Linda Benson is career development director for Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Florida Network Realty.
You are career development director for Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Florida Network Realty. What are your primary responsibilities?
As the director of career development, I have the privilege of supporting and guiding over 500 agents across Northeast Florida. My primary responsibility is to ensure our agents are equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to thrive in the real estate industry.
Together with the leadership team, I design and implement comprehensive training programs, curate educational resources and lead coaching sessions tailored to agents at every stage of their career — whether they are just starting out or are seasoned top producers.
Through masterminds, workshops and one-on-one mentoring, we help our agents stay ahead of industry trends, navigate new laws and leverage technology to better serve their clients and grow their businesses.
The goal at BHHS FNR is to foster a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, empowering our agents to reach their full potential and achieve lasting success.
Did you have any kind of special training?
Throughout my career, I’ve naturally gravitated toward roles focused on mentoring, training and education. I have been in management positions since I was 19, spanning industries like hospitality and health care software. Each experience has strengthened my passion for delivering exceptional service and empowering others to perform at their best.
Before joining Florida Network Realty, I served as vice president of client services for a global health care software company, leading product implementations in hospitals worldwide. These diverse opportunities have shaped my commitment to guiding others and creating meaningful learning experiences.
How long have you held this position? Tell me a little about your career leading up to this.
I stepped into my current role in June 2024, but my journey with Florida Network Realty began in 2010 as a Realtor in the Avondale office.
In 2013, I became the managing broker for the Fleming Island office, and in 2019, my responsibilities expanded to include the Mandarin office, as well.
Before joining the company, I spent 15 years in the health care software industry, where I held various leadership positions. I also have a background in hotel management. Each of these roles has provided me with valuable experience and a diverse skill set that I use every day in my current position.
How has the real estate business changed over your career?
Since starting my real estate career in 2010, I have seen incredible changes, especially in how we market ourselves and our listings. Technology has transformed the industry — and it keeps evolving! Today, having a strong online presence and the right tools to create polished, engaging marketing materials is essential for success.
Many people think last year’s changes, following the lawsuit around representation and commissions, completely reshaped the industry. But the truth is, the heart of what we do has not changed. Providing exceptional service to buyers and sellers, upholding professionalism and guiding clients with care and expertise remain at the core of our work. The difference is, we now have even better tools to make the process smoother and more efficient for everyone.
Are there core principles that do not change with the times?
Absolutely! One principle that will always stand the test of time is delivering exceptional service. Buying or selling a home involves many moving parts, and it is so important for Realtors to have the knowledge and skills to guide clients smoothly through the process — from the offer to closing day. That core responsibility has not changed, and it never will.
What do you like best about what you do?
I love watching the agents we bring on thrive in the business. It is incredibly rewarding to see them take the training and skills we provide, apply them and then succeed as Realtors. Their growth and success makes everything we do feel worthwhile.
I also enjoy the sense of collaboration among our agents companywide. It’s amazing to see them consistently supporting one another, and I get to witness this every day in our classes and mastermind sessions. One of my favorite programs I lead is the “Embrace. Evolve. Excel.” coaching program. It is a 12-week course designed for experienced agents that empowers them to be the CEO of their business. We focus on building the right mindset and skill set to provide superior service to clients while also ensuring they take care of themselves and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
How long have you been a Jacksonville resident?
I moved to Jacksonville in September 1981. I was born and raised in Tullahoma, Tennessee, and lived there until I married my wonderful husband of 43 years. We moved to Jacksonville so he could attend the University of Florida in Gainesville. He actually rode his motorcycle to Gainesville for classes every day! We quickly fell in love with the beach, boating and the weather, and once we started our family, we knew Jacksonville was the place for us. It is home, and we’ve never looked back.
What do you like best about living in this area?
Jacksonville has so much to offer, with something for everyone to enjoy, and I’ve come to appreciate the beautiful weather, being outdoors, walking on the beach and spending time on the water. It is a great place to raise a family. Whether it’s enjoying the symphony or visiting a corn maze in the fall with the grandkids, there’s always something fun to do. My favorite thing is probably a beach day with the grandkids!
