For most of us who are REALTOR® Members, chances are, if we've never participated in our local, State, or National organizations, our familiarity with the REALTOR® Pledge is likely somewhat limited.
According to the NAR website, The REALTOR® Pledge (also known as the REALTOR® Oath) was originally written as the result of a contest held by the National Association of REALTORS® in 1954. The contest was intended to come up with a brief pledge for new members, emphasizing what it meant to be a REALTOR®, based on the Preamble to the Code of Ethics. The winning entry was written by Frank Cortright, a REALTOR® member from Berkeley, California.
The first line of this pledge/oath is as follows:
"To strive to be honorable and to abide by the Golden Rule"
Webster's offers some insight into what constitutes being honorable:
"deserving of respect or high regard; attesting to credible conduct; consistent with a reputation that is not tarnished or sullied; characterized by integrity."
What kind of reputation do you have in your specific market area?
Famous preacher D.L. Moody stated "If I take care of my character, my reputation will take care of itself." Abraham Lincoln is quoted as saying, "Character is like a tree, and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what others perceive, but the tree is the true substance."
The Golden Rule is commonly attributed to a Bible verse from the Gospel of Matthew:
"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Matthew 7:12
The way you conduct your business, and the manner in which you treat your clients, is a direct reflection on your core character.
A solid reputation takes years to build, but only moments to destroy.
What practical steps or actions are you taking today to cultivate a reputation of good standing, and demonstrate an honorable character?
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