Shop local isn't shopping at the Wal Mart or Lowe's although they may be close or easy access.
I can't say bad things about large "Box Store Retailers", they have 
the purchasing power to generate some fantastic prices. Some of them even have return policies that allow you to exchange your defective product! Many local people depend on the job they have a those retailers.
Shopping local is the grocery store, hardware store, gas station. Have you gotten to know any of the employees at these stores? My wife drives 15 miles across town to get her hair cut. She has used the same person for years. (I am not saying my wife is OLD...thought I would make sure everyone knows! including my wife, she sometimes reads my posts!)
This loyalty is from good service. Listening and providing what is needed. I have a client that asked where I shop for groceries...I actually do very little shopping but my wife uses one of the locally owed chains. She likes the service and the vegetables are always fresh along with the meats. He said, he uses the same store. His comment was they treat him like a person not a customer.
I asked a bit more about his statement. What is the difference, a person or a customer, they seemed the same? He said, like you...you listen, share and engage that is treating people like people. Customer are talked at...given instructions or informaiton and next...is the feeling you leave with once helped. You are just another face when you are a customer.
This brought back what it is about real estate that I like. The personal contacts and interactions. Sometimes that's the same reason I hate real estate too! We can joke about this but the facts are plain and simple.
You can grow your real estate business by listening. Listen to what people want from an agent. What is the service they expect from you?
Here is a key component to success in any industry but especially real estate. Provide a service that creates a lasting relationship. You will get more referrals and your business will last when others are long forgotten. Think of the family hardware store. They are always friendly and helpful. They don't always have everything in stock but they can get it delivered on the next truck! The local pharmacy, grocery store or gas station...if you get to know them they will help you increase your business.
Here is a link I thought you might find interesting. The link share some thoughts on training. Listening, service and customers.
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/7313150.html
Get more from your local businesses, help them succeed and you will succeed with new clients.
For Personal Service, Call: 616-784-2360 Email: GaryWhite@FlexitRealty.com
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