It doesn’t all have to be automated. I don’t need 2 blackberries, alternative notebook systems networked to a back-up base system. I don’t need “Wildfire’s” automated sexy voice keeping my clients on hold while she (it?) tracks me down. I don’t need the automated transaction platform that only 20% of the parties in the transaction have access to. I don’t need 7 different pieces of software to track my clients, business and marketing needs.
- Over the years, I have spent more than $25,000 on alternative software systems to help me do my business more efficiently and productively. I wish I could somehow recover the hundreds of hours spent in learning an automated new system only to learn that I will have to manually enter many, many, many records………Like Susan Milner in Florida, I decided several years ago to overcome my technology deficiencies by simplifying how I do what I do.
- For me, a blend of technology and paper has worked very well. I use ACT as my primary database software. It’s affordable and the tech support staff is fabulously capable and patient. You can use as much or as little of the many automated options that ACT offers and be quite satisfied whichever way you go.
- My transaction management is mostly on paper. I have Sale Closing and Listing Sold checklists I created on Excel and print as needed. (Would be glad to share with anyone who wants them).
- I make extensive use of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Digital Image and Photoshop software in preparing listing flyers and marketing pieces.
That’s it. I do well, I meet my marketing plan goals, never have a problem keeping track of clients in process and find, that I actually spend less time at the computer and more time with prospects than do some of my more technology oriented colleagues. The only thing that is certain is that the technology will continue to change and, we will need to make important decisions about the changes we make or try to incorporate in our business. Will it really make me more productive and efficient? Or is it just going to be fun trying out a new piece of software with a couple of more bells and whistles than my current one? Don’t let me get started on Top Producer…………………
Anyway, what one change did you make in the past year that had a dramatic impact on how you do your business, good or bad?
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