DESIGNATIONS...how many is too many?

I have a few disignations, however, I think putting your education to work is more important that showing a bunch of letters

Hello Kat, I hope you don't mind the link but I did offer some suggestions about designations:

How To Make Real Estate Designations & Accreditations Work For YOU!

Delete at will! 

Kathy- There are many, many designations one can obtain. I too have wondered how many is too many. I think as long as you use the knowledge you have, and continually seek more knowledge, one can do all right. 

Thanks for the post.

Thought I'd stop by and say, "Hi." About the e-Pro designation in particular - I know that when it comes to the internet and technology in real estate, it's important to put into practice what you learn in class. The old addage is true across the board whether in real estate or another field: "Use it or lose it." So a designation is only as good as the paper it's on if you're not implementing it. But what do I know? : ) Mike C

I do not have the first set of initials. I read a lot and more than likely learned what may have been in these classes. I feel no less able than you guys. I do have 500 sales with which to learn. I frnakly run out of time. I do have a BA form LSU. 

I am currently taking the GRI courses.  Where my intent was to get the designation, the focus now is one of really learning!!  I have learned so much that is icing on the cake from the solid training I get from my broker. Plus the referral side is huge as I have taken classes in different associations and met wonderful people. Many of the instructors are still in the business so the stories they bring are relevant.

Collect the Initials in the pursuit of required CE.  Otherwise, stay focused on selling real estate.  Just my opinion.

I don't think our clients care about those letters after our names. And many agents have little clue about them either.

But for me there are two designations that mean something: CRS & CCIM.
Why? Because they both require the members to have proven they can sell some property. You can't earn them in a weekend. In fact,you have to submit affidavits of your work and your education.

The classes to earn my CRS took me about 12 months to get through, as I was getting my sales numbers up to qualify. CCIM is a butt kicker course and requires a lot more to qualify, and I am really looking forward to starting on it soon!

I also spoke to a lot of CRS & CCIM designees. From them I learned that you will get Referrals because you have earned your designation, and have become a member. Because it shows you have proven your commitment, to at least that degree, And they are right, My referrals, because I am a CRS, have paid for the classes many times over. And the classes are so good, there are some I will be taking again.

But the comments above are correct-
Do it for the education. Use the courses to advance your career, make you a better agent and help your clients. And sell some real estate too!

 

How many is too many?  The answer is simple:

When you need two or more business cards to demonstrate all of your initials earned, then you have too many!