I love that idea...How many times have I been to the office and people just like to talk about useless stuff...I don't understand why either. I don't want to stand around talking about nothing that doesn't involve real estate. I have my desk in the back purposely so people don't see me and I can get work done. I love your idea though!!

There's no problem with setting boundaries, Keisha. I'm with you!

I work at home for this reason...most of the time I do not like the idle chit-chat and/or gossip that goes on at the office.  It is very disrupting when trying to work.  I'm having issues tho 'focusing' even at home though...this stupid computer, AR, e-mail, etc...seem to drag me away from what I should be doing.

I like that! Your sign I mean.

In my office I often close my office door and call it my quiet time. For those that are serious about this business, there are peak hours in the day when prospecting is pivotal to one's continued success. So for me, it's all about lists and a commitment to getting things done and calls made! 

I admire your work ethic Keisha! 

I admire those who can separate fun and work!!!

Good for you, keep up the good work.

I think that's great. Luckily I have an office and a door, and my office does NOT have a window, and IS in one of the worst locations in the office. All of which make it one of the BEST locations in the office when it comes to calling.

Nothing wrong with what you did.  The office is for working, making money, not a social gathering.  When it starts paying off your assistant will see you did the right thing.  She can call it her job security and should be running interference for you during this time.  If you don't prospect and get more business then she doesn't have a job!

Keisha-That is the way to do it!  I did that throughout my career...it's important for people to know what you are doing and how important it is.  I notice...in my office....if my door is not shut the associates just walk in ....I think its awesome...let your assistant know you aren't the first person to do it and you won't be the last... Let her know its just different to her but common with the pro's .....no one will take it personally.  Thank you for commenting on my post

GOOD FOR YOU!  I am giving you a 5 rating for this post because you truly understand what you are SUPPOSED to be doing when you are working!  I try to avoid the office unless I am meeting with clients or processing paperwork or printing ads, flyers, etc... because so many other agents just want to sit around the water color and eat their donuts and talk about how bad everything is right now in the market!  I don't have that time to waste, especially since I have another job as well and am a dual career (PART TIME AGENT)

Michael-

Thanks for reading my blog and the support. It's a tough job and it's not everyone who appreciates or always understands that boundary setting is crucial when trying to run a successful real estate business. Best of luck to you!

Keisha, thanks for sharing.  The key is time blocking. 

Keisha- I love it!  We work in a big office and there is always small talk going on...Luckily I have an office door but still it is so easy to get distracted.  I am going to try this one myself!  :)