Going the Extra Mile by Talking on the Phone

Leanne Smith,

Although I use my phone often, texts and emails are great for saving time on various tasks. However, reaching out and making genuine connections will always be valuable.

I hate texting unless it's for short appropriate situations - i.e. I am at the building early- the entrance is around the corner on the cross st rather than the avenue.

For signficant aspects- email is great for some situations- but not others and the phone for longer conversations that might be needed. I think the best agents in my market knows when to use each form of communication.

Thanks for this insightful post, Leanne Smith! You’ve nailed the importance of authentic communication in our tech-driven world. Here’s to picking up the phone and making those real connections—it really can make all the difference!

There should be boundaries with any type of communication devices - especially phones.  Being available "24/7" is impractical, and a waste of valuable productive time.  As a professional property manager and investor consultant, email is by far the best tool, as it can be done when the party is prepared and has the time to formulate the message, can be responded to at any time, and it tracks the information for future reference.  if a phone call (or Zoom, or any other type of direct communication) needs to occur, an appointment can be made through any number of calendar apps that ought to be part of your tech-stack.  Like anything else, the phone is a tool, and should be used at the appropriate time.

Good evening Leanne,

I agree going the extra mile and pick up the phone works wonders. Another way is to see them personally. I went to my sellers house this evening to get a price reduction..it was best done in person and in 20 minutes I had it secured!

Hi Leanne- I agree!!! I love and use texts for quick responses or questions or when I know the other person is better reached this way. But a phone call...better yet an in-person conversation is the gold standard of communicating. 

Yes, actually speaking to someone, whether it's on the phone or in person, can help grow a relationship and can help clarify issues. A lot of good information can get lost with the written word.

Hello Leanne - I appreciate the comment made by Jim Smith in this thread.  Phones and even two tin cans are communication devices.  Using any tool effectively is a success.   "Lots" to consider.  

I guess I am old school as well. I am not a fan of texting what needs to be discussed. 

Too many rapid-fire text messages by someone who is vomiting their thoughts and feelings in the moment, drive me bonkers.  There is a need to set healthy boundaries with people who misuse texting in such a way.

Hi Leanne,

Like many non-native Americans, I often had to consider the best way to communicate with clients carefully. Cell phones were reserved strictly for emergencies, while email served as the primary mode of communication. Texting was rarely used.

Language barriers sometimes made it challenging to ensure clarity during phone conversations. I have never been much of a phone person.

I do still prefer really talking to others. You can hear voice inflections, tone, and emotions.

Many times one can notice that the other party did not really understand all that was said.  And on a phone conversation it is easier to have someone respond they need more clarification.  I have noticed with a couple of agents recently that they have replied with what I consider incomplete answers.  What did you really mean as we are in a sales contract option period  and your communication was not really clear. So while not always crazy about a phone conversation when it is late in the day, sometimes that is the best way to make sure all are on the same page.  So I do agree with you.  But have been trained to always follow up with an email detailing the conversation.