What really sets you apart from your competition?  What do you do better that would make someone choose you over someone else?

Every year at this time RISMedia does their annual Realtors On The Rise search, and in reading the criteria of their search I felt it was something we all should see and keep in mind.

The article begins with this line:  "The market has certainly changed in the past 18 months. Quite frankly, things are just not as easy as they once were. A real estate agent’s job is now more about actual salesmanship, hard work and determination-which is why now, more than in recent times, being a great Realtor matters."

Nominations are via a 500-word essay and must include these points about the agent being nominated:

• What are they doing differently in this market? How are they succeeding?
• How are they making a difference in their community?
• How do they balance life and work?
• How are they incorporating a personal touch with the tech-savviness we see so often today?
• How are they catering to the various types of consumers that are now coming through the door?
• What’s something different/unique that they’re doing with their business or in their personal life?

I love these points because it's what each and every one of us should be doing.  How much are you a part of your community?  Are you doing it because you believe in being a part of a community or are you doing it because you think it will help your sales?

Remember...your true intentions will always become obvious.  Have fun with what you do...you have the best job in the world.  You're autonomous and you get paid to help people.

Being great always matters, no matter what the market climate is.  Ultimately your greatness is not determined by what you achieve...it's determined by who you have become.