Would you agree that Integrity is our most valuable asset? Success comes and goes, but having Integrity remains forever. Having Integrity means that we do the ‘right thing’, whether we are being watched or not. It seems that on the Active Rain Real Estate Network, we see Integrity being key in our posts. It sets us apart from other blogs and groups and makes us better people. Integrity takes years to build and can be lost within seconds. Without Integrity, it doesn’t matter how much experience or knowledge we have. Here are four thoughts about Integrity:
1) Building trust
All personal and business relationships are built on trust. To become trustworthy, you must be respectful and fair while delivering on your promises. Trust enhances openness and allows others to express their views and opinions without fear of intimidation or rejection. Through trust, we can ensure that we (and our brands) stay ahead of the competition. Trust increases our connection and level of engagement with clients and our communities. Trust and Integrity are intertwined. People use the presence or absence of Integrity to determine if trust is warranted. All relationships will eventually proceed or stop depending on the level of trust and Integrity in them.
2) Reputation
Reputation is widely associated with business. A high reputation attracts more clients while a low reputation is seen as unfavorable and hinders business. If you act with Integrity, you build and enhance trusting relationships. Customers love associating with trustworthy people who are known for delivering quality services. A person looking to buy or sell a house will feel better using a reliable and trusted real estate professional. For me and my team, we call this ‘The Golden Experience’.
3) Raising the Bar
Integrity not only makes a business grow; it raises the general standards by which we, as real estate professionals, operate. We often hear that this is lacking in our industry, but through Integrity, the services that we deliver and our clients’ experience in the transaction will provide us with the respect we want, repeat business, referrals, clients that we enjoy working with and financial success! Also, clients are satisfied paying our commission because they feel that they are receiving top quality services along with Integrity for the best value. It sets us apart.
4) Client loyalty
I think it’s a fact that having Integrity in business is essential for client loyalty and the growth of our businesses. Unfortunately, Integrity doesn’t develop in us (or our businesses) automatically. It has to be learned and cultivated. But the payoff to ourselves, family, friends, associates, clients and communities is ‘Golden’!
