Preparing for your CBRE interview?

Commercial real estate brokers at CBRE typically work on commission, developing client relationships and closing lease or sale transactions. Early career brokers often join established teams as analysts before building their own client base. The income trajectory can be steep: modest early years followed by significant earning potential for successful brokers. CBRE provides research, marketing, and platform resources. The role requires strong networking, market knowledge, and persistence through long sales cycles.

CBRE's facility management division manages corporate real estate portfolios for major companies, handling everything from maintenance and space planning to employee experience. This business provides stable salaried careers versus commission-based brokerage. Roles include facility managers, project managers, sustainability consultants, and workplace strategists. The division is growing as companies outsource real estate operations. It offers a more predictable career path than brokerage with corporate benefits and advancement.

The CBRE interview process typically includes an initial recruiter screen, followed by one or more technical or behavioral rounds, and a final on site or virtual loop. Each stage evaluates different skills depending on the role you applied for.

CBRE interviews typically blend both behavioral and technical elements. Most loops include at least one behavioral round focusing on past experiences and one technical round assessing domain skills. The exact split depends on the role, team, and seniority level.

Many CBRE roles include a technical component, though the format varies. Engineering roles may involve coding challenges or system design, while other positions focus on case studies, portfolio reviews, or domain knowledge assessments relevant to the team.

For CBRE, business casual is generally a safe choice for most roles. Tech and creative roles tend to be more casual, while finance, consulting, and executive positions lean toward business professional. When in doubt, ask your recruiter.

CBRE is known for its distinctive workplace culture that shapes the interview experience. Understanding the company values, mission, and work style before your interview helps you demonstrate cultural alignment, which is a key evaluation criteria alongside technical skills.

CBRE receives a high volume of applications for most openings, making the selection process competitive. Standing out requires a tailored resume, strong interview preparation, and clear articulation of how your skills match the specific role and team needs.

CBRE offers relocation packages for many full time roles, though specifics vary by position and location. It is best to discuss relocation support with your recruiter during the initial screening phase so you can factor it into your decision.