Linda it's the same way in New Hampshire! Be yourself as people see right through the phony stuff.

Jay - One of the things I really like about you New Englanders is that you all just say it like it is. I really admire that about you guys. I think it's called "good stock" or something like that! Have a great evening!

Good stock...hardy stock.... well man we have to be hardy <gg> with these cold winters we have!

Linda...Spring is here finally and I love it! Sunny and warm and flowers are starting bloom.

Linda, the best part about what I do is that just about everyone I have done business with becomes my friend.  Plus, I can be myself and most people seem to like me just fine.

Pretty common sense stuff, Linda.  Too bad it's not so common!  Truthfully, who really wants to be "sold" something?  I don't ever consider myself a salesperson.  I just help people find what they are already looking for and you can't do that effectively without listening to their wants and needs.

Hi Vickie - I find that's true myself. I just think it's amusing to watch people pour hundreds and thousands of dollars away on things that don't work. I can talk and my talking doesn't cost a thing...unless I say the wrong thing! LOL

Hi Moni! I know you're happy about spring! You all HAVE had a hard winter this year..that just makes spring all that much sweeter.  I'm glad you're getting your flowers..that makes it more real.

Lisa - I don't like the "sold" sound either..I believe people DO know what they want and we just help them locate it! I had to deal with a pushy salesperson today and it totally turned me off! Maybe he was the inspiration for this post!

Thanks for the reminder to just be ourselves. Folks either like you or they don't!

Hi Team Newington! That is very correct! Thanks for stopping by!

Linda, I love it when I see agents with their very large diamond rings and fur coats (I cringe when I see the fur coats!). I have absolutely no desire to put in airs.  In fact, in this area there have been a few agents who have had to put the very large houses up for sale or even face foreclosure due to the TEMPORARY (I'm being optimistic) downturn in the market.

Christine - I'm sure a lot of the agents have earned all of their bling, but I know of one agent who's looking to cash out refinance her house so she can do more marketing. A lot of listings does not parlay into a lot of money unless they sell. I hope for everybody's sake the market begins an upswing! Thanks for stopping by!

I love my diamond ring...no fur coat but my ring I wear proudly.

Linda, Networking is cheap and the best bang for our time and dollar.  I spend very little money on advertising and a whole lot of time being in front of everyone I know.  Even with a face like mine, you can not bet face to face time.

it is called network not netsit.  Most people are cave dwellers, we wake up in a cave, go to work in cave, drive back home in cave, you get the idea

Moni - LOL...I would wear a fur coat if I had one! I do wear my diamond proudly, too!

George, There's something wrong with your face?? I think it's handsome! But, I know what you mean. Networking is the best!

Dave, we do act like cave dwellers at times don't we?

Linda, great post.  I can't agree with you more.  It is so important to be yourself.

You know, Linda, we can overcomplicate the marketing process to death.  Sometimes though, we're born with all we need to make a great marketing plan.  A smile and a working pair of ears goes a looong way, huh?

Linda, You make some great points.  One of my best years in real estate was the year I traded cars with my daughter and I was driving the Saturn from hell.  She was going to UNT and that Saturn needed to be close to my husband; who is an Aircraft mechanic because something was ALWAYS wrong with it.  It was not fancy that was for sure.  I was so happy to trade it in for my Nissan I can't tell you.

Hi Bob - It's amazing to me to watch some people work. Even if I've known them for a while I don't recognize who I'm looking at!

Jesse - LOL working pair of ears! I love it! It DOES go a long way!

Marchel - I had one of those Saturns! I've had 2...first one was awesome and the second one I wasn't sure if I'd make it home in one piece! I drive a Malibu now and I love it!

 Hi Linda, isn't it amazing how the simplest things seem to work best. I think we all relate so much better to normal, down to earth people, no matter what biz we're in. 

you are so right - a true smile will open a lot of doors for you

Linda you just have to be yourself. Why be something that you are not. People can spot a fake smile miles away. I can tell your smile is genuine. Have a great weekend.

Linda - this is great advice for all real estate agents!  Just talking, smiling, and letting others know you are there to help them with their real estate needs when they are ready is one of the best things for business.  We all just need to get back to basics - and it's free!

I agree a smile goes a long way, I drive a 1994 Jeep and people say they hire me because I don't try to impress them with flash, just hard work and the truth!

I was in new home sales and bought my hubby a (used) GMC Yukon because it's what he really wanted. He goes out on appointments in those real popular bowling looking shirts, slacks and then the black and gray leather shoes in his Yukon with his badge. He wears the nice black diving watch I bought him and that's it. People would always say, you don't seem like a regular Realtor. It always made me wonder what a "regular" Realtor would look like? That's one of the reasons we're not in black coats with Sold signs in our teeth - we're pretty different. We wanted our pictures to reflect that as well. What's nice about it, too, is that kindred spirits are drawn together. I was able to get my husband a substantial commercial client today from another website posting and my write-up. Life is good.

The basics still work!  Thank God.  It has been said many times in many ways, people don't how much your know or market, until they feel you care.  Smiling and listening go a long way in showing you care.

marti, my friend! It is the simple things in life that tend to bring us the most pleasure. It always surprises me when people seemed surprised when you give them a heartfelt smile as you walk past them. Have a great Sunday!

Hi Linda - Congrats on you Gold Star. Your right people appreciate others who are genuine and honest. A smiling face shows you have a great attitude which is very important!

Thesa - You are absolutely correct!

Lanre - Thanks for the compliment!

Mary - You just can't beat the basics!

Morning Todd - Flash doesn't work well here in Ft. Worth..and, today's the day!

Terri - I'm with you..what does a "regular" REALTOR look like?? Is it just the public's perception?

Hi Notary - You have to be genuine!

Good Morning Bill! I've missed you! Have you been busy? A smiling face is a good thing and you have one of the best smiles around here!

Linda,

Although I have nice fancy cars...but I worked too hard notto want to enjoy their use....I would walk my clients around if I could...but I am sort of laid back but always seem to be running at 110 miles an hour...but at least I spend time listening to what they want. I may not always agree but they are the consumer. Ok I admit it...I love my toys...not for them but for me!!!:)

Neal - I have to confess, I would love a fancy car for myself! I have a husband who constrains me from spending ALL my money! You sound like me...I'm very laid back, but my motor is always behind it seems!

Linda, I was drawn to this post by your great title but stayed when I was pleasantly surprised at the down-to-earth content.  Thanks for the reminder and for putting our priorities in order!

Linda,

Great post...I too was drawn by the title; and thought how nice that others feel the way I do regarding business relationships.  Of the few things you mentioned, I think listening is key. Listening and smiling goes a long way. 

Thanks, Sandy

Linda, this post is so true. Being genuine is sooo important. Folks can tell a fake from a mile away. They just want to work with someone they trust and like.

Diane - Thanks for the compliment! I don't know any other way to be other than down-to-earth! I interact with wide spectrum of people and they all want to be treated the same...with respect. Thanks for stopping by!

Sandy - I think listening and keeping your lips zipped is one the most important elements. You can't hear someone if you're talking! Thanks for the comment!

BB - It's a pleasure to see you! I kind of pick my clients the same way...there's nothing worse than working with someone you don't like or trust. It kinda goes both ways in a relationship! Have a wonderful Sunday!

I have to agree with BB (he pays me well to do that... NO!  Just kidding I agree with him for free... But he is Right.  Being genuine and sincere with a smile.

I actually got a referral this week, and the agent referring me said " please don't have your buyer agent show up in lots of jewelry". Oh, no problem she will be working with my 28 year old daughter and she loves to wear jeans. Congratulations on the feature.

Very good advice.  Recently I met a man who is on the POA at a complex where I own a proeprty.  Within 60 seconds, he gave me a synopsis of everything he owns, where and how much.  I was SO turned off.  People just don't like that stuff.

Allison - sincerity always pays off! (I had a sneaky feeling BB had a few on the payroll! LOL)

Missy - I think people can be intimidated by all the fluffy stuff. I think we should look professional, but not shallow. Thanks for the congrats!

Diane - It does kind of make the stomach churn doesn't it??

You are your best marketing tool.  You have to be available and out there for people to know what you do.  Blogging has definitely been a great source for me this past year.

Linda, you are right on the mark with this post.  Congratulations on the gold star!

Linda, I agree wholeheartedly with you!  My coach reminds me that people are buying you! Thank you.

Your timing was perfect.  I was just thinking about "what else" I could do, create, mailout, etc., to "farm" to people I don't know when, in fact, looking at where my business has come from has been referrals!  I will shift the focus!  Thanks for the reminder.

Hi Linda - great reminder about all the 'things' we do and can spend money on, and where we really SHOULD be spending our time and effort.  Being real makes a HUGE difference.  Fakes drive me nuts, and I always wonder just how on earth they manage to do whatever business they do.  And I wonder about the people who actually hire them - can't they see through all that phoniness???

Congrats on the gold star!
Ann

Congrats on the featured post Linda. That little gold star looks lovely on you :)

Linda - great points. To the mouth and two ears, add two eyes (also free). It makes a big difference when you look at someone when they're talking and you're listening - or when you're talking, or smiling.

Linda - great points. To the mouth and two ears, add two eyes (also free). It makes a big difference when you look at someone when they're talking and you're listening - or when you're talking, or smiling.

Linda, Congrats on the featured post star.  The way you are working real estate is the best way....and cheapest.  Like you say, just be yourself and that will do it. Thanks for sharing.

I agree!  I always tell my broker that I get clients through my "bubbly personality"  He laughs, but it's true!  Of course, I'm still amazed at how some agents, who never smile, get the business they do!

I had a client tell me that the best thing I ever did was answer the phone... just about every time he called... and when I didn't, I called back promptly.  He fired an agent because she didn't anser her phone or return his calls. 

Linda -- lots of great pointers here.  I am glad I don't have to get one of those expensive cars to be successful.  Hope all is going well and as Monika said -- spring has finally come to New Hampshire and buyers are out there buying -- so all is well.

Hi Linda,

This is so true, just be yourself and the business will follow. Like you, I often become friends with my clients. :)

Hi Linda: I agree with you. For me, the favorite part of my job is having coffee or lunch with a client, prospect, realtor, referral partner, etc. I would encourage everyone to do this. And if you haven't read the book "Never Eat Alone" yet, do it! Have a great day!

Paul

Linda~ You are sooo right! Case in point: I tried a new expensive salon this week, and the stylist barely spoke two words to me, didn't smile once, and kept talking about how she wanted to go home for the day...so NOT worth my expensive haircut, and I won't go back to her. Those things that are free..smiles, eye contact, and listening are so important to making that connection.

Linda -  You are so lucky to work in the Fort Worth area!   It really is a laid back atmosphere with wonderful cultural venues like the museums and Sundance Square.   One of my good friends is a broker in Azle, and he works in hawaiian shirts and shorts in the summer and absolutely loves it.    Down here at Fort Hood, we work with people from all over the world who are in a hurry and don't need all the trappings of "fluff".    We stress service and friendliness in my office!

You are correct about the relax part of it - an overanxious salesperson turns off the prospects that you worked so hard to get in front of.  Being yourself is always a good thing and I think that we all forget that once in a while!

Linda - I think that you have hit this straight on - be real - people see the phoney and are turned off. I'm a straight shooter so if someone asks my opinion I ask first if they really want it because I won't mince words I just tell it like I see it. Thanks for mentioning the car thing as I have been at war within wondering about the impression my car makes when people see it. I forgot that they are looking at my smile and don't even see my car:) lol

Listening  . . . what a concept!!!  You are correct that so many people in our industry don't pay enough attention to their clients words.  Great post.

Naoma - blogging's the best

David - Thank you!

Irene - They consumer does "buy us" don't they?

I love blogging :)  I got to meet you :)

Anonymous -  :-)

Ann - I have wondered myself if they can't see through all that "stuff" Thanks!

Moni - Why..thank you!  :-)

Sharon - When people don't make eye contact with me it makes me wonder...

Kay -  Thanks! It always pays to be yourself!

Sandra - That's cute! I'll bet that's why you DO get clients!

Lane - Oh...one of my pet peeves!! ANSWER that phone!

Joan - If someone bought me a fancy car I'd drive it! But, the practical side of me says "don't pay THAT for a car!

Suzanne - Sometimes they make the best friends!

Paul - I've never read the book, but have heard about it. I think we sure do need to eat lunch with other people!

Laura - Doesn't that just gall you??? I wonder, too, how they get clients!

Mary Ann - Fort Worth is a great place to work AND live! You have a lot to be proud of in Fort Hood as well!

Nyles - Have you ever noticed how the "overanxious" seem to make everyone anxious??

Judy - LOL Judy!! After we went to the car show and saw those prices! Yikes! I think I'll keep what I have. You do have a great smile by the way.  :-) or, maybe they saw your shower video and looked right past the car? LOL

Grant - People don't listen..I sit in the office and notice that!

Sally -  same here!  :-))

Blogging is free and that is why I love it!  It also help me build more knowledge about real estate as well that is why I think it is awesome.

Ryan - I love Active Rain for that reason. The knowledge gained here is immesurable! Thanks for stopping by!

Linda, the simplicity of your message of a smile and listening should be taken to heart by all Realtors. It really is a people business. Congratulations on your Gold Star. You're always a star in my book.

Gary - You always say the sweetest things! Thank you!

Linda,

Thanks for this post.  Nuggets like this are what keeps me involved in Active Rain.  Good luck out there!

Brett 

Brett - thanks! And thanks for stopping by and commenting!

I agree completely. We can sometimes waste so much time creating these beautiful marketing materials that we forget to just go out and be ourselves!

Christy - I think a lot of people hide behind their marketing! I do like to create beautiful marketing pieces, but if you don't learn how to interact with people it's a moot point! Thanks for stopping by!

WENDY - you did a great job summarizing what I've always thought!  thanks for the confirmation.

Wendy - You are quite welcome!  :-)

I read this blog and LOL.  I'm glad so many "higher class intelligent people" in the Rain understand this.  It's just amazing at the people that spent all that money on "Calendars", "Fancy Embossed Business Cards", "Pens", "Pencils", "Flashlights", "Key Chains"....and the list goes on and on.

I learned in 1974, "KISS"....Keep It Simple Sam.  #1) Make Friends #2) Friends do business with Friends #3) Need more business?...Make More Friends.

In fact, I print my business cards on my HP Printer....10 at a time and the back sure strikes up a conversation to make more friends...a picture of my 13 yr old 3rd degree Black Belt daughter.  Sometimes I print a house I have for sale on the back.

Great Post Linda!!

No kidding about the car!  Good thing I am driving a 2001 Honda CRV with 160,000 miles!  I am going to drive it into the ground!

I love the part about the car!  Great post!

Tina in Virginia

I can't cater to everyone but I feel it's most important to have professional flair. If I was selling my home and my Realtor showed up in a Ford Escort I'd be shocked. I expect my Realtor to be successful and nice cars reflect that. It doesn't matter if you drive a nice car as long as your attitude reflects your success in a positive manner. 

David - Need more business?...Make More Friends  That is right on target!

Barb - A paid off car is the best kind!

Tina - Thanks!

Alan - I think you can act professionally an not drive the most expensive car. I have a friend who drives a new Lexus and I would do business with her if she was the last agent (maybe the last)..I understand the statement about successful, but a lot of people want to look successful when they're not...just like my friend.  You are correct..our attitude is a direct reflection on how successful we are! Thanks for stopping by!

Linda hello from Riverdale, Georgia thanks for those tips they are totally true.