Tough Love Series

I have been a real estate agent for a number or years, starting when I was quite young. (I was a 5+ year veteran when the picture to the right was taken!) When I started I didn't have a clue what I was doing, but I hustled and in a few years I got to the point where I owned my own real estate brokerage. Needless-to-say, I know a thing or two about selling real estate and helping other agents grow their business. Although I tend to be an overly positive and optimistic person I know that helping people increase their production is not always about positive motivation. Sometimes people need to be "told it like it is". They need tough love. In the past I have shied away from writing tough love posts because I do not want to come across as negative or preachy. Plus a blog post authored by ActiveRain's CEO brings with it a greater influence on the real estate industry than had I penned it without the title. So I try to be cautious and avoid writing any controversial posts. (Maybe I will change that stance.)

Bottom line is, there are some things that I would like to say. They won't all be pretty, but hopefully in the end they will make a positive impact.

 
Posted by Jonathan Washburn on 05/10/2008 01:59 PM   Comments (9)    

9 Comments on Tough Love Series

Jonathan - this is an interesting post, and I can completely understand where you are coming from, and some of the reasons you mentioned. Now I'm curious as to some of the topics or issues you were thinking about.

05/10/2008 02:04 PM by Jason Todd, Real Agent Blogs ( Marketing, Branding + Blogging )

Preach on Brother, I welcome any and all comments and I sure most people would approach

05/10/2008 02:14 PM by Dave Woodson (Indigo Financial Group Inc.)

Jon:

Remember that line in Spiderman..when Peter Parkers uncle is dieing...

"with great power comes great responsibility."

You are in a position of power in this industry for thousand of real estate agents.  You owe it to them and yourself to be honest with them.  Not saying that you aren't honest.  You are.  Jason and I don't question your integrity...at all. 

You just aren't quite so vocal at times.  I understand why. 

Practicing tough love is hard.  I just had to do it with my kids.  But, you do it because you love them.  You do it because you want what is best for them.

The same thing with your thoughts here on Active Rain.  You share them because you love this industry and want what is best for your members.  Even if that is a different career option.

I look foward to this new series.

05/10/2008 02:51 PM by Jessica Horton (Brio Realty)

Jessica, I love it that I can always count on your for a movie quote! btw, we are still on for "Maid of Honor" this afternoon right?  Your tough love with your kids does not mean that movie day is cancelled? Sara and I were so looking forward to it.

Jason, Here is my first post in the series: Change is hard but maybe it's time you left real estate.

05/10/2008 02:59 PM by Jonathan Washburn (ActiveRain Corp)

Jon:

No, they got their tough love!  It doesn't mean the movie is cancelled! That would be punishment for me!  I SO want to see this movie!!!!!! 

 We are excited about the movie and can't wait to double with you guys.  Well, would that be a triple...since our little ones are coming?  =]

05/10/2008 03:09 PM by Jessica Horton (Brio Realty)

Jonathan, I like a straight shooter. Some people need to get a little push so sugar coating won't work.

05/10/2008 10:52 PM by Jennifer Fivelsdal, Rhinebeck NY (Keller Williams Realty)

Jonathan,

I so much prefer the "give it to me straight" approach than having "my ears tickled" with BS.  Just give it to us straight and most of us will be happy.

05/13/2008 11:19 PM by Fran Gatti - Crescent City CA Real Estate (RE/MAX Coastal Redwoods)

Jonathan - we are all waiting for the detailed post of your thoughts!!!

05/16/2008 06:53 AM by Bill & Barbara Jo - Florida Realty Professional - AHWD (Charles Rutenberg Realty)

The point is, if we already knew everything there was to know, there wouldn't be anything left to learn, and that never happens.

05/16/2008 09:37 PM by J. Teeple (Weichert Realtors)

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