More than a business
Deanna Ezzy initially just wanted to grow something of her own when she set out as a woman in business, but quickly realised that More Than Mortgages was an opportunity to help others grow their own career, and themselves, personally and professionally. Being able to “pay it forward” has helped Deanna enrich her life, the local community, and beyond.
What tactics have you found most effective for building professional relationships?
Give first. Find a handful of people in your industry that you want to establish a relationship with (ideally, who are at a similar place in their career), then call or email them and ask if it’s okay if you refer to them. They will always say yes. Keep referring to them (assuming they do a good job, of course). After three to five referrals to that person, reach out again and ask if they’d like to grab a coffee/beer/lunch. Then let them get to know you as a person. Keep referring to them. When they eventually refer back to you, make sure you do an exceptional job with that client.
What advice do you have for aspiring businesswomen?
Know that the first five years will be hard. You’ll likely need to work long hours and prioritise your business over other things, i.e., sacrificing time with friends/family to get the job done. Year 6+ (for me) allows a bit more flexibility with my hours, and also allows me to do more of what I want to do, as opposed to all the things that I don’t really enjoy.
Get support (coaches, therapists, etc.) early on in your business/career. Yes, they’re expensive, but making this investment in myself has helped a lot.
Have you had any mentors who have been particularly influential?
My very first boss played a huge part in who I am today. He saw the GREAT in me, and constantly told me I’d be a better broker than he ever was. It took me years to catch up to his way of thinking (about myself). My second boss was similar – supportive and recognised my hard work, dedication and long hours I put in. I have seen a counsellor/therapist and a mindset or business coach for the majority of my career. There were some days where I didn’t see the benefit, but looking back, having this support has definitely contributed to where I am today. I don’t think I could have done this alone.
What do you see as the most significant trends in your industry?
This industry is amazing. It can allow you to build a (somewhat) passive income, and you can work remotely. Prior to Covid, in the first seven years or so of my career, I did 70 per cent of my client meetings over the phone and on emails. Now that we are all familiar with Zoom/Teams, this is even more true. A lot of people actually prefer Zoom appointments as it’s more convenient for everyone.
How does your business contribute to your local community?
We organised a charity event, then matched the proceeds raised and donated to Doris Women’s Refuge here in Canberra. We regularly donate to Berry Street, which provides care for children/families at risk. We also regularly donate to Street Smart, which supports grassroots projects that tackle homelessness. Outside of Canberra, we are organising a charity trek up the Himalayas in March/April 2024 and have sponsored three Nepali girls to see them through the next ten years of education.
Get in touch with Deanna Ezzy via [email protected] or call More Than Mortgages on (02) 6188 4555. Visit morethanmortgages.com.au to find out more.
