Looking like a Million Dollarssince Saturday afternoon at 5pm on January 27 2007 has a whole new meaning to me. To some, it may be clear, but unfortunately like some lessons that I learn, it may not be that obvious for me.
I went from my highest point in my real estate career (thanks to Active Rain, I got my first lead - my biggest by far) in a low point in 3 very short days. One of my qualities that I feel that I strongly hold about the way I conduct my business was that I was real. I was not a fluff, I know my stuff and that was what will drive my business to success.
Today, just very painfully I learnt that I wasn't quite enough. I met with this "lead" looking like the way I normally do - a plain, down-to-earth me with a sweater and jeans. I know, I know, it's a "duh" light bulb moment, but believe me, I just didnt think it was that important. If I knew, would I not have put on my best suit? Heck, I go to a church where everyone comes in jeans in the winter, and shorts/ flip flops in the summer.
I was doing my due diligence this afternoon, previewing houses for my clients. I was very grateful for the opportunity and I was ready to go work! I made 11 appointments, I was ready to make the most of out today and in the end, send the client a summary of my findings with good market data to support it. I was at my first preview when I saw my "lead" with another agent. I didnt know what to think and I definitely wasnt going to get an explanation from the client right in front of the family and agent. I didnt want to embarrass this person and neither do I want to put this agent in an awkward position. I scurried and left the house.
I call this person a "lead" was because in my first meeting, I explained what a Buyers Exclusive Agency was and normally dont get them to sign it at the very first meeting. I usually give this person a chance to see if he/she would enjoy working with me and normally after 1 or 2 showings that I would get this signed.
I am slow and I need time to digest all this information from the incident. I needed some wisdom and so I sought it from my former employer (whom I have a very good relationship with. He is wise and I've always looked up to him because he is a great man).
And this is what he had to say:
Loreena, this is minor bump in the road in the big picture. I don't even have to talk to you about hard work....I know that you are going to work harder than everyone else. However, in all business, there is somewhat of a game that has to be played. I am not saying compromise in principles!! I am saying that if you are going to sell luxury properties, then I would cater to the clientele. If you don't already have one, I would spend a little more money than you normally would to buy a suit, dress, whatever, that makes you look very professional. We'll call that your luxury suit. It's not that it makes you any smarter, but for MOST people that are buying houses in that category, it is going to help get past that first impression and say that you are a professional and you are there to help them out. Polished and Professional!! That means a whole lot in business, particularly in the real estate world. You can still honor God and be a testimony for Him in your luxury suit.
Once someone gets to know you, what you wear will become less important. Making a good first impression is essential. That is just the way of the world. It doesn't mean you are a fake, in fact you could say that you are looking like a million dollars out of respect for what the other person will like to see and respect in an agent. I have a good Christian friend who has been very successful in the Commercial Real Estate business. He would be the same guy no matter what he was dressed in tee shirt, tux, whatever....I would respect him the same. But you know what? He goes to work everyday in a suit and tie looking like a million dollars. Believe me, being flashy is the last thing on his mind, I think it is out of respect for his industry and part of being his best every day.
So, here I am 9 hours later feeling the very pains of my disappointment. Looking like a million dollars have a whole new meaning now. And it doesnt have to mean putting on a fluff and showing off.
I dropped off customers once, stopped by the grocery on the way home, pulled in my driveway and my customers were walking into the model home across the street from my house with another agent. I just waved and said hello! are we still on for tomorrow?
Disappointment is the name of the game and the connections people have may redirect your clients or customers to other agents. I have had one client call a "Rent to Own" sign and a couple days her head was spinning and she was under contract with a new agent and under very high pressure from both the mortgage broker (who was converting the rent to own sign) and the agent to get the deal closed.
I am also smelling a rat with a new buyer I have picked up. We went through the counseling process and were supposed to go look at property today and her mortgage broker friend told her to hold off a bit and not "waste anyone's time yet" so I am getting that feeling I am going to be dumped yet again because her friend (the mortgage broker) is going to send her to one of her Realtor connections. She is a first time buyer and I spend so much time and patience with first time buyers (from counseling about the process, finding needs and wants, and lots and lots of showings) that I hope if she gets diverted she will see that I am the one to be with ;)
As far as dressing for success: I always wear a suit when I meet someone for the first time. When I get a feel of their preferred dress code then I will try to ease my way into dressing "like them". I have lots of clients that I feel comfortable in the jeans/dress shirt thing and when I have multiple appointments and show up in the suit they are like "whoa whoa whoa". It's funny.
I have lost many clients to other agents just as I have probably "stolen" many clients from other agents. Just be yourself and hopefully people will see you for who you are and want to work with you. And YES, dress for success! Dress down when the occassion call for it but remember you are representing yourself and your profession. Don't worry, your low will be replaced with another high soon enough.
I think if I have not learned anything else in this business, it is to make sure my skin is a bit thicker. People can be downright cruel, whether they me to or not. Keep your chin up! And this is an excuse to go shopping if you were looking for one. Treat yourself!
I try to do a middle of the ground look. I'll wear nice pants with a nice shirt, but no tie. I'll have my suit coat in the car, in case I need to look more professional after I meet them in person for the first time. I can just grab my suit coat and put in on after getting out of car and going on first showing.
After my first meeting and I know how they prefer to dress, I then either stay dressed up or start dressing down(my preference).
Loreena - You're ahead of the game. I was 55 before I decided I didn't want to die in Levis and a T-shirt. Your pic is worth a $million - just allow the rest of you follow... and don't spend too much time beating yourself up - life's too short and learning is just too much of a hoot.
I know that you are a believer and to your experience I say this...What is for you.... is for you! I remember i was applying for a job as a TRAINER (it was my birthday), I knew I had this job in the BAG! Well I blew the interview so bad...that the interview told me to sit down (5 minutes into my presentation)
At the time I was devastated! I cried all the way home..had a wreck on my way home! I was so hurt I didn't get the job, kept questioning God and the whole thing! Well, 2 months later the company closed down, I wouldn't had a job ANYWAY. Shortly thereafter I met Tanya, my biz partner and the rest is history. So once again...What is for you ...is for you!
but in the meantime become a BOY (girl) scout..boy scout motto....ALWAYS BE PREPARED!
Im not getting it here...what does loosing a client have to do with your clothes? Ill bet you present yourself professionally, i bet you are neatly dressed, and i will ABSOLUTELY bet that a business suit will intimidate some clients.
Doesnt appear to me you did ANYTHING wrong....those "clients" probably lack morals and have just decided that they will use whoever, at no fault of yours...
You will probably never know why the buyer was with another agent. They may have contacted 10 agents and one had a home that they "must see today". Who knows? Maybe someone offered them a rebate. Maybe their boss said they should talk to this agent. Who knows? Maybe they plan to meet with 3-4 agents and not "pick" on until they find their house. I've heard that enough.
Forget the jeans excuse. I haven't warn anything but Jeans for 20 years and I make about $500K a year. I carry a Gucci bag with my jeans. Carry a Gucci bag and you can wear any dang thing you wish.
Just keep learning and working your market and you'll be fine.
Loreena...I feel for you. I always say dress for your market place. Here it would be unusual to be dressed in jeans when working with customers. My office policy won't allow it either. Want a good laugh about dressing for success...read my biker chick story..happened a few weeks ago.
I hope you don't take it personally, Loreena. It's going to happen as a part of everyday business. I know it hurts but you had the courage to share your story --- so I have no doubt you'll have the courage to be successful!
Loreena, I saw a sales training fild years ago called "Some Do Some Don't So What ?". Take it to heart if we work on our sales skills by making abetter first impression or our prentation skills and possiby people skills, attitude etc. It will still come down to some people will just not work with you and who ever writes them up is just lucky as they will show no allegiance. So as they say NEXT !
I would have something like, "Thank you for your advice and I will take it to heart. But in the meantime, since you believe I will work harder than anyone else, do you think it's in your best interest to go elsewhere because I did not wear a suit?
The wisest thing would be for him to go with you but then give his input on your outfit - if he does believe you're that good. In the meantime he may or may not get the best service. I don't think you should worry too much about it, just keep working hard and you'll be fine.
I just started full-time as a realtor (I have yet to update my profile) and my team leader believes that we should dress a little nicer than the rest and I agree with her. But here in S.Florida almost no one wears a suit and realtors are often in jeans, women wear little tops and no one cares. So I wear a button down and slacks and am good to go. Perhaps dress nicer than normal for the first meeting and go casual afterwards. Either way, don't beat yourself up. There will be others.
We all keep saying it and it's true-it's a numbers game and the more folks you get in front of, the more houses you'll sell. Doesn't make it hurt any less when you lose the 'big fish' but hey-you won't win them all even if you're dressed to the nines. Try hard to let it roll off your back, be you, and say NEXT! (and Lenn is right-if you have the right accessories, you can wear whatever you want)
Loreena, your mentor is a wise man, your lucky to have his counsel. Your story is tough and relatable,. thanks for sharing. I will take your lesson and apply it to myself, so your dispair is now helping others. It's in the past, so prepare & look forward. If you happen to think about the situation,. did you consider that the million dollar guy realized that you were previewing for other clients or not? If he is keen engough to understand that, he should notice that your a solid professional.. going above and beyond. your paths may cross.. who knows? so here so what you do. stand in front of the mirror,. > 2 snaps in a circle < NEXT!
Thank you each and everyone of you for words of encouragement.... It's been over 24 hours. I will come back stronger.
Ardell: I know what you mean. I guess we have to dress where we are. Here in Texas, and I also didnt mention that she was from the NorthEast, the client's husband is a Professor.... Guess I learnt that I didnt gather enough information the first time to make a judgement call on First Impression...
Chris: Your comment cracked me up even in this disappointing time.
Jennifer: It's easy to say that I'll be better prepared next time. But I will learn.
Renee: Thanks for your encouragement.... And as far as dress code, maybe it's just the person that I am, I just didnt care too much if I worn a suit or in jeans and flip flops just as long as I know my stuff. I guess, live and learn.
Jarrett: Yes.... my low will be my high soon!
Gloria: May our "skins" grow thicker..... yes, yes, yes... unfortunately, my former boss also told me that sales can be full of disappointments sometimes.
Mike: Yes, I "love" my former boss. He is a wise man and because of him, I have learnt to run some great fundamentals for my business just by working for him 8 years crucial, life-shaping years of my younger days (He hired me when I was 22 and right out of college).
Craig: Yes, after this experience, I plan to wear a better top, even with jeans, my leather jacket will ALWAYS be in my car.
Jeff D: Thanks for your time in reading and posting.
THT: Yes, life's too short to throw a long pity-party.... I know I will fall and what I must learn now is to get back on my feet fast.
Marci: Yes, Marci.... isnt God sovereign over all creations??? Despite the pain, I am going to say, I'm glad I learnt it this early in my business - that falling will happen. I'm just so on the roll and on top of the world, I forgot that I could fall down. What I need to celebrate is the 2 other listings I got this week. Yes, you reminded me of His graciousness.
Dave: Yes, it might be true that it may not have anything to do with me..... But as I watched them in the backyard, I just feel that that's the reason. Nevertheless, I learnt to respect my business and other agents who choose to look like a million dollars.
Loreena, I think that your Broker gave you some very good advice, it is advice that I follow myself, maybe that is why I agree with it. Cloths does not make you a Professional, but a Professional dresses for the market that they are in.
This pops up from time to time. How to dress, what to drive, and the impression it will have on your clients. My thoughts - be yourself. Some people want you to drive a 100,000$ car, some want you to drive a 15,000$ car. You can't please everyone - same thing goes for dress/outfits. Now, maybe if you are focusing on milion dollar properties......
Phylena: Oh well, now I know it's better to dress up a little more when the situation is unknown.
Lenn: I've been frugal all my life. I have nothing close to a Gucci. But yes, I know what you mean about learning the markets.
Monika: I'll read your story. Thanks.
Steve: What I learn, I want to share with others and hopefully, it would be a lesson learnt from reading this. Just like others have shared their stories.
Doug B: I know what you mean. Sometimes there is no rhyme or reason.
David: In my past, I have had Buyers Agreements signed. And one didnt follow through. But I never did pursue anything. I never want confrontation and I also saw the ugly side of what happened to the buyer. The property was on the market over a year and this person lost over 60K. I guess what goes around, comes around.
Tchaka: Unfortunately, sometimes we dont get 2nd chances in the business world. It's a painful lesson and I hope I have learnt well, and those who read had also.
Lilianne: It will be a lesson we both wont forget. It's sad, but it's true.
Leigh: Yes, I will remember what you say... Even with my best suit, I could still loose.
Nick M: My intentions for sharing this is none other than to share with others what I learnt. Especially for those who used to think like me... what I wear wasnt as important as knowing my stuff. Apparently, it does matter. And I think it subtly does!
George: My wise counsel was right. I just never saw it that way..... And yes, thanks for agreeing with me that I meet with some great wisdom that very Saturday afternoon.
Kaushik: Yup, it's never pleasing anyone. Prior to this happening, I felt that overdressing can be intimidating.... I think it's a fine line between looking super-polished and just down right me....
Your blog is heartfelt and I have had many heartbreaks so far. It might not of been your jeans, it could of been that you blinked or sneezed wrong. Sounds weird, but you might not ever know what the deal was. Although, I think dressing for the occassion is important. Some people just don't get it. They don't understand that they shouldn't jump from agent to agent. I have found that alot of people think that one agent has access to "these" houses and that another agent would have access to other houses. I don't think some understand that all agents have access to all the same houses. I am sure you are doing the absolute right thing. Move on to the next success!
How Might want to check out this post and many of the comments. It might give you some insight! But the most important thing you can do is learn from your mistakes... We all have made them:)
Loreena- I would be devastated !! Keep your chin up and move on...
There is a great discount store at Grapevine Mills that sells awesome suits, Kaspers ...I invested in a few suits. They have great sales !! Buy one black and one navy suit and you can always wear the blazer with jeans and cute dress shoes or lizard skin cowboy boots...You can look great even in your jeans. I always wear a suit at the first meeting and at closings.
Thanks for the post. This will not be the last time this happens. This is just one of the experiences common to our industry. Doesn't make it any less painful when it happens, but with each occurrence it becomes easier to deal with the pain.
It really does bite doesn't it. something like this happens and I get mad.
you talk about going to church - so do I. I'll tell you where I find the peace - the Lords Prayer. I don't recite the Lords Prayer as some do., I use it as a model for prayer. When I pray, I do not ask for anything specific - I figure that HE knows my needs and He knows my desires - if there is something HE wants me to have, I'll get it - otherwise, it was not part of HIS plan.
So back to the Lords Prayer - you know the part about trespassing - forgive me my trespasses AS I FORGIVE THOSE WHO HAVE TRESPASSED AGAINST ME.
Focus on what you have to do to get what it is that is really important and everything else is just dust in the wind.
Loreena..... I read most of the comments and I would have to agree. In many cases, you should look professional...at least business casual. But then again, some clients don't feel comfortable with someone all dressed up. I guess it is a lesson and can make you think for the future, on what some clients want. As so many said....it will happen again. People are just people sometimes and have their own outlooks on life....
Loreena, your post was so great to read and what great advice from your boss he seems to have a lot of wisdom. I've been thinking about this very same issue lately. I'm sorry that your lead didn't work out! It's too bad, but I think people people weigh a lot on first impressions in real estate (their, clothes, car, etc...). I go to church in jeans too by the way :) but when it comes to real estate looking like a million bucks is important and reading your story sheds some light on that. I've had to go out and purchase some things like a suit to make a good impression, but I wish people didn't focus so much on the materials. I helped my neighbors buy a home and wasn't sure how to dress around them because I didn't want to intimidate them with my dress but at the same time wanted to look professional. I guess it just depends on the client your working with.
After all these years I know at first contact if I am going to like a client or not...the ones who judge a book by its cover are not my cup of tea anyway. I generally wear a suit to closing, comfortable outfits for showing, and way casual for staging people's homes. I dress by what I am doing that day...not to impress people. Though I can't say I did that my first year in the business. You kind of earn the right to dress howevery you damn please in this business.
Although I don't think the clothes make the agent, it is just a matter respect as your old boss said. When I first got into the business coming into the office in khakis and polo shirts just didn't cut it for my broker. He actually gave me money and said go buy slacks,shirts,ties and miscellaneous for a weeks worth of outfits.
I guess I'll be the counter point to all of this. I hate suits. I don't own a tie. I wear jeans and a t-shirt almost everywhere I go. I dress as casually as i can get away with in every situation. I push the limits in this area way more than I should, but I'm at my best when I feel comfortable. I've been dressing this way for almost 20 years. It drives my partners crazy. Maybe that's why I do it.
Melissa: Thanks for your comments. Isnt this a wonderful world of real estate? We get our highs real fast and sometimes, come down just as fast.
Alex: Our God is awesome. Better planning and better chance the next time.
Marquerite: Yes, I have a lot of people on Active Rain that took the time to share a little wisdom with me. This group has been so wonderful and encouraging to me.
Lauren: As a very quick reaction of that Saturday event, I did go shopping - I was filled with disappointment and embarassment. I just felt like spending money to let off some steam.... I'm petite and I typically shop at the Juniors section. Kids clothing can even fit me.... And Women's clothes can be too big for me. And my husband says I'm too picky anyways. So, I didnt find anything I like - I guess I just wasnt in the mood. So, I went home and crawled in bed. I'm so much better this morning (I'm definitely not looking like a million dollars today, but I came into the Office just because I want to. I didnt wear my running shoes and jeans).... I learnt a whole new way of looking at this last weekend.
William: Not sure if I over-reacted with this one but yes, I know it will not be my last time it happens.
John: The Lord's Prayer.... thanks for reminding me of that. I needed this in my healing process.
Jeff B: Ahhhh..... I knew you (like others) would impart some wisdom on this one..... There's no winning it all. If it was this simple, right?
Patricia: When I wrote this post, honestly I was still throwing a pity party.... But with the all the comments and suggestions, I'm so glad everyone took the time to shed some light for me. I can be hard-headed sometimes.
Gary: First impression - I knew this one a long time ago. I dont know where it went but I'm glad I found it. I just some pre-judgements on some professionals (especially those who are new) to think that "fluffing" was enough to make it and I wasnt one of them who believed it.... A whole new outlook now.
Ardell: Thanks again for coming back here. I agree with you, dressing not to impress people. I have a new way of thinking on this one now - thanks to my wonderful boss.
David: Yes, out of respect. I just never saw it that way. That's why my boss is as successful as he is.
Jeff T: I'm sure you drive your partners crazy. I wanted to be the "casual" realtor. But this incident really shaped my new thinking - to dress out of respect for the profession I am called to be. I thought real hard about what you said and before this happened to me, I was 100% thinking like you. (Please dont take it the wrong way about my further comments, it's simply my thoughts about how I feel about MY dressing now)....
When I go to a funeral, I really dont go in jeans and sweater. I actually put on a black dress, and a coat (in the winter). Not because of my comfort. But really because it is respect for the deceased and his/ her family. When I go to a wedding, again, I dont just put on my cargo pants and running shoes. Not because I simply dont want to conform to this world, and trust me, dressing to impress others is NOT me, but really because I care enough for my hosts who invited me to respect their very special day.
I know what you mean though, Jeff. Thanks for your comments.
Caron: I actually plan to budget a small fund for nicer clothes. I do have them, but they are 8 yrs old. I think I could get some new ones in....
I've joked with my clients (after the fact) that they get the "pretty me" on the first meeting and the real me thereafter. Doesn't mean I don't dress nice or forego the make-up, but I dress a lot mroe comfortably on the 2nd meeting. I also make sure to get a Buyer's agreement on the first meeting. It helps that here in TN, you are required to have a Buyer's rep agmt before assisting a client (to me this means doing any running around). If someone isn't willing to sign a buyer's rep, then question whether you want to work with them or not. I'll pledge my loyalty to you, but I need something in return.
I learned a long time ago you dress the part. In your initial conversation with your "Buyer" or Seller one can typically get afeel for their character. If you don't look at the type property they are shopping. If it's 7 figures you might want to cinsider dressing up. After your initial meeting you'll know where this person is and present yourself accordingly. Jeans have their place, like someone looking for a horse ranch, or 500 acre estate with a ton of woods, and ponds... but not condo or house hunting... nto until you've gtot the bueyr on a brokerage and then only after you understand them.
Loreena- Don't let people drag you down... Hang in there and move on... I actually wear jeans a lot when I show houses...I always wear a blazer with the jeans to dress up a little. If you are that tiny it will be hard to find suits.
I still haven't figured out why you need to dress in a suit to impress somebody if I was dressed in a suit to meet a potential client I would probably be so worried about getting it dirty I would look and act funny. I still think if you are comfortable in what you wear your client will recognize and appreciate the fact they are seeing the real you
I do think in this profession, especially when selling six figure homes, one needs to dress accordingly My grandmother always told me "Patty dear you have one first impression to make." With that said I guess in this case she was right. If I was showing a lesser priced home, I would still, put my best foot foward and adress accordingly. Professional at all times. We all live and learn, day in, day out everyday is a lesson learned.
Are you certain that the "lead" has an exclusive buyer agency agreement with that agent? I wouldn't throw in the towel just yet.
You need to show the buyers how using you will save them money. I'm not talking rebates, I'm talking about how to negotiate. I don't care if they are in the $5M price range, they still want an agent that will fight for that last $10,000.
Email me and I'll give you some tips to send the buyer that will impress the heck out of them.
I think we've all been there and it really does put a damper on things but as far as the way you dress goes: Bob and I have totally different styles. I like to dress professionally and he just hates that route. So we compromise. I dress the way I dress and give him the once over before we go out on appointments and make my requests for any appropriate changes. I know it sounds like I'm a nag but it was so funny last week when on his way out to an appointment he forgot that he was wearing the indoor/outdoor slippers I bought him for Christmas. He got half way to the appointment before realizing his feet were colder than they should be. He had to turn around and come back. I neglected to look at what was on his feet! We had a good laugh and to make a long story short, now he totally trusts my judgement on the clothes issue. Take what you will from it!
Sorry to hear that, and i am sure it wont be the last time either. You can not please everyone 100% of the time, however i have always been trained that it is almost always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Perhaps getting that million dollar suit and be prepared to tone it down if needed, depending on your client as well. I always keep a sport coat in the car, and slacks too if i am casual.
Great Message Loreena, its is definitely something to think about. I live in a small mountain town in Arizona where it is very casual dress. I'm the broker/owner of Arizona Resource Realty and I have had to spruce it up to make a clear good impression. Its very important. Thanks for you insight.
Do I dare confess to my own fashion faux pas? If I were to describe my "out of office attire" it would be "Ouiser Boudreaux" from Steel Magnolias. I am southern and I like to dig in the dirt.
After starting my own company, I went to the bank to deposit some sizable commissssion checks while I was still in my jeans and t-shirt. I was not covered in dirt. I was just "casual". But, even with id, I was not treated warmly. That didn't impress me with this well know bank!
So, a couple days later, I went in again to do the banking. This time I had top fashion designer logos all over me (and not knock-offs, eithers)! The tellers treated me like royalty. And you know what, that didn't impress me!
After telling them about the experience in a friendly way; they now know my name. Whether I am in full executive attire or looking like one of the unwashed masses, I get treated respectfully. And respectfully, I learned their names as well.
Since we all know people are visual, you have to dress for success (or for your local bank tellers).
But, no matter what, whether I am in my Forest Gump T-shirt or my Gucci shoes, I treat people the way I would like to be treated.
I went in dressed in my work duds a few years ago, made a $2200.00 deposit to my roofing company account, tried to cash a $35.00 check, and she asked, "Do you have an account here?"
For what my two cents is worth to you. I say dress how is comfortable for you. I am not a panty hose and heels gal. I show a lot of rural property and I always an prepared to walk the woods or show a million dollar house. Pretty much jeans or casual pants with a comfortable shirt and a blazer. I can be in my woods coat and boots in a second or flash a smile and show a million dollar house. If my jeans and blazer is not good enough then they need to move on.
Things like that happen to everyone. I used to think it was only me until I heard other agents talk about clients disappearing. I guess there's a certain percentage of people who operate in a way that we'll never figure out. Just know that it isn't only you.
As far as dressing. I've gone from formal to casual to kind of formal. I had an epiphany at one sales meeting when there were about 100 agents in one meeting room. As I looked around, I thought to myself who I might consider if I were a customer looking for an agent. The ones who dressed well just automatically made me think that they must be good. They just looked so professional. The very casually dressed agents I just assumed were struggling. Those were just my initial gut impressions. Right or wrong, they were real. I figured that others probably would have the same feelings. So I figured that the business is tough enough, why put myself in the hole to begin with. If you look successful, people assume you are successful and it's your game to lose by not living up to the image you create.
To make it easy, I just dress pretty much the same every day. That way I don't have to think about it. The one day that I might come into the office in shorts, that will be the day I get a call to show a milion dollar home. My kids also know that when Daddy puts on his "uniform" it's time for business.
They could have been working with that other agent before they met you....
They may like you better.....
As a stager I agree that first impressions do count for a lot. I always try to look professional, but I never wear a suit. Actually the last Realtor Association meeting I went to my child care fell through, so I left my elder daughter with the granparents at the office and took the baby in with me to the meeting.
I got more leads from that meeting than any other! Be yourself. If you are able to wear a suit and still be yourself then by all means, go for it! :)
Im sorry for your loss, but loss happens every day. I've heard if you're helping someone over 50 than you always should wear a suit. At least you tried, that's all that matters...it's those who don't try are the real losers.
I have received such wonderful comments..... Thanks for all the support.
Tori: Sad to say, I have to learn about the first meeting impression this way.... Maybe because I have not gone through this, it never occured to me. Yeah, I know it's a "duh" moment for some, but I can be a slow learner sometimes. I usually dont get the Buyer's agreement signed in the first meeting. I want them to have a no-obligation meeting, go out for 1 showing first, then see if both parties will enjoy working with each other..... When certain conditions arise, I might change my mind. Like I did with the clothing.
Michael R: I agree, jeans maybe not for the first time since I normally pick Starbucks anyways....
Lauren: I'm putting this behind me. Yes, I agree and I'm in the market for shopping for several coats/ nicer sweaters.... My husband saw how disappointed I am and he took out $200 for me to go shopping... Yippee!!!
Tyler: I'm not saying that I'm dressing to impress because I dont believe in "impressing" others. What changed my views are dressing up as a respect for the profession - not to project an image that I am not. I would still buy a coat that I can afford with the money I have. I'm sorry, but even if I can afford an Armani suit, at this point in my life, I think I would pass on that. But a nicer ladies' coat, maybe.
Patty (Patricia): Your grandma is a wise lady! And so is mine...... Dont we all love our grandmas???
Frank: I'm going to email you. Thanks so much for offering the help. I need it!
Lisa: I love your story.... Bad thing about my husband - he's a computer programmer... He's jeans and cargo pants all the time.
Dan: Yes, isnt it true that this wont be the last time either. But everytime, it still hurts.
Tamra: I'm glad you enjoyed reading it.
Rhonda: Great story....... Life is so real sometimes, isnt it?
John: Yup, dress for success - but I'll add as a respect for the profession and the person we are meeting and not to impress.....
Vicky: I hear what you are saying. Thanks for the advice. But sometimes, it's easier said than done. I'm not upset because of the potential commissions, I'm upset that this person never gave me the chance. I know it will happen again.
Tim: 2 days in a row, I'm not in jeans. We'll see how long I can stay this way.
Jessica: Yes, this person could have working with another person. When I saw them at the backyard, all dressed in "fine" clothes and me in jeans... it just hit home.
Byeloth: Yes, I tried and I'll do it again (keep on trying).
That would be horrible. I don't know why appearances should matter. I liked the blog about the harley riding agent in black leather. Now, I think that may be a little unprofessional...lol. I like to be comfortable as do so many others. They say to be yourself but it doesn't always work that way unfortunately.
Loreena - a bump in the road is all this was, just like your ex-manager said. People will judge you without really knowing you. In fact, most folks I know will choose a realtor not only on their professional ability but also on their PERSONALITY. Know that you will not jive with everyone you meet. You will have some fantastic relationships along the way and some that give you stomach pain.
Presentation is huge in this business, and just as we stagers prepare a home for presentation, we must also present ourselves in the best possible way. It is NOT being fake, it is accentuating your possitives.
I typically put on some nice dress pants and a blazer or top when meeting realtors. However, this Sunday I stopped by an open house in a nice pair of jeans and a nice top. Despite the jeans, I felt I looked professional and presentable. The realtor was in jeans himself and a casual top...well, we hit it off. As I was leaving he walked me out and then saw my car.....he told me how much he LOVED mustangs....(yet another item in common). He now is one of my biggest fans and is promoting me in his office. Why did my experience go so well?...not because of what i wore, but because we were able to relate and our personalities were in synch.
I had another meeting 2-weeks ago which went well but no huge success...and that one I dressed better! I am intelligent, down to earth and honest. I know I will work well with people who have similar characteristics. For the other folks.....eh...they can take me or leave me caus i the end...I can only be me.
This one client just wasn't for you but dont let it stand in your way of success.
You should live in Hawaii and sell real estate. You can't tell the normal people from the millionaires. And many rich and famous people come here to get away from the hustle and crowds. Everyone looks like their going to the beach. The C-21 Owner, Broker, BIC and PB wear flip flops - slippers and walk around bare foot all the time. Aloha ha ha
I dress how I feel like dressing and according to the weather. I refuse to wear a suit in 100 degree weather! I may wear a nice pair of slacks and nice shirt but no suit in Texas Summers!!!! On weekends I usually show in a pair of nice capris in the summer. If I am going to a closing I may wear a suit.
Jeans....well it depends on who I am showing to or who I am meeting. This is Texas after all and boots and jeans wouldn't really be that shocking. I will wear flip flops with my capris but they are a "fancy" pair of flip flops that cost a small fortune with turquoise beads on them. I really think it depends on where you live and who are the clients you are serving as to what you should wear.
Hi Loreena, Ouch! That was a hard lesson to learn. We don't get a second chance to make a good first impression. I've found that it's much easier to build rapport with someone if we are alike. One way to head in that direction is to dress alike. That's a start. It also helps the client to feel more comfortable with a newly met person.
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I had the opposite problem when I moved to Manhattan Beach. The broker said ditch the suit and pumps...you ain't in Philly anymore :)