Who Knows What You Do and Where You've Been?

Hi Keisha,

I'm happy to hear that you came up with a solution, rather than become paralyzed.  It is much easier to work with people you know that will refer you to others...I see much success in your future. 

The question always is, did they not know, or did they forget? Will re-using materials do the trick, or should you do some major rewriting?

The other truth is people don't remember half of what they read. Your performance should always speak volumes above and beyond your experience, education and testimonials. If you do what you say you will do, clients will be impressed.

But good post, Keisha -- because many agents forget they had a life before being a real estate agent. I've been in real estate all my life (well, since 1974), but I've also held dozens of other positions during my tenure, some of which I forget to share as well. Part of the reason I don't is because people can't believe I work 20 hours a day, which is enough time, actually, to hold 3 separate jobs. I multi-task all the time, but real estate is and always has been my passion and center. I think if you can show clients how your past experience blends in with your new career, you're on the right track.

I find it VERY difficult to promote myself well.  All too often I feel like I'm bragging, even though I'm not.  Frankly I just don't like blowing my own horn.

The fact of the matter is if we don't do it, nobody else will do it for us.

I prefer to keep my past accomplishments low key.  It's a business decision.  I think it would look a bit strange to put my Ph.D. on my business card as it has little relevance to real estate and would get people wondering what am I doing in this profession?  My research skills and my background in psychology and work with Fortune 500 companies as a consultant adds a lot of value to my real estate work, but it's too hard to explain that, so I just focus on my track record in real estate and in what ways I add value in marketing their home.

Absolutely...we owe it to the public to keep them properly informed.

Good post, Thanks, take care and good luck to you!

I too find it difficult to sell myself, so I stick to listening people to see what thier needs are. Then I can hopefully make them feel comfortable with the knowledge I have to share.

If they want to know my background, then I will tell them, it's no secret.

Am I doing it backwards?

Lately I feel like this is all I have been doing!  I have been trying to create as many ways as possible at getting in touch with people and subtlely asking for their referrals!  In this business you have to keep your face in front of as many people as you possibly can as much as you possibly can!