Simone Dennis // Real Property Specialists

Community and Background

Can you tell us a bit about your journey to the Picton community? How did you end up here and what attracted you to this community?

Our head office is over in Gregory Hills and I wanted to focus on sales in the Wollondilly region. When I heard Worklife was opening in Picton I thought it would be the perfect spot for my workspace.

It provides so much flexibility, comfort and you get to meet a variety of people in all professions.

Its central location is great for hosting business meetings and the facilities are fantastic. It really suits my work lifestyle balance.

Business and Entrepreneurship

Tell us about your work. How and when did you decide to start it, and what motivated you to take the plunge into entrepreneurship or remote work?

I started in real estate 8 years ago after a long career in marketing and advertising. After years of traveling to Sydney from Wollondilly it was time for a change so I could spend more time with my young family.

Real Estate  gave me the option to be my own boss under a brand and work around my children and their busy sporting schedules.

Worklife offices have so many options for people like myself who love working with others but can enjoy my freedom too.

What does work-life balance look like for you? How do you manage the demands of work while ensuring time for family and personal life?

Being able to go into Worklife at varied hours and organise my business meetings around family and sport. I have never looked back.

In your industry, what recent disruptions or transitions have had the most significant impact on your business?

Interest rate rises and cost of living have played a huge part in impacting our business.

Personal Life

Outside of work, what are your hobbies and passions? How do you like to spend your time when you’re not focused on business or family?

I also have a payroll business called Paycat and have our head office in Newcastle,

We focus on the SCHADS award and are the only business that is fully compliant in this sector. I can also run this business through Worklife. 

My three teenage children are heavily involved in representative soccer which is 7 days a week. This is my “ hobby” driving to training, gym sessions and games.

Are there any books or podcasts you’ve found particularly inspiring or informative recently? Any recommendations for the WorkLife community?

I wish I could say I sit and read and listen to podcasts but in any “ down” time while waiting for my children at soccer I find myself working from the phone. As they become more independent, and learn to drive, this will certainly change!

How do you maintain boundaries between work and personal life? Any top tips?

This is a hard one in real estate as when the phone rings we have to answer it especially when you are self employed. In saying that having a space like Worklife I can leave, be “ mum” and go to training and always go back to finish things if I need the quiet space,

I truly believe I have the best of both worlds.

Home and Lifestyle

What is your taste like? Do you have a favourite item of furniture or object in your home? Anything that has special significance or tells a story about you?

I like my children having their own taste, but my home was built around neutral colours so you can add colours of choice. My favourite part of my home is my pool and appreciate the warmer months so the kids and I can enjoy the space on our acre with friends. I would much prefer to be outdoors!

What do you like/appreciate about the design at WorkLife? Any favourite touches or things that make you feel at home when you are at work?

The history of the old building in Picton and how the character and charm has remained. 

The decor and transformation is so warming yet still has the history,

I get so many people say “ wow! You get to work there!” When I tell them that is where my workspace is.

I love the whole space. It’s not like being at work.

If you were to showcase the best of the local lifestyle to visiting friends, where would you take them and why?

Burragorang lookout, Avon Dam, Botanic Gardens, Warragamba Dam, The Mushroom Tunnel, The Thirlmere Steam Museum, Razorback Truck Stop Memorial  of course all the local cafes and boutique stores.

Productivity and Time Management

What’s your go-to productivity hack? How do you stay organised and efficient, especially with multiple responsibilities?

I love lists. It’s so old school but I feel like if I can highlight/ tick them off it’s rewarding. 

Meal planning is a must too with a busy lifestyle with sport and two businesses.

Benefits of WorkLife Membership

Lastly, what’s been the most valuable aspect of being a member at WorkLife for you and your work?

Location, flexibility, the office space in general and the people you meet “ day to day”.

For me – not having to travel to work, be 5 mins from home and enjoy everything it has to offer. 

I would recommend more people try it.

If you’re looking for property advice in the Wollondilly check out Real Property Specialists and Paycat for your payroll needs!