I began my real estate career in 2005. I have always been pleased with how my business was doing, until mid to late 2008. Knowing that a few of years in the biz doesn't sound like much, let me say that I did better than I had anticipated, therefore I was happy.
Joining the ranks of many, (I won't go into too much detail,) I started feeling the blues. Even though I know veteran agents felt a decrease in their business, I started mentally beating myself up because my numbers had dropped. Did this help my transactions? Absolutely not. Did I have faith in myself? No. Could sellers and buyers put their faith in me as an agent? Well, yes, but I wan't exactly a magnet for buyers and sellers during this time. I am so happy I QUIT moping and started marketing myself a little differently.
I got out in the community and visited the locals at their place of employment, where they dined, in their subdivisions. The door was open for me to meet and greet because I changed companies, and I wanted to introduce myself and our new office to the masses. What I found was that most people I met were eager to hear from me. They wanted to ask questions about the local market. They wondered why I was upbeat, (generally I am an upbeat person.) I visually sensed that almost everyone I spoke with wanted to hear some "good news" about the housing market. I also discovered if I looked for something positive in the local market, I found it. And I shared it. Plus, I felt great doing it. I didn't feel discouraged anymore, I felt optimistic. This little boost in my mood, and most likely the fact that I got out and did some real leg work, has really made a difference in my career, too. I am busy again showing houses. I have new buyer clients, I met new mortgage brokers, found new resources and got new leads.
I didn't pass out my business card either. I think this made a difference. Because no one turned down my "postcard". All I did was approach people with it, introduce myself and tell them I had joined this company and they were invited to drop by the office for coffee and a donut before going to work or school one morning. And this little offer ignited conversation, took people by surprise, and actually seemed to spread some cheer. Since I just visited a few offices and subdivisions each day, I didn't have to buy a lot of donuts, either. I did this for a few weeks, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, between the hours of 11-1:pm, so I could catch people coming and going.
I see the silver lining, folks. We are it. I know this isn't a new approach, but for me, it was something "new" and encouraging. We actually had people drop by the office. Plus, as I mentioned earlier, I am busy again showing houses.
I believe consumers want to hear some "good news", and I believe they like to receive a "gift". And for those who didn't drink coffee or eat donuts, they still smiled and seemed impressed, and I bet they will remember the offer for a little while. Hey, I am already thinking about what the next little enticement will be.
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