Are You an Enemy Agent?

Today's interview with Steve Babbitt inspired something that is all but profound, and something we should all take to heart. To hear the full interview that's robust with nuggets you can take and bake today, click on the link below, but for now, let's focus on what I'm going to call your, "Other Agent Attitude."

When Steve and I first started talking about Facebook he mentioned some unheard of number (over a thousand) friends, and he proudly proclaimed they were mostly real estate agents.

HUH?

Why in the world would a real estate agent want to have so many connects with other real estate agents? And then he said something about local agents.

GASP!

So not only is he friends with more than a thousand agents around the world, but he's networking with local agents? Is there a method to his madness?

First, let's step back a bit. I recently read a blog where an agent was talking about the importance of networking and sharing ideas with other agents, as long as they didn't work in the same town as you. Words like, competition, greed, cut-throat come to mind. But is this true? Does it need to be?

Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a big proponent of mind-set management, and that means just what it sounds like it means; it's up to you how you look at the world, your business and your life. I wonder if there's any coincidence in that Smilin' Steve Babbitt has sold over 1,500 homes? Just saying. So before we look at the unimaginable benefits of befriending local agents, let's consider the fact that the way you look at something, changes the thing you look at. In other words, our minds and our universe tend to help us live in a perpetual state of a self-fulfilling prophecies. If you see other agents as the enemy, as an immediate threat, well, then don't be surprised when they sneak in a business card to your best friend. If that's how you see it, that's how it will play out.

Now enter Mr. Babbitt, Stage Left. Here's a guy who understands the power of networking with other agents. Forget the Facebook stats--this guy has served on more committees and boards than I can rattle off in one blog post. Here's a couple very powerful facts that Steve ran off that may change your "Other Agent Attitude."

First, agents like to do business with agents they like. As Steve said, "It's human nature." So two offers come in and you know and like one agent, and the other has a reputation for being an open-house-sign-stealer, who ya gonna call? I'm not trying to insinuate anyone would ever lead a seller toward a lesser offer, but that indeed, all things being equal, the agent will lean toward the agent he or she knows and likes, and might even express this to the seller. "Mr. Seller, these two offers are pretty similar. One thing I can tell you is that Agent Steve is an ethical agent who I've worked with before and he runs a clean deal."

Second, and these are in no particular order, I think ActiveRain has done a great job of demonstrating the deep down desire and longing for community belonging. Clearly, having others to share with and learn from is priceless, and those out of town referrals sure the heck never hurt anyone either. So why not local too? While the referrals might not be as frequent (but I have referred a commercial deal to a local agent and a listing too far away to another agent in my office), but what about the brainstorming and masterminding? Steve mentioned the all too sad fact that even if you had the best idea in the world, how many people do you think would really implement it? Not many. What about forming a partnership with someone in your office for just one farm area? You could share mailing costs and hit the streets together. It's much more fun to walk a neighborhood with a friend, trust me.

Third, and this is something Steve alluded to that I'd never even thought of (imagine that). If an agent who is held in high-esteem is at a listing appointment, why not incorporate the FACT that he/she is well thought of by  fellow agents,,,,then talk about the First fact above. "Mrs. Seller, agents like to work with agents they know are honest, ethical and fair, and, they like to show properties listed by those same kind of agents. I think if you ask around, check my involvement with our local association, you will find that I am one of those agents who is highly respected in this town."

Those are just three good ideas, but I bet you can think of more. Like, for instance, long-lasting friendships, getting voted into leadership with your local, state or national association, and then, there's that whole good karma thing I'm so big on. The idea is not to immediately eliminate "The Other Agent Attitude" but instead adopt an attitude of gratitude that you are in an industry with so many people willing to help and befriend you. It's called "Creative Collaboration" not competition. And any competing should be be done in the spirit of fun...there really is plenty to go around...we just have to go get it.

The deals fall to him (or her) who attract them through proper mind-set and attitude, CONSISTENT, POSITIVE ACTION, and good old fashion competency. So don't be a secret agent. Don't sit and whine about the market. Get together with some fellow agents and have coffee and mastermind...add agent friends on Facebook, and go to an association function every now and then. Be the agent with the right attitude, and watch the good time roll.

 Listen to Steve: 

Thanks!

Tamara