With a green designation, you...your clients..and your local community all benefit.

It's great when readers raise questions in their comments.

And what's even better is being able to answer the questions in subsequent blog posts.

Yesterday's post about the green designation brought this question from Harry D'Elia

“Will you be obtaining your green designation?

"Some agents believe that all these designations is just another way to make money. Thoughts?”

Fair question. Honest answer—no.

Earning Specialized Designations

But it's not because I see no value or benefit in the green designation.

The reason is that not being a real estate agent, I'm not sure that I would qualify for a NAR-sponsored designation.

As a writer, I do not believe the designation is either appropriate or necessary for my work.

I am however a strong believer in the importance of specialized designations that require study and experience.

For the person receiving a specialized designation, it is a third party endorsement of his professionalism. That always feels good.

For prospects and clients, a specialized designation demonstrates how seriously the person takes her work...seriously enough to put in extra time and effort to increase her skills.

Any increase in skills invariably results in improved work performance...and usually better client service.

For example, when I started the consulting phase of my career, I undertook the requisite work to earn the 'Certified Professional Consultant' designation.

For me, it was third-party confirmation that I really did have the requisite skills and experience to deliver quality consulting services to clients.

It also sent the message to prospects and clients that I took my consulting work seriously. I was not just calling myself a consultant until I found 'a real job'.

Your Green Designation

For you, it is NAR's recognition that you have the skills and experience to provide quality, environmentally-aware real estate services to clients.

For prospects and clients, it demonstrates that you take environmental issues and your own professionalism seriously...seriously enough to devote extra time and effort to increase your skills and knowledge.

Your local community will also benefit as a result of your earning your green designation.

You can add your newly added green credibility to addressing local environmental issues.

Another win-win-win scenario..for you, your clients and your local community. How great is that?