This article was originally written by Chandler K. and appeared on LinkedIn.

When I first heard about Zillow Home Loans (ZHL) back in 2023, I was intrigued. So when I was invited to speak on the “Make Your Next Move” virtual career panel, it felt like such a full-circle moment. I remember being on the outside, wondering what role Zillow might have for me — someone with industry experience, but also a healthy amount of skepticism. Being able to share what I’ve discovered on the inside was not only rewarding, but honestly, overdue.

Why I said yes to the panel

Preparing for the session took me right back to where I started, not just at Zillow, but in this industry as a whole. Before I joined, I had preconceived notions about what working in mortgage had to look like. Stressful, numbers-driven, competitive, exhausting. ZHL is none of those things.

And I wanted attendees to hear that from someone who’s lived it.

I hoped they could feel the genuine pride I have in the work we do, and in the culture that makes it possible to enjoy this job. The last five years have been a grind for many loan officers, but somehow, working has felt like a reset button. You get to care about your work again.

What stuck with me

During the event, someone asked whether we were only hiring people who come in with a book of business. I used to live in that world — if you didn’t have a “sphere,” you didn’t have a shot. ZHL is different.

You’re given warm leads, supportive partners and the room to succeed based on your skill, not your Rolodex.

Your opportunity doesn’t depend on your past, it grows with your present.

One of the biggest mindset shifts I’ve had at Zillow is learning to collaborate without fear. I’m not in competition with the person next to me. Before joining ZHL, I was dialing through hundreds of dead-end contacts, hoping one would land. Here, I focus my energy on actually helping people, not fighting to find them. I take a lot of pride in protecting our clients. I advocate like their home depends on it, because, well, it does. That same energy shows up in how we support each other on the team.

What I hope people took away

I know a lot of people are questioning what’s next for them in this industry. Many are burnt out. I’ve been there. What I’ve found at Zillow is the opposite: a team that grows, a company that adapts and leadership that actually listens.

If I could give one piece of advice to someone thinking about joining Zillow Home Loans? Don’t wait to “feel ready.” Come as you are — curious, coachable, committed. With the right support, your momentum will follow.

Learn more about how you can grow your career with Zillow.

The beginning of something better; my onboarding training class group photo. All smiles, and haven’t stopped since.