Talking to Everyone Is Good Business!

Michelle, 

You are very welcome, usually when we step outside of our comfort zone, people actually appreciate it, it's becoming a very impersonal world, and people long for a connection!

Tammie,

You are always right, and so many times I think we underestimate the desire others have to help provide value to others.  So if they know what we do and we know what they do, a lot of times we can refer business to each other, and the world is a better place by far!

Joan, 

That is a great practice!  I bet your business grows a great deal from that type of consistency!

Gita,

What I have found is that if you start with giving some very valuable tips that help them and then explain the years of experience that has given you the authority to be able to provide that kind of value, that they will really appreciate it!

Angelica,

It's kind of funny because I had three other people ask me for cards while I was standing there too! The paint and flooring sections are really good because people slow down and are taking their time to make selections and often want advice.

Bill & MaryAnn,

That is so true, so often we are rushing through our day and missing all kinds of opportunities!

Kat,

I just said, "I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to listen in, but couldn't help but overhearing...I'm in the industry and have noticed...insert a few helpful ideas."  The husband then started asking me all kinds of ideas!  It was a lot of fun.  Once you have done it a few times and had positive results it becomes easier!

Michael, 

I will keep you all posted, and do a follow up blog on it so you will know!

Ron, 

A name badge probably is a good thing, and I've seen a lot of realtors get the magnetic signs for their vehicles or even wraps at times, I bet those work well also.

Jeffrey, 

That's true, and it's embarassing when people ask for one and you don't have one.  Makes it a little harder to be taken seriously.

Silvia, 

I agree, and I think that if they can tell you sincerely want to help and are not just looking for business then it really feels almost natural.

Ed and Tracy, 

Thank you very much, and thanks for taking the time to read the blog and for all the contributions you make here on Active Rain!

Richie, 

You hit the nail on the head, definitely a lot of interest in real estate across the country.  Many people who have wanted to sell for 5 or 6 years but couldn't now can!  Great time to be in the industry!

Wayne and Jean, 

It sounds as though you are out meeting people and are in the public eye instead of sitting behind a desk pushing paperwork, which probably explains a lot of your success!

Jane, 

Thank you!  It was a blessing, and sometimes I feel we are put at the right place at the right time so that we can help people!  By the way, I enjoyed reading your blog earlier today on home inspections!

Marc, 

I think your point underscores the value of having relationships with the people at the hardware stores, and of perhaps spending a little more time there, lol!

Praful,

Hopefully more agents these days see themselves as valued consultants, and you are right that requires great listening skills, as well as communication skills.  People who feel listened to naturally appreciate you more, so that's a great way to make them feel comfortable with you for sure!

Christine, 

Open ended questions are a great way to follow Praful's advice and make sure that we do a better job listening!

Alex,

That's a great point, because the contacts we make should turn into friends which provides even more value, and potential for further referrals.  Thank you for that insight!