Recently, while talking with an acquaintance, I mentioned that I work with Realtors®. With a snicker, 
the person interjected, "Realtors! They are nothing but a bunch of used car salesmen!". Now, I am not trying to insult Realtors® or used car salesmen, but it made me think how unfortunate it is that the actions of a few can affect so many.
The point I'd like to make is this:
Good, decent Realtors® have to overcome unethical realtors the same way a good virtual assistant has to overcome another unprofessional VA's reputation. Auto mechanics have to overcome dishonest auto mechanics' reputations. And, even the good, decent used car salesmen have to overcome an unethical reputation because of a few.
"Licensed Contractors Build Confidence". What do you think when you see that bumper sticker? That will all depend upon whether you've had a good experience or a bad one. Did you contractor over promise and underdeliver? Or, was the project completed on time and within budget?
I really don't want to offend anyone, but I do want to get across to Realtors® (and the rest of us) that when a prospect comes to them, they are placing a lot of trust in their honesty, integrity and ability. I know that ethics is a part of passing the realtor's exam. I also had to pass the ethics portion of my Certified Real Estate Support Specialist exam. But, answering questions correctly on a test only means that a person knows what ethics are. It doesn't mean they practice them.
As a service provider, I know the importance of giving your highest and best at all times, while at the same time charging a fair and reasonable price for the services rendered.
I know we have all had the misfortune of working with someone who perceives themselves as honest and fair; but at the same time will push the envelope. There is no such thing as being a little bit dishonest or a little bit unethical; you either are or you are not.
The value of our word cannot be replaced. In days past, people were able to do business on a hand-shake because they believed their word was their bond. Today, we have thousands of contracts, pieces of legislation and litigation because a few could not hold to that ethic.
At the end of the day, all we have is our self respect and integrity. Most of us are able to look in the mirror and feel good about what we see. We sleep well at night knowing we have done our best. What is your soul worth? What do others see in you?
Our core values and the ethical standards we support will naturally propel us toward success.
Comments(2)