You can't unring the bell.

To say that real estate transactions are difficult today is really an understatement. There are challenges lurking around every corner trying to get all parties to the settlement table. Everything takes longer, and everything requires appropriate communications along the way.

I’ve seen a lot of frustrated agents say things during the heat of an issue that could actually hinder communications, not enhance it. Take out your frustrations, that’s fine...but keep it to yourself.

You can’t unring the bell:

• When you write something inappropriate in an email. Calling back an email message after you send it is virtually impossible. eMail is especially important since it’s a very flat medium, and messages can easily be taken the wrong way. Count to ten before you hit that send.
  
• When you leave that nasty voicemail message. I’ve seen a lot of agents do this, only to regret it after they hung up.
  
• When you raise your voice in an unprofessional manner.  Take the high road on this one. It doesn’t pay to come across as a bully in a transaction. Yelling very rarely works to get things done.
  
• When you lie.  Enough said.

I’ve been on jury duty where the judge instructed us to disregard that last remark. Yeah, right. It doesn’t work there, and it doesn’t work in our professional life. Once you say something, or write something, it usually can't be undone. Apology accepted, but the bell still can't be unrung.

I’m not advocating rolling over and taking a hit. Stand up for your rights and those of your clients, just act like the professional that you are, and you can get a lot more accomplished.

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Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Long and Foster® Real Estate, Inc.
Crofton, MD 21114

410-451-6255 Office
443-995-9595 Cell
Web: http://www.RichSellsHomes.com
eMail: Rich@RichSellsHomes.com

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