graduates show up day to day. So ask questions. Seek feedback. Be curious about how the business operates. Be sincere. And be on time.

You also don’t need significant industry experience to show initiative. University projects, volunteering, part-time work, student programs and personal achievements can all demonstrate what you bring.

And the difference between a good graduate and an exceptional one?

‘A good graduate completes tasks. An exceptional graduate looks for ways to improve and takes the time to understand the bigger picture,’ Sana says.

‘They don’t just do the job. They add value.’

Realterm: Show initiative – and know your story

According to Leslie Wilson, VP Human Resources, and Bree Pirkhezranian, Director Human Resources, at Realterm, employers are looking for graduates who show a real commitment to their chosen field.

That can be through extracurricular activities during studies – and during your first working years. Think internships, involvement in university organisations, networking, volunteering and industry events.

‘These experiences show you’re proactive in building practical skills and investing in your own professional growth,’ Leslie says.

And if an internship isn’t available, Leslie suggests looking for other ways to gain exposure – such as job shadowing or arranging informational meetings with people in roles that interest you.

Once you’re in the role, keep looking for opportunities beyond your daily responsibilities.

That could mean volunteering for new projects, attending industry events or connecting with leaders across the business to better understand how your role fits into the broader organisation.

‘These experiences can help broaden your perspective, build your knowledge and develop better professional relationships,’ Bree says.

And when it comes to preparing to enter the industry, Bree has one piece of advice:

‘Know your story – and make sure you’re able to communicate it clearly.’

Understand why you’re passionate about the field, what led you to your degree, and what experiences, skills and qualities you bring to the table.

Then do your homework on the business, and be ready to explain how you could contribute to its success.

Charter Hall: Be ready to adapt

Industrial and logistics move quickly. And Corey Benterman, People and Culture Lead at Charter Hall, says graduates need to be ready to move with it.

‘Customer needs, market conditions, development timelines and operational priorities can change quickly,’ she says.

That’s why adaptability and resilience matter from the start.

‘Adaptability helps graduates respond to those changes, while resilience allows them to keep learning and performing when things don’t go to plan. These qualities become increasingly important as industries evolve and new ways of working emerge.’

And resilience isn’t only about bouncing back when things go wrong. It’s also about continuing to stretch yourself.

‘The graduates who develop fastest are often the ones who actively look for experiences that broaden their understanding and capability,’ Corey adds.

That might mean taking on new opportunities, learning from people across different teams and disciplines, or simply putting your hand up to contribute beyond what’s been asked.

‘They understand how their work connects to a broader outcome, build strong relationships and are willing to step forward when challenges arise.

‘In other words, exceptional graduates don’t just complete tasks – they help move things forward.’

Vaughan Constructions: Do the little things well

For Robert Marks, Senior Construction Manager, and Matt Franich, Construction Manager, at Vaughan Constructions, standing out as a graduate often comes down to the small things.

‘We want someone who will fit in with the business,’ Matt says. ‘Someone who can work well with existing staff and bring a good personality, motivation and attitude.

‘Someone who will do the little things well.’

That means listening, taking notes, acting on feedback – and not making the same mistake twice.

Robert agrees that initiative doesn’t need to be complicated.

‘Be curious, be interested, be reliable. And give your best even in the small tasks,’ he says.

Over time, those habits can help graduates move beyond simply completing what’s in front of them.

‘A good graduate does what is asked. But an exceptional graduate understands why they are doing it. They look ahead, take ownership and start adding value beyond their experience level,’ Robert explains.

Matt describes the best graduates as ‘a sponge’ when learning.

His final advice? ‘You get what you put in. So be a great listener, learn from your peers, and be a great team member.’

Looking for your first opportunity in industrial? Explore current graduate roles and programs on the WIN Students & Graduates page.