Do you have a strategy for talking with your clients? Are you REACTING or are you in control?
One question I like to ask my sellers is, "What is the best way for me to communicate with you?" You'd be surprised by the answers. Some don't have unlimited texting plans, so they get charged when I text them. (Good info to know so they don't DREAD my expensive messages). What a great example for me trying to keep them in the loop but actually does the opposite by cultivating animosity.
"I have six kids OR work weird hours and don't check my voicemail until evening." Also good to know when that offer comes in.
"I prefer to meet face-to-face." These guys are cool... a stiff hand shake and their word is gold. Look me in the eye and then let me tell them how it is. People of character and don't get bogged down with impersonal technology. My experience is that when you take the time to meet with these guys once a week or so for updates, it will be a GOOD thing. Encourage them to take care of the small stuff the new-fashioned way, but keep that bond.
"Jay, just SELL MY HOUSE." These are interesting people. They see me as a means to an end and not a "team" and they aren't interested in a relationship. They want money NOW for their home and just call them when the offer is in. OK, fine. Just know that going in to the deal that your calls may not get returned and they are very concerned with the bottom line. Results are THEIR focus, so keep YOUR focus.
The point is, ASK HOW THEY WANT TO BE COMMUNICATED WITH, not how I want to communicate with them. Then we become consultants focused on serving THEIR needs and the game changes.
Have you ever had a communication nightmare or super-success? I'd love to hear about it!
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