The old guys might know more than you.
I'm very proficient and good at what I do. I am known as a top producer in my area. Still, there is much to learn.
Last night I went to play trombone with some "real" players. School was definitely in session. I was handed about 200 pages of music, and off we went.
The trumpets blasted, the saxes were the essence of cool, the singers were smooth as silk, and the trombone section had...me. There were four trombonists there including a bass trombone that could hit the fattest low notes known to jazz. Next to me sat the 1st chair trombonist. He kept encouraging me, telling me I sounded amazing. Said, "Man, you take the next solo."
"Hell no!" I thought.
"No thanks, not on the first night." I said humbly.
Then it happened. Eyes on me, and it was time for the solo. I'd been set up. I played the solo, and was applauded. I learned through the entire evening. My skills were greatly improved from one night with these awesome players.
Before I left I learned that the 1st chair trombonist has played with the greats. Not the dead ones...the current greats. Winton Marsalis included! Holy cow!
I started thinking about this and how happy it made me. How great would it be for us to have this same support from the greats in real estate.
This said, my advice is such: be willing to teach, and be willing to be teachable.
How disrespectful it would have been if I would have acted like a hot shot and stolen the parts away. These guys could play, but honestly, I think I could have out blown some with volume and range (not musicality), and tried to show off. Likewise, when we act like a know it all in real estate, we miss the opportunity to learn from those that have been through more. Even if we are currently outselling an old timer in the business, there is still something there we can learn from their longevity.
Next, take someone under your wing. I meet with 2 agents every week to help them talk out their business. I give them advice, but mostly ask them questions about their direction. I give them the opportunity to solo! This is such a difficult time for agents to be breaking into the business. You have a chance to make a great ally in this business by helping someone new break in to the business.
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