Frustrated

I was recently shown an email that an agent sent to prospects she had received from an internet lead generation company and was shocked at the way she was talking to her potential future business.  After reading it, my first thought was "No wonder you're not getting any response."

In a market like this, it's hard sometimes to stay focused on the consumer's needs because our own are so immediate.   Always talk to your prospects the way you would want someone to talk to you.   Remember...we're brokering the sale of a house.  We're not selling commodities.  If you talk to prospects in a way you yourself would not accept, then you are treating them as a less worthy individual than yourself and are therefore being condescending.

Sure, you may still get some business if you do it this way, but you'll also be ushering in a whole lot of stress that will affect all areas of your life because you won't be getting repeat business or referrals from people you treat this way.  Especially with emails, take time to scrutinize your verbage.  It is frighteningly easy to offend with an email...even when you have the best intentions.

And so, here is the email I referenced at the beginning:

"Greetings to all of those who have solicited some advice via INTERNET LEAD COMPANY NAME -

I am making a final attempt to inquire about the service YOU need per your request.  On attempting to call some of you, I've either gotten no answer, or I've left messages and haven't heard back.

In real estate, we don't want to appear to be "badgering" the customer, so we typically prefer to send emails until we get a response.

Sooo, this will be my last attempt to help you if I can.

If you are looking to BUY a home, you want to connect with me immediately!! The interest rates are between 4.75% - 5% FIXED with NO POINTS!  This is important, because this keeps the cost of your closing down to a minimum.  IF YOU WANT TO PAY POINTS, you can get a 4.5% or even LOWER FIXED interest rate!!!!  I've been in this business for xx years now, and these are the lowest I've ever seen.  If so, then I'll need a list of features, areas, etc., of what you're looking to purchase.  And if you need to talk to a lender first, NO problem, I have at least 3 to choose from that are all great to work with.

We are gearing up for a potential Buying surge, hopefully, so don't delay if you can help it.

If you are looking to SELL, then I'll be glad to do a quick EMAIL Market Analysis for you, it's faster and less intrustive, if you don't feel like having a Realtor come to the house.   If so, I'd need a few questions answered regarding your property.  I do listings as well as sales, and I hold OPEN my own listings, I don't assign them to other agents!

Either way, I'll be EMAILING whatever you need over to you, since we are all fairly busy and talking on a phone can be a hinderance until needed, wouldn't you agree?

Thank you and looking forward to hearing from you!"

I don't even know where to begin, so I'll leave it to you.  Do you talk to your prospects this way?  How would you respond to someone addressing you like this?   Brokers and team leaders...have you looked at the verbage your struggling agents are using in their correspondence?  You might be able to help them here.

This email was written by an agent with over 20 years experience, and is indicative of why many agents of all experience are struggling with today's consumer.   They're not selling their house to help you with your agenda, and the moment they feel pressured they'll just ignore you.

Coming soon...one of the BEST email responses I've ever seen:)

 
Post is included in group: Selling Soulfully
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Post is included in group: REALTOR LIFE
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Post is included in group: Free Real Estate Tips and Information

141 Comments on Do You Talk to Your Prospects Like This?

JAN
14
112,442 Points

And folks ask why their advertising doe not work.

Funny

Thanks

Tony

7:08am • #1
123,612 Points 1 Featured Post Hit Router

Some agents don't get this newfangled fad called the internet.  They don't understand the consumer that requests information. 

Don't worry though...I have it on good authority that this internet thing is just what they think it is---a fad--and it will soon go away and we can get back to business like we used to do it.

Either that, or the internet is here to stay and those agents who are not adapting won't be here.

I'm still pretty unclear on which is actually going to happen!

 

=)

7:08am • #2
303,385 Points 15 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Mark,
I'd say this agent needs some training! 

7:09am • #3
393,608 Points 2 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

This was a toug blog to read. I am sure the writer didnot intend for it to come across the way it did. Maybe they should have run it by a third party first

7:10am • #4
226,235 Points 41 Featured Posts Outside Blog

How to win friends and influence people...NOT!

She is certainly not practicing potato-chip marketing.

7:15am • #5
242,057 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I think they might need another line of work.  Obvious they are to dumb to realize the way to talk to people.

7:15am • #6
488,958 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I agree with you that the email response sounds pretty obnoxious. I find that when I re-write my 1st introductionary email (from my heart), a sincere desire to help and serve, I almost always get a good response about their needs. Thanks for this reminder. It's on my to-do list for today.

7:17am • #7
2 Featured Posts

This was the worst email I have ever seen! There was an agent I know that was emailing something similar (first couple of paragraphs only) and I tried to help her and told her, "No, don't do it that way".

If I were a consumer and got an email like that I wouldn't answer it and would delete or not answer the phone on any future contact. Who would want to work with this person, sounds like she/he wants NO personal contact with their clients and talk about pushy, this is the ultimate.

It's about RELATIONSHIPS! People want to feel like you care about THEM. If you truly care about your clients you will FLY in this business. Because, let's face it, there are probably a lot of agents that do similar emails, phone calls, etc.

7:27am • #8
217,781 Points 34 Featured Posts Outside Blog

What's the point of saying that this is the last time they will be contacted?  Just make your offer or your value known and send they something in another month.  Give them some incentive to call.  Don't start off making them feel like a dead beat for not returning your calls. 

7:29am • #9
181,053 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Email is so easy to take out of context and if they have not responded by the time that message was sent, most likely that message will end it.

8:07am • #10
254,592 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Oooh.  Tough talking email, but not sure it's going to get any results but turning off the buyer.  How about trying multiple contacts, each with a different compelling headline or helpful piece of information?  It is really hard if you don't know whether the lead is buying or selling - perhaps the lead generation company should be working to provide that information.

10:14am • #11

WOW!  Thats a way to clear out your sent emails.  I send out emails that get delivered once in a while to people that have never called or responded just to remind them that if my e-mail is in any way considered spam, bothersom, or unwanted, please feel free to respond or call, and they will be removed from the list no questions asked. 

If I recieved that email I would likely delete it and block the agent to go straight to spam.  I would be scared to call her in fear or a verbal toung lashing!  Feel free to share my comments with her, just delete my name HAHA!!!

10:54am • #12
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I can't even think that way!  The only time I had to send an e-mail remotely close to the same message I included an apology on the assumption I hadn't served my clients well and hoped that found what they needed.  The response?  An apology from them making me think I hadn't done my job!  We need to be careful with our words!

11:02am • #13
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Yikes! I think it is so important to choose your words carefully anytime you are sending an email. The tone of your message can be so easily misinterpreted. Wow...

12:00pm • #14
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Wow.  That is golden.  That would be laminated and used somehow.

1:59pm • #15

Mark,

Great stuff...Very useful advise for all.

Jayson

Jayson Tidland
2:16pm • #16

How RUDE! I can't believe that someone would think this would entice someone to return a call....

2:57pm • #17

Had to read it twice. Couldn't believe my eyes the first time. Sounds like this character has been a student of one of the "in your face" coaches? Oh well. Ron Tarvin says this 'net thing is only a fad. Kinda like oxygen?

3:05pm • #18
436,837 Points 47 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Not only is it a book there is nothing in it for THEM. It's all SELL SELL SELL instead of CONNECT. It would have been great if you showed everyone the right way to do it:)

3:20pm • #19

If she is going to use email it is highly advised to reread the email several times before hitting send.

She let her emotions and frustration leak into her email.  Unfortunately, bad news spreads faster than good and in a small area that email could have done her in.

I personally let prospects know that I am here to help and hope that when their need is there that they contact me and give me the opportunity to speak with them.  Then the real relationship can begin. 

People don't contact you until they have a real need.  A lot of people start surfing well before they are ready to do anything.

3:24pm • #20

Good God! I don't know where to begin or end with that one... I wonder first of all if this Realtor has any repeat or referral business. Likely not much and so has sadly resorted to these tactics. If I was on the receiving end of that email, I'd have a decisive and immediate response- press DELETE!

3:27pm • #21

I can`t believe that. It`s rude and immpersonal. I always respond to my leads as up beat and personal as I can get.  Right..isn`t that what your suppose to do. I would never....

3:27pm • #22

Wow! I am glad I did not get this e-mail

thanks for the post

 

3:29pm • #23

Somebody needs to take this poor agent out and buy them a few rounds and if they don't drink hold them down and blow on their belly. Anything to get them to lighten up a bunch.

Since I don't drink I vote for belly blowing.

3:30pm • #24
103,226 Points Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

This has to be one of the rudest emails I have ever seen.  I can't imagine this person being a successful Real Estate Salesperson.  If I were this person's broker I would take their computer away until we could fix their communication skills.  (LOL)

3:32pm • #25
594,634 Points 63 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mark, it is hard to believe that email is real it is so poorly worded. What a pathetic, desperate hostile agent is that? It is laughable. If it is real it gives all the professional agents out there a guilt by association feeling.

3:35pm • #26

Actually if this agent were in my area I would be happy because that means that consumers would clearly choose my professional services over that agent. If the consumer wants to be treated like a number instead of as an individual then they will use that agent. We are in the business of fostering relationships not just making a commission. It will not be long before that agent is weeded out as it stands today irregardless if they have XX number of years in the industry!

3:38pm • #27
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This seems crazy to think anyone would work.  Yikes.

3:44pm • #28

Even someone with lots of experience can have no clue how to use a new medium.  You might SPEAK with emphasis and say certain things, but you dont TYPE that way.  It's also amazing the lack of focus or a real value proposition to the recipient.  You are right, its about what you as a professional can do for them and not about what you need (business) from clients.

3:44pm • #29

This sounds like someone who is jaded and burned out.  I had to stop and read your post because I just replied to a prospect today.  What you say is a good reminder for all agents.  Let's hope that most agents aren't like the one you quoted.

3:45pm • #30
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This is definitley not something that I would send out to a prospective client.  I have to admit that in 22 years I have met quiet a few agents that I think would sound just like that.  I guess it takes all kinds.  And may the best email win!  :-)

Love your header!  Really cool!

Debbie

3:46pm • #31
4 Featured Posts

Was it an attempt at humor? Without a "tone" it's hard to tell, but I find it amazing that someone would be that naiive...actually, I take that back, I've seen pretty much everything, but perhaps the agent thought they were being clever?

They probably call themself "a people person"...

 

Dave

3:46pm • #32
1 Featured Post

Great post Mark.  I lost a listing one time because I didn't pay enough attention to what I was writing in response to an e-mail.  When I read it back from the client's response I couldn't believe it was something that I wrote.  I would never talk to someone that way but for some reason it was easy for me to put it in an e-mail.  Since then, I have been a lot more careful with what I say in e-mails.

3:48pm • #33

I can't believe this was email was sent to anyone-you are right we need to set down and read and reread our messages.

3:50pm • #34
163,185 Points 9 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Are you kidding me?  This agent clearly has no clue what "touch potential" clients is about...let alone, even being the least bit polite.  Takes all kinds.  20 years of experience and she is paying for leads?  Hummmm...now we know why. (Not bad in all cases)   Bet her referrals must be low from past clients.  Her email just gives us the warm fuzzies, doesn't it? NOT.  Wow.

Lucky for the agent that competes via the internet with this one:)

3:51pm • #35
1 Featured Post

Internet inquiries are just that. Inquiries. Chances are the consumer has found whatever they are looking for from another source.  Conversion rates are low in the first place for any lead generation source that doesn't provide some degree of scrubbing. I could go on but I made my point.

3:52pm • #36
142,476 Points 8 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

I agree with Denise - that person needs a good belly blowing - whatever that is.  :)

3:54pm • #37

That is hilarious!  What alot of people don't understand is that alot of folks might not check their e-mail for weeks at a time!

Buying ~or~ Selling?
Call or Email
Pete Elsner
Co-Owner/Agent
Cell 314-852-3862
Keller Williams Realty St. Louis
Search all Homes at:
http://www.PeteElsner.com

 

3:54pm • #38

I am shocked at the way some agents treat others! I have taught my agents, that when they respond to an internet lead, the first thing they should do is respect a person's privacy and realize they may be fishing for information. If you respond in a positive manner and offer to work with them to meet their goals, you will get a much better response.

4:05pm • #39
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She was rude for sure but also very desperate.  I can feel that all the way through her note.  Why would anybody respond to a request (camouflaged as a demand)? 

4:11pm • #40
116,378 Points 9 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mark,

Some agents have 20 years experience.

Some agents have 1 year of experience repeated 20 times.

This agent probably falls into the latter group.

4:11pm • #41

Interesting email, but then again--while I don't think the wording endears the reader to the agent--I can understand the obvious desperation that many of our brethen are now feeling.  For those of us with a solid and ACTIVE client base and who have commissions even in this market, I can understand how passage of time without business and income (while expenses never stop coming) can create the attitude of "get moving or get lost".  I wouldn't do it, but I can understand how it would happen--even from an agent with 20 years experience.  Just my two cents...

4:11pm • #42
660,444 Points 108 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Wow.  I am kinda speechless after reading this.  It's wrong on so many levels.

4:17pm • #43

My favorite part is the spelling of "so."

The three o's tell it all.

Karl Lueders, Denver Realtor
4:20pm • #44
1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Hit Router

Mark- there's only one response to this...Don't call us, we'll call you!

4:26pm • #45

Yea, I don't blame those prospects for not contacting her again.  There is no personalization, among many other things.  I do text some of my clients rather than call them but that is because they text me first or we have a relationship where it's easier to text them than call and leave a voicemail.  E-mail and internet communication is important as well but not like that!

4:37pm • #46

i find it amusing

4:41pm • #47

i find it amusing... that this site will let me comment without logging in lol

4:43pm • #48

I have received that type of message on catalogs "this will be your last magazine" in a last ditch attemp to make you purchase!  It doesn't work there, what would make anyone thing it would work in real estate.  Buyers and prospects are gold, and need to be treated with the utmost respect!

4:44pm • #49

 

Mark,    It sounds like don't call us, we'll call you. 

4:45pm • #50
409,527 Points 74 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Looks like a copied template emailed to clients....no person could be that ridiculous...but I've seen it before so you never know.

4:45pm • #51

This is definately a turn off and gives realtors a bad name. Thank you for posting this. It's a sad reminder that the internet is a double edged sword and can do more harm than good no matter what the intentions.

4:53pm • #52
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Hi Mark,

Great writing reflected by great thinking. I recently interviewed Brett Noel on my radio show and he struck a chord of realization when he told me we don't get paid to "sell" houses, per say, but to "expose" them to the market.

Your blog is very thought provoking and congrats on the feature!

 

TD

5:17pm • #53

The guy sounds desperate.

Also sounds like he's trying to pressure potential clients to "Act Now" for fear of loosing a great rate. I hope he didn't get any clients from this solicitaion.

5:21pm • #54
308,121 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Any agent that has to rely on bought leads, and then responds like this.... perhaps they should be looking for another job.

5:26pm • #55
277,471 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Good blog, Mark.  This dude (or dudess) sounds like their letter was written  by a collections company!

5:28pm • #56
223,952 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mark~ It is pretty condescending and uncalled for.  I would just hit the delete button and move onto someone else, NEXT!

5:33pm • #57
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That "wouldn't you agree?" line kills me.  It sounds like something a used car salesman would say.  Anyone can see through that old sales line.

5:43pm • #58
258,291 Points 1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

Are you serious some agent seriously sent that out and obviously to all people who are on their list. That is terrible. I would tell him to go shove it.

5:49pm • #59
Outside Blog Hit Router

Wow, With an agent with that many years in business to write that email maybe they need a few months off to reflect on themselves. As we know this business can be harsh at times some agents just need to take a few steps back.

5:58pm • #60
211,841 Points 50 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mark - I'm running out the door because I'm way too busy to read thru all the comments left here, because, well, you know, I'm a real estate agent and my time is really really important, but you really need to contact me because.... (Okay, lame effort to be funny, but I LOVE THIS BLOG!) Why is it so darn difficult for our industry to put ourselves in the other fellow's shoes and imagine how WE'D like to be treated!!!!

FEATURED at Selling Soulfully because this is what it's all about! 

6:24pm • #62

You know I can understand an agent feeling that way, but, oh my gosh!

Time for a attitude readjustment!

6:27pm • #63
233,025 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog

That is a very unprofessional email.  I cannot believe that someone in any sales environment would have wrote such.

6:43pm • #64

I would not respond or work with an agent like this if I were the consumer on the mass/bulk email.  No Thanks!

6:44pm • #65
1 Featured Post

wow ... looks to me like someone who may not be in the business too long ... or definitely someone who needs to stop doing the internet lead thing and leave that to someone who has mastered it.  wow.  real estate ... easy to get in, difficult to stay and, in this case, self-inflicted exit strategy.

6:45pm • #66
119,534 Points 8 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Hey, how'd you get a copy of my email????

 

Just kidding of course, but I did get a kick out of it.  It's quite sad, actually. 

I liked the idea someone had above about belly blowing, though!

6:51pm • #67
2 Featured Posts

I think everyone is missing the point here...

4.75% FIXED!?!

Can you send me her contact information? Without the phone number please...because talking on the phone is SUCH A HINDRANCE!

Thanks Mark, it's nice to be reminded that half the Realtors out there are below average!

7:14pm • #68

Unbelievable!

That agent should be reminded that we are in a "service" profession. The prospect can go to any other agent to be "sold" a property... How she lasted 20 years in the profession is beyond me... maybe now is the time for her to retire & let other agents who understand the way business is being conducted in the 21rst Century take care of internet leads...

Much Aloha & thanks for your post!

Monique 

Monique Ting, RA e-pro CENTURY21 Hawaiian Style
7:23pm • #69
350,595 Points Outside Blog

Interesting -- if it is too tough to read and comprehend then people pass on by.

7:35pm • #70
199,593 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Sorry this will be such a short response to the 'response' - Idiot.

Like your header & pics, good stuff, looks great.  Oh yeah, I'll call the guy an Idiot again!

7:53pm • #71
1 Featured Post

I think some agents get frustrated by the number of buyer that request information through our websites and new respond to any of our communication. What we forget sometimes is that today's world is all about instant gratification. If a buyer submitted a request on your website they probably did so on three others. If you are the last the respond, they already have the informationt they were looking for an aren't in need of your services. How quickly are your responding to your interenet and phone leads?

7:54pm • #72
107,078 Points 8 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Hit Router

That is beyond sad, it's just pathetic.  I have found a very short email to internet shoppers is the way to conversion for me.  My first email is pretty simple and only asks them one question.  And I always reply with "I'm looking forward to being of service to you", you wouldn't believe how many clients talk to me about specifically about that line when we do talk.  When they respond it starts the conversation and we go from there.

8:22pm • #73
1 Featured Post

That was the rudest e-mail I have ever read. I understand her frustration from months of no response from a prospect but that does not excuse her. Does she really expect anyone to answer her. She can't even go over to the house to do a CMA. If she never sees the house how can she compare it? I don't know how that agent has any business.

8:51pm • #74
1 Featured Post

That was the rudest e-mail I have ever read. I understand her frustration from months of no response from a prospect but that does not excuse her. Does she really expect anyone to answer her. She can't even go over to the house to do a CMA. If she never sees the house how can she compare it? I don't know how that agent has any business.

8:51pm • #75
111,928 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor

Mark, I don't know, I thought some of it was bad but it wasn't as bad as I had expected.  Perhaps that's why I'm not in sales.

Twitter

8:58pm • #76
3 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Wow, I can't imagine recveiving that tyoe of post and couldn't ever have thought to be the one writing it.  That's certinally an agent who needs to find a new profession.

9:01pm • #77
224,760 Points 2 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Goodness, seems like a timeshare salesman approach. 

9:03pm • #78
239,960 Points 11 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

If I was the lead generation company I wouldn't even allow this agent to participate.  Ok - this woman needs to have her email privileges revoked and maybe her license!

9:10pm • #80
237,649 Points 2 Featured Posts

Mark,

WOW!  I cannot believe anyone would even write an email like this.

Ann Hayden in bitterly cold Wildwood, Missouri

9:28pm • #81

LOL, i thought this market would have weeded out most of the weak ones by now. I love it when a realtor pitches rate to a client rather than selling their experience and knowledge as the proffesional.

9:36pm • #82

Great post, I'm looking forward to reading the best email response. I'm never satisfied with the canned responses that come with my drip email company or in our mls.  Even one's I've written myself...every once in a while I'm changing them and saying "what was I thinking?"

9:36pm • #83

Hi Mark, wow is all I can say. This person is quite obviously frustrated and is taking it out on potential clients. With that, I doubt he or she is conducting a lot of business.

 

frank j

Frank J
9:48pm • #84
1 Featured Post

She could have just summarized with "OK, I'm not in the business of wasting my time, so if you want to buy or sell, let's get a move on already.  If I don't hear from you, I'm just going to move on.  Looking forward to getting this show on the road and you getting your act together".  LOL

I can't wait to see the coming soon portion of your post.  Are you going to post a new blog or update us here?

9:53pm • #85

I'm looking forward to your future post on one of the best email responses you've ever seen.

9:54pm • #86
187,828 Points 19 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Hi Mark...The content of the e-mail does not surprise me too much.  What bothers me more is that this agent has 20 years experience in real estate and still feels this is the way to approach prospective clients, or for that matter anyone.

No wonder she has to pay for leads.  This agent needs a mentor to set her straight.

Kate

9:58pm • #87
Localism Sponsor

Agents like this, and conduct like this are why we are held in such high esteem by the general public.

                         Greg

10:00pm • #88
124,297 Points 9 Featured Posts

OMGosh... What did she say?

I don't know, I was listening to what she MEANT:

"I'm frustrated."

"I'm desperate."

"I'm putting myself first."

"You're wasting my valuable time."

Attitude adjustment needed ASAP!

 

10:02pm • #89
1 Featured Post

Maybe the agent really just wants to get out the ndustry and hasn't figured out the exit strategy - a little scary that that is what 20 years experience can get you!

10:09pm • #90

Hi Mark,

What a crazy email.  I'm sure that they thought they were being edgy, but it does appear offensive.  One of my goals for (starting 2009) was to have nothing in my inbox.  In achieving that, I found myself absolutely irritated by any email that was not 100% critical or dollar productive.  I've been unsubscribing to everything possible.  I think consumers have hit the breaking point ... email overload.  Drip and automated campaigns are nolonger effective and quick annoy prospects.

Best regards,
Mike

10:21pm • #91

All I can picture while reading this e-mail is a whiny screaming brat stomping their foot on the ground! It seems she is implying that her buyers are idiots if they are not taking advantage of interest rates...the frustration shows! Not cool!

Carrie Higgs Realty Executives
10:39pm • #92
386,019 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mark: Is this realtor trying to get new business or run them off ? Oh my.. How RUDE !

10:51pm • #93
262,468 Points 2 Featured Posts Hit Router

If a consumer is dumb enough to respond to this kind of e-mail, then real estate will never change ad consumers are not setting the bar high enough to weed these folks out.  Water seeks it's own level.

It goes without saying, this e-mail is pathetic and demeans our industry.

11:03pm • #94
Localism Sponsor Hit Router

That e-mail you cited is a scream out of desperation which succeeded only in alienating and/or squelching any possible response.  This individual is out of touch.  He/she needs to understand that on-line requests for information come from folks who prefer to remain anonymous until they feel comfortable with the rapport that is gradually established...one short, but valuable e-mail at a time.

11:16pm • #95
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You always want to give the clients what they want, while getting something that you want in return - it's called a win-win.  Talk to the client the way that you would want to be talked to if you were in their situation and they will treat you with respect and courtesy...and be more willing to do business with you rather than Jane Doe with the boiler plate templated emails down the street!

11:53pm • #96
367,411 Points 16 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Good grief if all I can say... I can't believe it. ~Rita

11:59pm • #97
JAN
15
7 Featured Posts

Clients are People...just like you and me!  Yes, there has to be a professional tone and boundaries of some kind, but for goodness sake...treat them like human beings and interact like you should...a business relationship is still a relationship and connecting with them should be your goal. (Thanks for the post, I know you know this :) )

12:15am • #98

Holy guacamole... does anyone think this person got even one positive response...? what an idiot.

1:12am • #99
4 Featured Posts
I love the email. As long as the competition is putting out emails like that, I have a better chance at picking up more clients. The reason I'm in real estate is to make money (obviously) but, maybe more importantly, to make friends.
1:26am • #100
3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Mark, with that type of stuff being thrown at potential business leads it is no wonder why the 80/20 rule exists.  Thanks for sharing the "What not to do" in this business.  Take care and happy blogging!

1:58am • #101
258,319 Points 44 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Either way, I'll be EMAILING whatever you need over to you, since we are all fairly busy and talking on a phone can be a hinderance until needed, wouldn't you agree?

Ouch!   I feel sorry for this agent.  Her "Call to action" came off as offensive and I'm sure she didn't mean it that way.

4:18am • #102
105,939 Points 1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

It is business like this that is giving professional agents more business because these agents are phasing themselves out!

5:27am • #103
170,561 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog

If I received this email, it would go directly to the junk pile.  Also, I would probably block this sender from any future mailings.  End of story.

7:35am • #104
315,980 Points 3 Featured Posts Hit Router

Sorry Mark, I just can't answer you about this blog, I'm currently talking on the phone and this would be a hindrance!!

7:37am • #105
341,747 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mark - Looks guarenteed to not generate any business. I cannot believe how many do business this way, though.

7:42am • #106

I'm reading between the lines "Well I guess I'll take you as a client, if I absolutely have to but I'm not going to try too hard". It's a wonder the agent is still in business. Thanks for the reminder to be human. I always try to remember to ask myself the same thing: Would I want to be spoken to in this manner?

8:06am • #107

For some reason a lot of the original post was unreadable out in the green frame area of the screen when I viewed it using IE7 and Windows XP.   In case anyone else had the same problem, I captured the post and am reposting it here :

I was recently shown an email that an agent sent to prospects she had received from an internet lead generation company and was shocked at the way she was talking to her potential future business.  After reading it, my first thought was "No wonder you're not getting any response."

In a market like this, it's hard sometimes to stay focused on the consumer's needs because our own are so immediate.   Always talk to your prospects the way you would want someone to talk to you.   Remember...we're brokering the sale of a house.  We're not selling commodities.  If you talk to prospects in a way you yourself would not accept, then you are treating them as a less worthy individual than yourself and are therefore being condescending.

Sure, you may still get some business if you do it this way, but you'll also be ushering in a whole lot of stress that will affect all areas of your life because you won't be getting repeat business or referrals from people you treat this way.  Especially with emails, take time to scrutinize your verbage.  It is frighteningly easy to offend with an email...even when you have the best intentions.

And so, here is the email I referenced at the beginning:

"Greetings to all of those who have solicited some advice via INTERNET LEAD COMPANY NAME -

I am making a final attempt to inquire about the service YOU need per your request.  On attempting to call some of you, I've either gotten no answer, or I've left messages and haven't heard back.

In real estate, we don't want to appear to be "badgering" the customer, so we typically prefer to send emails until we get a response.

Sooo, this will be my last attempt to help you if I can.

If you are looking to BUY a home, you want to connect with me immediately!! The interest rates are between 4.75% - 5% FIXED with NO POINTS!  This is important, because this keeps the cost of your closing down to a minimum.  IF YOU WANT TO PAY POINTS, you can get a 4.5% or even LOWER FIXED interest rate!!!!  I've been in this business for xx years now, and these are the lowest I've ever seen.  If so, then I'll need a list of features, areas, etc., of what you're looking to purchase.  And if you need to talk to a lender first, NO problem, I have at least 3 to choose from that are all great to work with.

We are gearing up for a potential Buying surge, hopefully, so don't delay if you can help it.

If you are looking to SELL, then I'll be glad to do a quick EMAIL Market Analysis for you, it's faster and less intrustive, if you don't feel like having a Realtor come to the house.   If so, I'd need a few questions answered regarding your property.  I do listings as well as sales, and I hold OPEN my own listings, I don't assign them to other agents!

Either way, I'll be EMAILING whatever you need over to you, since we are all fairly busy and talking on a phone can be a hinderance until needed, wouldn't you agree?

Thank you and looking forward to hearing from you!"

amadeus
8:22am • #108
2 Featured Posts

This sounds like it was written by someone with MLM (multi level marketing) experience!  I have done my stint among a few MLM companies, and tried my hand with Internet lead sources and marketing systems.

I know that they use strategies like this - coming off excited and passionate at first, and then by the final round of emails, they sound like they are trying to instill guilt to somehow motivate you.

I know in real life - I would not hard sell anyone like this.  Kindness and humility go farther than strong arm tactics for sure!

8:40am • #109
215,371 Points 1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Morning Mark,  Important reminder for us all.  When I see some of the writing skills here on AR I wonder if that agent sees themselves as will others.

8:48am • #110

Would be funny if it were not so sad, yikes!

9:12am • #111

After reading all your comments (111 of them congrats), a saying my Grandma my grandma pops into my mind and could have summed up her frustation in a less offensive way. . 

Dear Client:

Please Piss or get off of the Pot. 

Signed

Agent. 

9:20am • #112

It is so important to choose your words carefully anytime you are sending an email.  Chad B your comment is to funny...

9:54am • #113
162,696 Points 5 Featured Posts Outside Blog

     Geez, could that e-mail message possibly be LESS personable. We receive 15-30 internet leads a day and have pretty good success. We can see what areas and subdivisions folks are searching and respond accordingly...

10:10am • #114

Thanks for the reminder.  Email is often the first form of contact that people looking for information are comfortable with.  For instance, when I request a name and email address at an open house, customers will usually write it down.  Therefore, taking care when writing to them that first time is crucial if I expect to get a response...and I did get responses...two this week!  I like the idea of choosing words from your heart.  Write to them like you might write to a dear friend you have not seen in a while.

Beth Sorenson - Shorewest
11:06am • #115

All I cna say is - YIKES!!

Tom Phillips
12:29pm • #116

I find this rather amusing. I am currently going to college and on the first week of our Medical Law and Ethics class we had to read about Email Etiquette. It's amazing what you don't realize is offensive when sending an email. I have even straightened up my emails with friends and family. Soooo much for this agent getting a call or email back. They will more than likely tell everyone they know that if they get contacted by this agent to run fast.

Amber Herring, Real Estate Assistant
12:58pm • #117
206,002 Points 26 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

I am stupefied .....

How has an agent who thinks like that survived for over 20 yrs.

What an arrogant idiot.

... I'm sure everyone he sent that to immediately picked up the phone and called him to apologize as to why they hadnt responded sooner ....

YAH OKAAAAY !!!!

4:31pm • #118
249,351 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Mark,

This agent obviously needs an attitude check. It's hard to imagine how potential customers would ever decide to call him back.

5:59pm • #119
JAN
17
Hit Router

ummmmm.....wow I guess I really don't know what to say!  Did someone really send this email out expecting to hear back?  I hope that no one else writes like this...well maybe I hope my competition does...LOL!

11:03pm • #120

I like the idea of choosing words from your heart.  Write to them like you might write to a dear friend you have not seen in a while. I liked Beth's response on this.

11:14pm • #121
JAN
18

I'm not sure what everyone is saying the problem is?  Call to action?  Agressive tone?  We should all adopt this model. JK

1:54am • #122
JAN
21
2 Featured Posts

Wow, I thought I had been called into the principal's office.  If not hearing from leads frustrates her, perhaps she should find her business elsewhere.  Or maybe she figures if she hasn't heard from them yet, the email may not even be read by anyone?

7:45pm • #123
JAN
31
FEB
03

Hi Mark, WOW!  Sounds like one of the emails my buyers agent was sending......she is no longer my buyers agent!  Kelly

Kelly Tiff RE/MAX Achievers - Scottsdale, Arizona
8:40am • #125
FEB
15
1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

I actually thought it was funny...I would have been scared to respond too.  What you put into the world you get from it.  I've had pretty good luck with the do unto others thing.

7:33pm • #126
FEB
18
Outside Blog

Nasty. And all of the CAPS make it feel like she's YELLING at these poor PEOPLE who OBVIOUSLY don't want to DEAL with HER!!

4:08pm • #127
FEB
25

WOW! MARK YOU GOTTA BE KIDDIN ME! Either your friend has been in the business so long that she's just frustrated by the way the tables have turned. I think that she's probaly set in her way of doing things and in todays market in order to get any business at all (including repeat business) you must truly go above and beyond. Realtors are a dime a dozen...........and now more than ever we really need to cherish every lead and nourish the relationships we have built in the past.

Maybe she just needs a vacation. I almost feel sorry for her. Clearly she hasn't a clue of how crude she comes across.

Like Diane I would definately delete! I may even hit spam so that I can block future emails.

Be a friend and let her know, or maybe she will read your post.

All the Best,

Adell

9:08pm • #128

WOW! MARK YOU GOTTA BE KIDDIN ME! Either your friend has been in the business so long that she's just frustrated by the way the tables have turned. I think that she's probaly set in her way of doing things and in todays market in order to get any business at all (including repeat business) you must truly go above and beyond. Realtors are a dime a dozen...........and now more than ever we really need to cherish every lead and nourish the relationships we have built in the past.

Maybe she just needs a vacation. I almost feel sorry for her. Clearly she hasn't a clue of how crude she comes across.

Like Diane I would definately delete! I may even hit spam so that I can block future emails.

Be a friend and let her know, or maybe she will read your post.

All the Best,

Adell

9:08pm • #129
MAR
03
158,064 Points Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Thanks for the short course in how not to succeed in business.  I kind of get the feeling they will not last to long in this current market.  The best of luck to you.

Steve

8:06am • #130
MAR
04

So much personalized service. And they are shocked that this campaign isn't working? I agree that things like this make all of us look so bad and so lazy.

6:19am • #131
MAR
11

Wow, I don't talk to my clients that way.  To begin with, the yelling (caps), not very nice.  One have to be even more tactful when writing an email, since it could be taken in the wrong way. 

9:25pm • #132
MAR
19
124,194 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor

Wanda picI have learned that you cannot convince someone to buy using force and this type of e-mail would put anyone off! Thanks for the post Mark!

4:19pm • #133
APR
01

Wow, she sounds like a very frustrated and desperate individual. I would certainly not respond to an email like that if I received one!

10:14am • #134
APR
17
231,141 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Wow....congrats on  lots of comments. Sure got people thinking on this one. 

I like Chad's response. Piss or get off the pot and Dianes is great.....DELETE!

 

12:09pm • #135
JUN
20

I have email peeps that I have had for years, I have never met them, sometimes they ask me to research something and I do.  They receive regular emails from me based on search criteria they have outlined.  Occassionally these email peeps turn into buyers and referrals.  Now that is rewarding. 

The only time I got ticked off was when an agent posed as a client and asked me to research someone elses listing.  And then I wasn't really mean - hey it could turn into a referral - one never knows.

7:45am • #136
JUL
01
127,109 Points 1 Featured Post

Mark, this is just one of those things that make you go hmmmm?  Not sure the purpose of this email.

2:29pm • #137
SEP
03

Troy's comment is spot on.  I've done a lot of technical writing for industrial applications and always approached the work by checking to make sure my response to any sentence wasn't, "so what?"  I didn't see anything in that email that would have grabbed my interest and created a sense of urgency for me to respond.  I DID get a sense of frantic need from the writer.

4:58pm • #138
OCT
10

Lots of criticism here, but no suggestions on how to respond? We can't learn from each other if we are just going to criticize and put each other down.

I think that 'one-liners', ie brief response, or at the most a couple of sentences with a call-to-action addressing the consumer inquiry is the best response? I still have not been able to get a 'real' dialogue going, so would appreciate email scripts from those of you who are acheiving success.

And what about 'drip email' campaigns? Generic 'off-the-shelf' "520 'prewritten' email campaigns"? Anyone using those with success? I have not implemented because I do not feel they are soulful. I know when I start receiving crap like that, I just move the sender to permanent delete

Appreciate any positive, proven input from my collegues.

Craig LaMar, Real Estate Consultant, Huntsville, AL 35802

www.HuntsvilleAlabamaHomes.com

 

craig lamar
8:48am • #139
DEC
12

She was probably have a bad day and instead of taking a breather and getting her head straight she just let it all out in an email. I've learned that in this business you can't take "NO" personally, but if you get past the mentality that this is "work" and just have fun with it stuff starts happening like magic! I had to remind myself of this today... whenever I feel like I'm working I have to stop and tell myself to stop being so serious.

6:26pm • #140
DEC
15
1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Wow....I really can't imagine anyone sending this.....kind of depressing and a poor reflection on the industry...   :(

9:42am • #141

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