How do we strike a healthy balance as people, as Realtor's and as professionals attempting to grow in our personal and business realms?
Perhaps some of us need to see the pendulum swing back to some good old fashioned basics. Things like calling our sellers instead of e-mailing them. E-mail is great, but lacks a personal touch when overused. Inflection is impossible to read, and emotions can be misunderstood. Pick up the phone!
How about a good old fashioned hand written note. You know the kind that goes in the MAILBOX. I have been doing alot of that lately and I am getting results, both as a friend, neighbor and Realtor. It is enjoyable and people truly appreciate it.
Let's see...how about holding an OPEN HOUSE and knocking on doors (yes I said knocking on doors) and inviting the neighbors. My dad was a broker for many years and made a dang good living knocking on doors.
You see while technology is KEY for the new consumer...let's not forget true LIVE connections. Face to Face coffee. Turn off your cell phone and visit with a friend over coffee that you have lost touch with. OMG Did I just say turn off your cell (sell) phone? Believe it or not, it is not your pacemaker. Just once in awhile. I double dare you.
Get out of the drive through line and go shake a few hands at McDonalds. Try it you'll like it! You may even see someone you forgot you knew :)
Instead of spending all day on facebook (which I love and use...) you might enjoy volunteering or going to the library where the real books and faces are.
How about the over used FAX machine...have you hand delivered an OFFER lately to an agent? Have you met the other agent you are dealing with? Sat down and face to face presented an offer? Well the FAX machine can be re-named the FACTS MACHINE. It can deliver the FACTS but that is all. What about the personal details and nuances of who your buyer or seller is? Think of how refreshing it is to have a clean REAL copy! hmmm...
Mainly...don't lose sight of the good old fashioned work and life. Not everything can be done in front of a screen. Consider incorporating some ancient rituals such as picking up the phone to wish someone a great day.
The heart of what I do revolves around service. How do we give great service without a combination of the old and new?
In with the old...out with the new...well, not OUT with the new...it's become apart of who we are now. I love blogging, e-mail, and all my Internet conveniences. Just don't forget to have genuine contact with people. We all need it. We need to be connected, and not just to the Internet!
Let me clarify: I am an e-PRO (Certified Internet Professional) which a designation few Realtors have. I am ALL FOR TECHNOLOGY and being current on the ways to best service my clients in a progressive way. I just think we may have left some great things behind and need to circle back and get them!
BethAnn Long, Realtor and e-PRO
509-362-4607
BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor
Coldwell Banker Tomlinson South Inc.
...there's no place like your home!
