What comes to mind when you think of the word “charisma?” For me, I think of those outgoing people who always seem to say the right thing, have tons of energy and are always toting a huge grin. (I imagine them breaking into a broadway style song and dance at any moment.) They seem to be successful at everything they do and can easily win over a crowd of people in no time. I’m sure as real estate agents you’ve found these charismatic people in the industry and these “super agents” tend to be your highest competition.
So, would it surprise you to know that you can learn to be a remarkably charismatic person? While to some people, having this personality is natural, there are certain habits that you can adopt no matter what your personality that will draw people to you.
The definition of charismatic is: exercising a charm that inspires devotion in others.
You don’t have to be loud, highly energetic or overly talkative. You just need to let people know you genuinely care about them and make them feel good about themselves. Wouldn’t we all be drawn to people like that?
Recently, business and technology columnist Jeff Haden pointed out 10 habits of charismatic people. Here are just a few that I thought were imperative for real estate agents. Take a look!
1. They listen way more than they talk.
Ask questions. Maintain eye contact. Smile. Frown. Nod. Respond--not so much verbally, but nonverbally. That's all it takes to show the other person they're important. Only speak when you have something important to say--and always define important as what matters to the other person, not to you.
2. They put their stuff away.
Don't check your phone. Don't glance at your monitor. Don't focus on anything else, even for a moment. Give the gift of your full attention. That's a gift few people give. That gift alone will make others want to be around you and remember you.
3. They give before they receive--and often they never receive.
Never think about what you can get. Focus on what you can provide. Giving is the only way to establish a real connection and relationship.
4. They don’t act self important because they realize other people are more important.
You already know what you know. You know your opinions. You know your perspectives and points of view. But you don't know what other people know, and everyone, no matter who they are, knows things you don't know. The minute you act more important than others; you lose your audience.
5. They shine the spotlight on others.
No one receives enough praise. No one. If you work with a team of people, tell others what they did well. Not only will people appreciate your praise, they'll appreciate the fact you care enough to pay attention to what they're doing. Then they'll feel a little more accomplished and a lot more important.
Think of how your current and potential clients, or even co-workers, will respond if you began practicing these habits. You may already be doing some of them, but it’s always good to be reminded of ways we can better ourselves and make others around us feel better about themselves.
You’ll find those around you will feel more drawn to be loyal clients, work harder as co-workers and all will be rooting for your success. Of course these actions need to be genuine, and your end goal shouldn’t be your success, but the well being of those around you.
Tapping into charismatic habits, no matter what your personality, will give you a better outlook on others and your work. (No song and dance required.)
Allie Coyle
Blogging & Copywriting Specialist
