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In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry
Discover how profitability is tied to diversity
In the Black offers a compelling account of T. Dallas Smith’s experience as a young Black man trying to break into the commercial real estate industry in the 1980s. Against the odds, Smith became the first Black broker at the Atlanta outpost of Cushman & Wakefield and then built a successful career at the helm of his own commercial real estate company. Smith’s account is at intervals provocative, humorous, and inspiring. Throughout the twists and turns of his narrative, the central message remains clear: there is much work yet to be done diversifying the faces of the commercial real estate industry. Smith’s business success story poses a direct challenge to the very community in which he’s cut a path to success: it’s well past time to hire, train, and mentor more Black brokers.
This book takes a step in that direction by introducing young Black men and women to a field they may not have previously considered. For Smith, increasing industry exposure is the first in a series of necessary changes that includes sharing knowledge, establishing networks and relationships with contacts and mentors, and, ultimately, moving the industry itself to recognize and reward interest, hard work, and enthusiasm for the field.
In the Black offers a compelling account of T. Dallas Smith’s experience as a young Black man trying to break into the commercial real estate industry in the 1980s. Against the odds, Smith became the first Black broker at the Atlanta outpost of Cushman & Wakefield and then built a successful career at the helm of his own commercial real estate company. Smith’s account is at intervals provocative, humorous, and inspiring. Throughout the twists and turns of his narrative, the central message remains clear: there is much work yet to be done diversifying the faces of the commercial real estate industry. Smith’s business success story poses a direct challenge to the very community in which he’s cut a path to success: it’s well past time to hire, train, and mentor more Black brokers.
This book takes a step in that direction by introducing young Black men and women to a field they may not have previously considered. For Smith, increasing industry exposure is the first in a series of necessary changes that includes sharing knowledge, establishing networks and relationships with contacts and mentors, and, ultimately, moving the industry itself to recognize and reward interest, hard work, and enthusiasm for the field.
- GenresNonfiction
207 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 6, 2023
Charting New Course for the Real Estate Industry.
Commercial real estate is already a tough enterprise in the United States, and it is even tougher for people of color to break into the market. In the Black by T. Dallas Smith explores some of the difficulties people of colored skin—especially blacks face in the industry.
The author takes us on a ride into his experience as a young black man in the industry determined to break up all stereotypes and lay up the foundation for future generations to build on. His journey was never an easy one, but with hard work and determination, he became successful. Today, inclusion should be the target of every business enterprise that wants to grow in this new era and T. Dallas is an example of why every business should think about diversity.
No business can grow by closing up its door to outsiders. Rather, diversity allows the inflow of fresh ideas that can help grow the industry. This is even truer for the real estate industry. T. Dallas Smith points out some of the systematic barriers that prevent people of color, minority communities, and others from fully becoming part of the real estate business.
In the Black is one book you should consider adding to your collection, especially if you are in the commercial real estate business.
Commercial real estate is already a tough enterprise in the United States, and it is even tougher for people of color to break into the market. In the Black by T. Dallas Smith explores some of the difficulties people of colored skin—especially blacks face in the industry.
The author takes us on a ride into his experience as a young black man in the industry determined to break up all stereotypes and lay up the foundation for future generations to build on. His journey was never an easy one, but with hard work and determination, he became successful. Today, inclusion should be the target of every business enterprise that wants to grow in this new era and T. Dallas is an example of why every business should think about diversity.
No business can grow by closing up its door to outsiders. Rather, diversity allows the inflow of fresh ideas that can help grow the industry. This is even truer for the real estate industry. T. Dallas Smith points out some of the systematic barriers that prevent people of color, minority communities, and others from fully becoming part of the real estate business.
In the Black is one book you should consider adding to your collection, especially if you are in the commercial real estate business.
May 26, 2023
This compelling account highlights the success story of T. Dallas Smith, an exceptional man whose determination and talent broke stereotypes and laid the way for future generations. Smith is a young black man who overcame prejudices in the 1980s to become an influential person in the business of commercial real estate.
At a time when inclusion as well as diversity were challenging in this industry, Smith showed that success was determined by passion, hard work, and vision rather than the color of your skin. The book focuses on the difficulties Smith encountered along the way. Furthermore, the author emphasizes the importance of expanding the commercial real estate industry.
T. Dallas Smith's inspiring real estate career is an engrossing and motivating read that immerses us in the life of an extraordinary man and demonstrates how commitment, perseverance, and a desire to overcome obstacles can pave the way to extraordinary achievement. This inspiring story reminds us that, despite ongoing challenges, we are on the path to a more diverse and fair commercial real estate industry, and that every small step forward is a step in the right path.
At a time when inclusion as well as diversity were challenging in this industry, Smith showed that success was determined by passion, hard work, and vision rather than the color of your skin. The book focuses on the difficulties Smith encountered along the way. Furthermore, the author emphasizes the importance of expanding the commercial real estate industry.
T. Dallas Smith's inspiring real estate career is an engrossing and motivating read that immerses us in the life of an extraordinary man and demonstrates how commitment, perseverance, and a desire to overcome obstacles can pave the way to extraordinary achievement. This inspiring story reminds us that, despite ongoing challenges, we are on the path to a more diverse and fair commercial real estate industry, and that every small step forward is a step in the right path.
May 26, 2023
"In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry" written by T. Dallas Smith is a groundbreaking book that challenges and aims to transform the prevailing narrative in the field of commercial real estate. Smith, leveraging his extensive industry expertise, presents a compelling case for greater diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities within the sector. Through personal stories, data-driven insights, and practical advice, Smith sheds light on the systemic barriers that have hindered marginalized communities from fully participating in the industry.
The book serves as a call to action, urging industry professionals to acknowledge the immense value and untapped potential of diverse voices and perspectives. Smith's unwavering passion and dedication to reshaping the commercial real estate landscape are evident throughout, making it an inspiring and thought-provoking read. "In the Black" is an indispensable resource for those interested in advancing equality and driving meaningful change within the commercial real estate industry.
The book serves as a call to action, urging industry professionals to acknowledge the immense value and untapped potential of diverse voices and perspectives. Smith's unwavering passion and dedication to reshaping the commercial real estate landscape are evident throughout, making it an inspiring and thought-provoking read. "In the Black" is an indispensable resource for those interested in advancing equality and driving meaningful change within the commercial real estate industry.
May 23, 2023
T. Dallas Smith, the visionary founder and CEO of T. Dallas Smith & Company, takes center stage in the world of commercial real estate with his exceptional expertise and achievements. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Smith's firm specializes in tenant representation and has spearheaded impressive projects across the nation. With a track record that boasts over seven million square feet of commercial property leasing and acquisitions, as well as significant land purchases totalling five thousand acres, T. Dallas Smith & Company has become a force to be reckoned with. Smith's leadership and innovative mindset have earned him recognition as an influential thought leader in the industry, and his commitment to nurturing diverse talent is commendable. With a remarkable portfolio and a dedication to shaping the commercial real estate landscape, T. Dallas Smith's impact is truly unparalleled.
May 29, 2023
In the Black, by T. Dallas Smith, is a motivating and powerful guide highlighting the challenging yet possible mark black men and women can make in the real estate industry. The author is an expert in his field with years of experience and accomplishments to his name, this book is a way of him to make others' dreams come true with his guidance. The information shared is about his story and the way he made a name for himself and paved the way for others too, where primarily diversity had been rejected. This is an inspiring and insightful read that's one of a kind. The author has evaluated his journey and assembled gems of advices for success in particular for high-dollar commercial real estate deals. I particularly loved the chapter of Mascot, and various aspects of a business make so much sense now. A must-read!
May 24, 2023
As a real estate agent myself, I am always looking for the best advice on the field. T. Dallas Smith is the founder and CEO at T. Dallas Smith & Company, and he has also been recognized as Atlanta’s Most Admired CEO (2017), Atlanta Commercial Board of Realtor’s Realtor of the Year (2018), and Empire Board of Realtists Broker of the Year (2018). With those kinds of credentials, I knew this was going to be a great book.
This book is a true testimony of the adversities that the author had to overcome in an industry lead mostly by white people during the 80s. His perseverance and right mind-set, made him the successful man he is today.
I believe this book is definitely a must-read, as it has inspired me and motivated me to work hard to achieve my goals. I truly recommend reading it!
This book is a true testimony of the adversities that the author had to overcome in an industry lead mostly by white people during the 80s. His perseverance and right mind-set, made him the successful man he is today.
I believe this book is definitely a must-read, as it has inspired me and motivated me to work hard to achieve my goals. I truly recommend reading it!
May 25, 2023
Insightful
In The Black is a really interesting recounting of what it's like to be a successful Black man in the world of commercial real estate. The author tells his story in a conversational, honest, and easy to read style. He recalls the struggles of growing up Black, including his family life and his school life experiences, and how he started his career and work life. Like pretty much every book I've read by a successful business person, this author is overflowing with confidence and the book is brimming with all his successes. But he also has some stories of humbleness and acknowledging that he has room to learn from teachers. Interesting book for people interested in business and the Black perspective of it.
In The Black is a really interesting recounting of what it's like to be a successful Black man in the world of commercial real estate. The author tells his story in a conversational, honest, and easy to read style. He recalls the struggles of growing up Black, including his family life and his school life experiences, and how he started his career and work life. Like pretty much every book I've read by a successful business person, this author is overflowing with confidence and the book is brimming with all his successes. But he also has some stories of humbleness and acknowledging that he has room to learn from teachers. Interesting book for people interested in business and the Black perspective of it.
May 25, 2023
Within the helpful and instructive pages of “In the Black” by T. Dallas Smith, we learn to rethink our concepts of what it takes to be successful in the real estate industry. This book is truly inspiring, as the author is a black African American who has become very prosperous and efficient in the field of real estate. He takes us on the journey he went through to become the first black broker in the Cushman and Wakefield business.
I found the author’s honesty very touching. Being of dark skin caused many people to ostracize him. But he ploughed onward, determined to become a success and now he is the head of his own lucrative company and employs many other black people. This short and candid account is a testament to his commitment and is an uplifting must-read.
I found the author’s honesty very touching. Being of dark skin caused many people to ostracize him. But he ploughed onward, determined to become a success and now he is the head of his own lucrative company and employs many other black people. This short and candid account is a testament to his commitment and is an uplifting must-read.
May 26, 2023
The influential book "In the Black" by T. Dallas Smith highlights the importance of sincere and open connections for success in the high-end commercial real estate sector. Personal tales that highlight the importance of identifying advocates in one's professional journey complement Smith's counsel to build relationships well before one needs them. Smith's acknowledgement of the people, both anticipated and unanticipated, who contributed to his rise in a field noted for its lack of diversity is what makes his story so intriguing.
Indeed, T. Dallas Smith is a well-known name in the commercial real estate sector. He established and expanded the company's footprint in the tenant representation industry as the founder and CEO of T. Dallas Smith & Company.
Indeed, T. Dallas Smith is a well-known name in the commercial real estate sector. He established and expanded the company's footprint in the tenant representation industry as the founder and CEO of T. Dallas Smith & Company.
June 1, 2023
In the Black by T. Dallas Smith teaches everyone that success, especially in real estate, is achievable no matter what race you have. The book highlights the experiences of the author himself, how he was able to conquer his goals and made it possible to be where he is right now. I have been doing researches about real estate for quite a while now and I found this book a great resource for useful information. I can see that the author's life experiences are relatable, He is very knowledgeable in this field and his methods are very applicable these days. I used to think that engaging in real estate is very overwhelming and especially challenging for beginners who are still at the early phase of learning, but this book was a great motivation as a start.
May 26, 2023
the book to learn how to be humble.
It is the perfect guide based on real life on how to be humble in commercial real estate.
"In the Black" is a common phrase used to describe a financial state of profitability or being in a positive financial position, this explains mostly the life of the author which is a total inspiration and influence to many people.
The book is dedicated to all the people who have ever thought they were not enough, or they couldn’t do it, from a person that thought the same at some point but overcame all the situations and finally explains his history about how he got into the commercial real estate.
This book is definitely a must read because the author shares with us his story; with honesty he shows you the truth; the good, the bad and the ugly part of his path and makes the reading incredible and super fast. I love this book from the beginning to the very end.
It is the perfect guide based on real life on how to be humble in commercial real estate.
"In the Black" is a common phrase used to describe a financial state of profitability or being in a positive financial position, this explains mostly the life of the author which is a total inspiration and influence to many people.
The book is dedicated to all the people who have ever thought they were not enough, or they couldn’t do it, from a person that thought the same at some point but overcame all the situations and finally explains his history about how he got into the commercial real estate.
This book is definitely a must read because the author shares with us his story; with honesty he shows you the truth; the good, the bad and the ugly part of his path and makes the reading incredible and super fast. I love this book from the beginning to the very end.
May 24, 2023
In the Black is a book destined for people who work in real estate, or want to get into this line of work. The name of the book is definitely related to the success of the company, and in honor of the workers of the firm; one of the first African American companies to operate in real estate.
This book, written by T. Dallas Smith, is autobiographical. He shares with the reader his path to success, his inspiration, and his education that lead him to build a company from the ground up.
Overall, a very interesting story; it definitely gave me a lot to think about, especially regarding business mindset.
This book, written by T. Dallas Smith, is autobiographical. He shares with the reader his path to success, his inspiration, and his education that lead him to build a company from the ground up.
Overall, a very interesting story; it definitely gave me a lot to think about, especially regarding business mindset.
May 26, 2023
In this book called ''In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry'', people can enjoy author T. Dallas Smith's lifelong work experiences during his lifetime with commercial real estate. The stories that the author shares are impressive and full of resilience. The purpose of this book is to inspire you to work and persist. Even though the book seems to be for people who work in the real estate, I must say that it is for everyone who is looking for inspiration and good stories. The author has a good sense of humor and that makes it an enjoyable read. I really liked this book.
May 27, 2023
A good read!
T. Dallas Smith is a successful real estate agent and the author of In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry. He is not only the founder and CEO at T. Dallas Smith & Company, a commercial real estate firm, but he also has a great experience and numerous titles that recognize his talent.
In this book, I found a lot of advice and tools to develop a good job as a real estate agent and other tips that apply to the business world in general. However, I also found a great personal story of perseverance and struggle against the adversities that arise. This point was very moving and motivating.
T. Dallas Smith is a successful real estate agent and the author of In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry. He is not only the founder and CEO at T. Dallas Smith & Company, a commercial real estate firm, but he also has a great experience and numerous titles that recognize his talent.
In this book, I found a lot of advice and tools to develop a good job as a real estate agent and other tips that apply to the business world in general. However, I also found a great personal story of perseverance and struggle against the adversities that arise. This point was very moving and motivating.
May 27, 2023
In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry is a great choice for acquainted or experienced salesmen in the commercial real estate industry.
In this book, you learn from real-life experiences how to be a great salesman: how to manage relationships with people and customers, how to give a proper, tentative offer, etc.
This book may serve as a source of inspiration like many other reads, of how a black man succeeded with his enterprise in an all-white industry. It is an inspirational, compelling read, that shows the ups and downs of accomplishing your dreams.
I enjoyed this book; it was informational, fun, and easy to read. Highly recommend it!
In this book, you learn from real-life experiences how to be a great salesman: how to manage relationships with people and customers, how to give a proper, tentative offer, etc.
This book may serve as a source of inspiration like many other reads, of how a black man succeeded with his enterprise in an all-white industry. It is an inspirational, compelling read, that shows the ups and downs of accomplishing your dreams.
I enjoyed this book; it was informational, fun, and easy to read. Highly recommend it!
March 15, 2023
In the black
T. Dallas Smith
The personal struggle of a black MSN working to fulfill his dreams. How he created a plan, found mentors to help him achieve his goals. One of the first black men in business reality he found ways to achieve and uplift his people in the beginning of the 80s.
Inspirational, fluid writing that shows a personal narrative and influence on younger generations.
T. Dallas Smith
The personal struggle of a black MSN working to fulfill his dreams. How he created a plan, found mentors to help him achieve his goals. One of the first black men in business reality he found ways to achieve and uplift his people in the beginning of the 80s.
Inspirational, fluid writing that shows a personal narrative and influence on younger generations.
May 24, 2023
This is an inspirational book with interesting facts about the author and his ability to achieve success. Even more powerful is his commitment to help others achieve success by teaching them the imporant lessons he learned. Highly recommend this book.
June 27, 2023
This book is so informative and inspirational. Such a relatable read. I'm not interested in exploring commercial real estate after reading this book.
August 29, 2023
I'm not into real estate, but I still found the book to be inspirational and interesting. I think it would have been better if it had been more linear instead of jumping back in time frequently.
May 23, 2023
Goodreads giveaway win
Good stories, fun and informative to read.
Good stories, fun and informative to read.
August 13, 2023
In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry
by T. Dallas Smith
Published April 4th 2023
I loved the narration and how it allowed me to enjoy a book that is totally our of my genre. It would be great if there was a YA edition for those wanting to experience this world. I would love for the young folks within the BIPOC community can see this as a potential career goal. Great informative read.
#IntheBlack #NetGalley
With In the Black, T. Dallas Smith identifies the centrality of honest and open relationships to success within the world of high-dollar commercial real estate deals. His advice to "build relationships before you need them" is complemented by personal stories highlighting the importance of identifying one's advocates. Smith is keen to recognize the people — some of them sense-making and some of them unexpected — who helped lift him up in a field the primary practice of which has been to reject diversity among its practitioners. Smith shows how making one's way in an industry that has historically rejected Black men and women may be challenging but is in no way impossible. His own story is proof that one can both be a trailblazer and use one's hard-won position to open doors for others.
by T. Dallas Smith
Published April 4th 2023
I loved the narration and how it allowed me to enjoy a book that is totally our of my genre. It would be great if there was a YA edition for those wanting to experience this world. I would love for the young folks within the BIPOC community can see this as a potential career goal. Great informative read.
#IntheBlack #NetGalley
With In the Black, T. Dallas Smith identifies the centrality of honest and open relationships to success within the world of high-dollar commercial real estate deals. His advice to "build relationships before you need them" is complemented by personal stories highlighting the importance of identifying one's advocates. Smith is keen to recognize the people — some of them sense-making and some of them unexpected — who helped lift him up in a field the primary practice of which has been to reject diversity among its practitioners. Smith shows how making one's way in an industry that has historically rejected Black men and women may be challenging but is in no way impossible. His own story is proof that one can both be a trailblazer and use one's hard-won position to open doors for others.
August 2, 2023
The book was informational and provided a look into the life of Mr. Smith.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews