Please Don't Tell Me How To Run My Business

I received a call a few weeks ago from an agent who was leaving another RE/MAX office.  This person wanted to know if I would cut them "a deal". As much as I dislike talking fees over the phone (whenever a conversation begins this way, it's usually not one I want to spend much time or effort on) I told the agent that I don't "cut deals" and explained the 3 desk fee plans I offer to Associates.

This agent then went on to try to educate me about the changing industry and asked if I was aware what other brokers were doing to get agents.....say what? 

Save your breath.

I have a model upon which my business is based. I have long & short term goals both of which allow me to make necessary adjustments in order to remain competitive,"open for business" and profitable.

Shocking isn't it?

Yes, I expect my business to make money.

It seems the word profit has become stigmatized in the wake of the economic downturn. Take the recent brew-ha-ha over the changes on Active Rain.

Buttons, badges, tags, fees (gasp!)

It is amazing to me that so many are put off by the idea that AR is trying to make money.

Has anyone stopped to think that by charging new members, the quality of content may improve? That we may see less agents jump in, create a profile, write one blog post and then leave? That we might begin to see a more focused group of professionals committed to creating quality content in order to reap results and provide greater value to AR members?

Perhaps by slowing the growth, the quality of the site itself will improve?

I look at it this way, I won't hire just any Tom, Dick or Harriot to work at my office. I believe in being more selective because in the long term it's more beneficial, and yes.....profitable.

There are other brokerages who are into quantity, but I'm more about quality.

I could change that, but I don't have to.

I own the business.