What Message Are You Sending?

First, Second, and Every Impression

By Six Figure Real Estate Coach Roberta Ross

Every day you have an opportunity to make not just a good impression but a great one.  From your attitude to your branding, your business acumen to your intention – every interaction you have with others affects your reputation and the integrity level you show to the world.  At this time of year, many entrepreneurs are already looking at their business planning to design the path to help them reach and even exceed their goals in the coming year.  Be sure to take the time to examine what message you are sending in all that you do.

Here are some questions to ask yourself and things to keep on your radar:

1. Business relationships. Are you known as someone easy to work with?  A competitor – but one who is respectful, professional, and fair?  Do you treat referrals (and the people doing the referring) like VIPs?  Are all of your transactions honest and above board? Developing and nurturing strong, respectful relationships with your fellow agents and entrepreneurs will mean the difference between continued referrals, respect amongst peers, and a solid reputation in your market.
2. Customer/Client relationships. Are you staying in touch with your sphere of influence in some way every month?  When was the last time you reached out to your past customers either by phone or in person?  Do you have a solid database that includes all your past and current customers and when was the last time you updated it?  Staying top of mind with the folks that already have liked and trusted you enough to do business with you is one of the best things you can do to earn repeat business and referrals.  Instead of always chasing NEW customers – consider taking excellent care of the ones you already have.
3. Manners matter. In a world where everyone seems to be staring at their smartphones 24/7 – do you put yours away when engaged in a conversation with someone?  Are you present in that conversation, actively listening and engaging in what is being said?  Are you making eye contact and making the other person feel as if they are important?  Do you remember to say please and thank you? Both personally and professionally, presenting yourself as someone who is well-mannered and personable is NOT old fashioned, it’s a smart and powerful way to cultivate great relationships.
4. Timeliness vs. tardiness. Not to get old school again, but being late in today’s world still stings of unprofessionalism and lack of respect for the other parties concerned.  Do you make it a point to always be on time or even a few minutes early for appointments?  Do you honor a time commitment when you make it?  Show you care enough to be on time.

Whether you are meeting someone for the first time, or the 101^st time, be sure when you step into your day that you are putting your best self forward.  It is the mark of a good salesperson, and a common denominator amongst top producers.