Last week we looked at “The Magnificent Seven” of Resolving Conflicts Don’ts
Do’s. This week will be the Destructive Dozen.
YELLING – Few people respond well when you raise your voice loudly when
you are trying to communicate with them.
BLAMING – Verbally attacking someone else and making the focus of the
situation personal.
REACTING DEFENSIVELY - Makes the other person feel like a wall has been
erected between you.
FOCUS ON PERCEIVED INTENTIONS – Can lead you to making assumptions
that prevent you from seeing people’s actions.
NOT DEALING WITH THE SITUATION – One of the more common behaviors
in conflict situations that generally leads to creating a worse situation
than the actual one.
MAKING SUBTLE DIGS AND SARCASTIC REMARKS – Comments that belittle
others and won’t help to solve the conflict.
COMPLAINING CONSTANTLY ABOUT THE SITUATION – Constant
complaining will cause others to tune you out.
ISSUING ULTIMATUMS – Will be received as harsh demands of threats and
may create animosity and defiance.
PUSHING HARDER AND HARDER FOR YOUR WAY – Lack of consideration
for the other person’s view may make you less persuasive.
SENDING FLAMING E-MAILS MESSAGES – Telling other about your concern
can generally sound like you’re complaining or degrading that person; is
great for stimulating rumorsand stirring plenty of negative energy.
Conflicts are a part of our professional and personal lives. Take the
time to learn howresolve the conflicts … it is time well spent.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - Leadership Orientation with Caroline Sutherlin
Leadership Orientation
What a great time was had by all at the Texas State Chapter Leadership
Orientation last week! The setting was beautiful, the networking
outstanding and the education empowering…
One of our past state presidents, Carolyn Sutherlin, discussed with the 2010
state officers the “Resolving Conflicts Don’ts and Do’s”. These tips would
be useful in all of our relationships…. let's start with the "Do's".
THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN
GO TO THE SOURCE – Face-to-face interaction is best for resolving
disputes and conflicts. E-mail can’t do it; neither can voice mail
STAY IN CONTROL – The toughest job you have to do is
manage yourself.
STAY FOCUSED ON THE ISSUES – Ability to listen and understand
the other person’s point of view will positively influence the outcomes.
BE STRAIGHT AND SINCERE - Need to be direct, respectful in
your tone and constructive in your use of language.
GO FOR SOLUTIONS – Entire emphasis needs to be solutions-oriented,
so that the end result creates an improvement, corrects an error, or makes
things better than they were in their previous state.
ASSUME THE OTHER PERSON MEANS WELL – Takes your focus
away from what you perceive someone intended and places it on the
actions you see.
Next week, we will look at the "Don'ts"....
What a great time was had by all at the Texas State Chapter Leadership
Orientation last week! The setting was beautiful, the networking
outstanding and the education empowering…
One of our past state presidents, Carolyn Sutherlin, discussed with the 2010
state officers the “Resolving Conflicts Don’ts and Do’s”. These tips would
be useful in all of our relationships…. let's start with the "Do's".
THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN
GO TO THE SOURCE – Face-to-face interaction is best for resolving
disputes and conflicts. E-mail can’t do it; neither can voice mail
STAY IN CONTROL – The toughest job you have to do is
manage yourself.
STAY FOCUSED ON THE ISSUES – Ability to listen and understand
the other person’s point of view will positively influence the outcomes.
BE STRAIGHT AND SINCERE - Need to be direct, respectful in
your tone and constructive in your use of language.
GO FOR SOLUTIONS – Entire emphasis needs to be solutions-oriented,
so that the end result creates an improvement, corrects an error, or makes
things better than they were in their previous state.
ASSUME THE OTHER PERSON MEANS WELL – Takes your focus
away from what you perceive someone intended and places it on the
actions you see.
Next week, we will look at the "Don'ts"....
Monday, October 5, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "Your Golden Rolodex" - Week 4
How quickly the time passes when you are having fun or doing the things that you enjoy! It is time to finish Your Golden Rolodex: How to Network for Results! by Vicki Austin with a few last comments. Hopefully you have learned something new or been reminded ofsomething that has worked in the past.
As to social networking, the author loves technology and realizes the importance to staycurrent and to know what is available BUT technology needs to serve us….not the other way around. Building relationships are best done face-to-face with frequent connections.There is nothing casual about networking. You need to schedule time to make calls. Once an appointment is made, schedule in your calendar, confirm and keep your appointment.
Prepare for your appointment..
1. Know your audience – Use search engines to learn about the individual andcompany. Ask others in your GR about the person
2. Prepare questions – your job is to ensure that the networking conversationstays active.
3. Referrals are the very LAST thing to come up.If all goes according to schedule, you may have more people and contacts thanyou know what to do with. Use ONE calendar, a contact grid and follow upchecklist to help manage the volume. Document each call/visit and highlightaction steps needed. Once an action is completed, remember to document thefollow up, too.
Never let the Golden Rolodex grow cold. Networking should be an integralpart of your routine. Stay connected by …
1. Joining & participating in professional associations or societies (WCR)
2. Continue with ongoing training and development in your field
3. Volunteer for projects as work or in the professional associations
4. Stay involved in alumni associations
5. Block 1 day a month/every two weeks/every week to have lunch or coffee withpeople in your Golden Rolodex to keep contacts strong
6. Read articles and journals. Share copies or clips with your contacts.
Posted by VaLois Hounsel
As to social networking, the author loves technology and realizes the importance to staycurrent and to know what is available BUT technology needs to serve us….not the other way around. Building relationships are best done face-to-face with frequent connections.There is nothing casual about networking. You need to schedule time to make calls. Once an appointment is made, schedule in your calendar, confirm and keep your appointment.
Prepare for your appointment..
1. Know your audience – Use search engines to learn about the individual andcompany. Ask others in your GR about the person
2. Prepare questions – your job is to ensure that the networking conversationstays active.
3. Referrals are the very LAST thing to come up.If all goes according to schedule, you may have more people and contacts thanyou know what to do with. Use ONE calendar, a contact grid and follow upchecklist to help manage the volume. Document each call/visit and highlightaction steps needed. Once an action is completed, remember to document thefollow up, too.
Never let the Golden Rolodex grow cold. Networking should be an integralpart of your routine. Stay connected by …
1. Joining & participating in professional associations or societies (WCR)
2. Continue with ongoing training and development in your field
3. Volunteer for projects as work or in the professional associations
4. Stay involved in alumni associations
5. Block 1 day a month/every two weeks/every week to have lunch or coffee withpeople in your Golden Rolodex to keep contacts strong
6. Read articles and journals. Share copies or clips with your contacts.
Posted by VaLois Hounsel
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "Your Golden Rolodex" - Week 3
Networking can be seen by some as “using” people but Vickie Austin in "Your
Golden Rolodex: How to Network for Results!" contends that everyone prefers
to do business with those that they know. The content of the book is a step-by
-step process of how to network. Last week we started the Networking Toolbox
with your Mission Statement and the Golden Rolodex. Let’s add a few more tools…
3. Your message: the 30 Second Commercial or Your Elevator Speech
It is important not to get “stuck” on your history. The objective is to hear what
others have to say and how they might be able to help YOU. A formula that has
worked for many of her clients:
Past + Present + desired Future (MISSION)
+ Request
(Time, Ideas, Opinions & Recommendations)
= Success
Keep the past factual, short and sweet. The present should also be brief with
the two sentences joined by the word “and”. The 30 Second Commercial is an
integral part of the campaign that needs to be practiced and refined.
4. The Request …. Remember that the most powerful request is to ask for
someone’s time. You are asking people to help you identify strategies to help
you accomplish your mission…making money is not the objective of your
MISSION statement. Make an appointment and keep it as a formal business
meeting. The ideas, recommendations, and opinions of the individual are your
goals. We know that everyone likes to be asked their opinion. By seeking their
help, we are including in them the process.
5. Time – Campaigns don’t happen by themselves….they require time and
attention. You need to incorporate the activities into your calendar.
6. Commitment – Networking is a way of life, not a onetime event. The Golden
Rolodex must be fed with regularity!
Until next week....
Golden Rolodex: How to Network for Results!" contends that everyone prefers
to do business with those that they know. The content of the book is a step-by
-step process of how to network. Last week we started the Networking Toolbox
with your Mission Statement and the Golden Rolodex. Let’s add a few more tools…
3. Your message: the 30 Second Commercial or Your Elevator Speech
It is important not to get “stuck” on your history. The objective is to hear what
others have to say and how they might be able to help YOU. A formula that has
worked for many of her clients:
Past + Present + desired Future (MISSION)
+ Request
(Time, Ideas, Opinions & Recommendations)
= Success
Keep the past factual, short and sweet. The present should also be brief with
the two sentences joined by the word “and”. The 30 Second Commercial is an
integral part of the campaign that needs to be practiced and refined.
4. The Request …. Remember that the most powerful request is to ask for
someone’s time. You are asking people to help you identify strategies to help
you accomplish your mission…making money is not the objective of your
MISSION statement. Make an appointment and keep it as a formal business
meeting. The ideas, recommendations, and opinions of the individual are your
goals. We know that everyone likes to be asked their opinion. By seeking their
help, we are including in them the process.
5. Time – Campaigns don’t happen by themselves….they require time and
attention. You need to incorporate the activities into your calendar.
6. Commitment – Networking is a way of life, not a onetime event. The Golden
Rolodex must be fed with regularity!
Until next week....
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "Your Golden Rolodex" Week 2
Last week, we discussed the need to network but yet it is certainly not everyone’s favorite activity. Vickie Austin, in The Golden Rolodex: How to Network for Results!, promotes the importance— the gold—that resides in your existing database without seeking new people as contacts.
Ms. Austin has created a Networking Toolbox to help you launch a communication campaign.
Your mission—create a mission statement, define your purpose and wanting to make a difference. A mission statement is very different from your business objectives. Missions statements usually contain verbs like “to help, contribute or create”. It is never about the money. Your mission is about service to others.
2) Your Golden Rolodex—the key is to identify everyone, set up a system where you can tap into that reserve of contacts. Her criteria for someone in the Golden Rolodex is most interesting.
a) First of all they must know your name. If you called or left word for, they would recognize your name or the name of the person who referred you to them
b. The most important is that they must be BREATHING!
Communities need to be established. Communities are a collection of people who share or have shared a particular time, place or experience. Possible communities are: work colleagues—past & present; alumni & associations; neighbors, professional/industry associations; sororities; individuals with the same hobbies; friends; family; parents of kids’ friends; house of faith, and one of the most important—personal/professional service providers like hairdressers, barber, attorney, etc.
Now that you have established the communities, integrate the information into ONE place. This might be Outlook, cell phone, PDA, Blackberry, Palm or online programs like Top Producer or ACT! It does not matter what you have as long as you keep it current. The entering of data is an ongoing job for you or your (virtual) assistant.
Until next week with the third installment..
Ms. Austin has created a Networking Toolbox to help you launch a communication campaign.
Your mission—create a mission statement, define your purpose and wanting to make a difference. A mission statement is very different from your business objectives. Missions statements usually contain verbs like “to help, contribute or create”. It is never about the money. Your mission is about service to others.
2) Your Golden Rolodex—the key is to identify everyone, set up a system where you can tap into that reserve of contacts. Her criteria for someone in the Golden Rolodex is most interesting.
a) First of all they must know your name. If you called or left word for, they would recognize your name or the name of the person who referred you to them
b. The most important is that they must be BREATHING!
Communities need to be established. Communities are a collection of people who share or have shared a particular time, place or experience. Possible communities are: work colleagues—past & present; alumni & associations; neighbors, professional/industry associations; sororities; individuals with the same hobbies; friends; family; parents of kids’ friends; house of faith, and one of the most important—personal/professional service providers like hairdressers, barber, attorney, etc.
Now that you have established the communities, integrate the information into ONE place. This might be Outlook, cell phone, PDA, Blackberry, Palm or online programs like Top Producer or ACT! It does not matter what you have as long as you keep it current. The entering of data is an ongoing job for you or your (virtual) assistant.
Until next week with the third installment..
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - Speaking & Presentation Skills - Leadership Skills Training
Thank you to Sharon Eddings, 2009 Texas State Secretary, for sharing the power point presentation from the Leadership Skills Training held in conjunction with the Marketing to Women Summit in Chicago this year.
The presentation shows you how to employ tips and techniques when in the spotlight, especially as a spokesperson; use protocol at meetings and events correctly and confidently; and find local resources to practice public speaking. Click here to view...
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "Your Golden Rolodex" Week 1 by Vickie Austin
I would like to share with you over the next few weeks the e-book "Your Golden Rolodex: How to Network for Results!" by Vickie Austin, one of the phenomenal women who presented several sessions at The Marketing to Women Summit in Chicago this year. She speaks to the importance of your current database –filled with gold - to develop your business.
“Your Golden Rolodex is based on the premise that in order to succeed, we must start by honoring the people we already know –a rich network of resources that’s typically ignored or misunderstood.
Networking is a communication campaign. Women are great at building relationships but lousy at generating results from them.
The Golden Rolodex focuses on the importance of identifying, connecting and keeping up with them in whatever style the person is comfortable and treating people in an authentic and respectful way.
A strong connection exists between networking and etiquette:
1. Return all phone calls
2. Make appropriate introductions – connecting people to each other in
business
3. Apologize – take responsibility for your actions
4. Say Thank You – if a connection resulted in actual business, send
something tangible - flowers, a favorite book, candy, or something
sweet with a card saying “Keep those referrals coming!”
Networking code learned at Sunday School : Do unto others as you would have
them do unto you.
Reciprocity is at the heart of effective networking”
Until next week's installment.... building a "Networking Toolbox"...
“Your Golden Rolodex is based on the premise that in order to succeed, we must start by honoring the people we already know –a rich network of resources that’s typically ignored or misunderstood.
Networking is a communication campaign. Women are great at building relationships but lousy at generating results from them.
The Golden Rolodex focuses on the importance of identifying, connecting and keeping up with them in whatever style the person is comfortable and treating people in an authentic and respectful way.
A strong connection exists between networking and etiquette:
1. Return all phone calls
2. Make appropriate introductions – connecting people to each other in
business
3. Apologize – take responsibility for your actions
4. Say Thank You – if a connection resulted in actual business, send
something tangible - flowers, a favorite book, candy, or something
sweet with a card saying “Keep those referrals coming!”
Networking code learned at Sunday School : Do unto others as you would have
them do unto you.
Reciprocity is at the heart of effective networking”
Until next week's installment.... building a "Networking Toolbox"...
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - Leadership Academy with Amy Chorew
Amy Chorew for many of us has become the “Digital Diva” or “Technology Guru” with her “Inspire – Train – Implement! approach to helping the Women’s Council members. She worked her magic once again at the Leadership Academy in Chicago early in August. Many thanks to Katy Hubener, the incoming LCP for the SW Dallas Chapter for sharing her newly gained knowledge with our chapter this month.At Leadership Academy, the class was introduced to the FLIP camera although any camera with a video option can be used . Instructions were given on how to create the video. The next step is to upload to YouTube, AOL Video, My Space. YouTube will give your video the most exposure or “eyeballs”. Once uploaded to YouTube, the embed code can be put on your blog or website.
Flip Subject Idea for REALTORS:
Frequently asked Questions
Walk-through of a previewed home with a specific buyer in mind (Commentary about their wishlist of features)
Virtual Tour with commentary
Unique happenings for a particular neighborhood
Final walkthroughs – especially if there are still problems
Testimonials
Welcome messages to new homeowner from nearby neighbors highlighting why they love the neighborhood (Put on a DVD for the neighbors, too - with your info, of course)
Driving tour of neighborhood, with commentary, for an out-of-town buyer
And the list goes on and on …..
We don’t have to wait until the next Women’s Council national meeting or summit in order to hear and learn more from Amy. She has a page on Facebook – The TechByte with Amy Chorew” and her website is www.amychorew.com The TechByte – Technology Strategies for Real Estate from Amy Chorew, Speaker, Coach. You can subscribe to her blog, sign up for monthly tips or hire her as a real estate coach.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "Die Broke" by Stephan Pollan
In "Die Broke", Stephan Pollan challenges readers to rethink their ideas of workplace, money, retirement, and inheritance. Most of us are rooted in thinking that's out of sync with the realities of today's economy. The "job" is not what it used to be--there's no such thing as corporate loyalty. Putting your own interests first, not your company's should be the standard. You should do your best at work, but make sure you're getting the best deal financially. If you're not, find another one. After all, it's only a job.
"Die Broke" is organized into two sections: the first lays out the principles for dying broke. The whole argument relies on these four maxims:
1. Quit today and work for yourself, not your company.
2. Pay cash, melt your credit cards, and don't even think about using your ATM card
3. Don't retire, retirement is a relatively new concept created during the Depression, instead plan to work all your life.
4. Die broke, after all, you can't take it with you.
The author is a financial and legal consultant and the specific instances in the second part are example from his own practice. The Chapters cover everything from "Automated Teller Machines and Cards" and "Umbrella Liability Insurance" to "Mortgage Loans" and "Real Estate Investment Trusts."
Many of us comply with two or three of the ideas. As realtors we work for ourselves with several owning their own company. This business does allow its members to work beyond the normal age of retirement. Ebby Halliday is 98 years old and still goes to work each day. As for myself, I never use an ATM card and basically pay cash…. one credit card that is paid off at the end of the month. As for maxim number four, I like the idea of spending my money on those that I love and for causes and organizations that spark my passions. So, let enjoy life together!
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
"Die Broke" is organized into two sections: the first lays out the principles for dying broke. The whole argument relies on these four maxims:
1. Quit today and work for yourself, not your company.
2. Pay cash, melt your credit cards, and don't even think about using your ATM card
3. Don't retire, retirement is a relatively new concept created during the Depression, instead plan to work all your life.
4. Die broke, after all, you can't take it with you.
The author is a financial and legal consultant and the specific instances in the second part are example from his own practice. The Chapters cover everything from "Automated Teller Machines and Cards" and "Umbrella Liability Insurance" to "Mortgage Loans" and "Real Estate Investment Trusts."
Many of us comply with two or three of the ideas. As realtors we work for ourselves with several owning their own company. This business does allow its members to work beyond the normal age of retirement. Ebby Halliday is 98 years old and still goes to work each day. As for myself, I never use an ATM card and basically pay cash…. one credit card that is paid off at the end of the month. As for maxim number four, I like the idea of spending my money on those that I love and for causes and organizations that spark my passions. So, let enjoy life together!
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
Monday, August 10, 2009
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz
Did you know that the National WCR website has a list of books that would make great reading? I discoved this treasure trove when I was the local chapter president. As a prolific reader, I decided to try out a few and found some real gems.
One of the first books I read from the list was The Four Agreements by Don Migue Ruiz, a shamanic teacher and healer who presents a simple yet effective code of personal conduct learned from his Toltec ancestors in Mexico.
As a young school girl living in Mexico City, at story time we heard stories, legends and myths about the ancient cultures. The pyramids outside Mexico City were the residence of the Toltecs, an ancient group of scientists and artists that was formed to explore and preserve the practices and spiritual knowledge of the ancient ones.
Ruiz was born into a Mexican family of traditional healers, became a surgeon in adulthood, then underwent a near-death experience that made his reexamine his life, his beliefs, Ruiz’s teachings focus on dreams and visions. “Dreaming” Ruiz argues, “is the main function of the mind. A series of four “agreements” are detailed, which make up a larger picture of unconditional human faith.
Be Impeccable With Your Word: Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
Don't Take Anything Personally: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering.
Don't Make Assumptions: Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
Always Do Your Best: Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
One of the first books I read from the list was The Four Agreements by Don Migue Ruiz, a shamanic teacher and healer who presents a simple yet effective code of personal conduct learned from his Toltec ancestors in Mexico.
As a young school girl living in Mexico City, at story time we heard stories, legends and myths about the ancient cultures. The pyramids outside Mexico City were the residence of the Toltecs, an ancient group of scientists and artists that was formed to explore and preserve the practices and spiritual knowledge of the ancient ones.
Ruiz was born into a Mexican family of traditional healers, became a surgeon in adulthood, then underwent a near-death experience that made his reexamine his life, his beliefs, Ruiz’s teachings focus on dreams and visions. “Dreaming” Ruiz argues, “is the main function of the mind. A series of four “agreements” are detailed, which make up a larger picture of unconditional human faith.
Be Impeccable With Your Word: Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
Don't Take Anything Personally: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering.
Don't Make Assumptions: Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
Always Do Your Best: Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "The Energy Bus" by Jon Gordon
For the next few weeks, I would like to review some excellent books that I have enjoyed. One of my favorites is The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. Many of us were fortunate to see Mr. Gordon in person last year at the TAR WCR Annual Conference in Orlando, FL. What a dynamic speaker and interesting approach to life!
The Energy Bus is a business fable with the protagonist, George, discovering a flat tire which forces him to take the bus. George meets a unique bus driver and an interesting cast of passengers that share the ten rules for the
ride of his life. The characters are amazing. These are people you would meet on the street (or a bus). These are people with whom you work and interact. These are REAL people doing REAL people things.
The book provides a clear road map to navigate the negativity and pitfalls that too often sabotage individual and team success. Jon Gordon shines a light on the truths that define great leaders, great teams, and great energy. Get on the bus and enjoy the ride.
10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy
1. You’re the Driver of the Bus.
2. Desire, Vision and Focus move your bus in the right direction.
3. Fuel your Ride with Positive Energy.
4. Invite People on Your Bus and Share your Vision for the Road Ahead.
5. Don’t Waste Your Energy on those who don’t get on your Bus.
6. Post a Sign that says “No Energy Vampires Allowed” on your Bus.
7. Enthusiasm attracts more Passengers and Energizes them during the Ride.
8. Love your Passengers.
9. Drive with Purpose.
10.Have Fun and Enjoy the Ride.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Techy Talk Tuesdays - 1800 555 TELL - Mobile Tricks
Learn how your can save yourself while not texting to find something... call the number and it sends it to you via your voice command. Watch the video to find out how.
Intro to 1800 555 TELL - Techy Talk Tuesdays Mobile Tricks Series from rosannahudson on Vimeo.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - Ebby Halliday, the First Lady of Real Estate
How fortunate we are in the North Texas area to have a Real Estate Icon living in our midst – Ebby Halliday, the first lady of Real Estate.
At a recent Dallas Chapter Business Resource Luncheon, Ebby Halliday spoke for a few minutes and signed copies of her book. As a former Ebby agent, I respectfully stood in line for a few minutes of conversation, a warm smile and a personalized autographed copy of her book.
Among the many reasons to admire this woman, I feel one of the best is her continued dedication to “educate women and give them an honest and professional way to earn a good living”. This hold true today as well as it did when she started her real estate firm.
The book is filled with pearls of wisdom that I wanted to share…
“Customer is always right. Winning an argument never won a sale. Always do what you promise and do it when you said you would.
Communicate well. Learn to speak well and dress in businesslike attire that reinforces your professional message.
Community service was a public relations tool for the individual agent and her firm. Serving on city councils, park boards, zoning board, committees and task forces of the YMCA, YWCA, United Fund, and Chamber of Commerce help to enhance the image of both the agent and the firm. “
"You want to know the secret of success?" Ebby has asked audiences across the country. "Make people feel that you are interested in them. Make them feel special. Make it real." Today she adds, "Don't smoke, don't drink, and never retire!"
Pick up a copy today at a local WCR chapter meeting or the book store. Be inspired and motivated!
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "The Magic of Twelve"
Thanks to Brenda Blakenship with Home Warranty of America for providing the “Magic of Twelve”. I know that we have heard the importance of keeping in touch many times but it never hurts to be reminded, especially in the difficult market that many are experiencing. I keep hearing and seeing signs of recovery and hopefully your area is rebounding.
By "touching" someone 12 times you ensure more success in your sales objective. Just once or twice allows you to be forgotten but "persistent persistence" is the key. Develop your own 12 touch program to encourage potential buyers to act and potential sellers to list their homes with you.
Here are some suggestions to help you "touch" your potential clients:
1. Utilize a Client follow-up program to share valuable homeowner tips.
2. Follow up every phone call with an e-mail.
3. When providing your business card, request contact information in return.
4. Send potential buyers news of great opportunities, programs and tips.
5. Send potential sellers news of sales successes with homes similar to their own.
6. Invite potential buyers to join your Facebook group and dialogue with them on a weekly basis - a simple wall post will keep you fresh in their mind.
7. Invite potential sellers to join your Facebook group and keep your listings updated with photos and visual tours. Let everyone know about your successes too!
8. Request a personal reference quote or letter from previous buyer/seller clients and provide to your potential clients.
9. Take time to send more personal, handwritten notes. Write some daily!
10. Provide your clients with useful information often by e-mailing to your database.
11-100. Use your personal skills and creativity to touch, touch, touch without pressure. Developing relationships will be the key to your success... and ultimately your success.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
By "touching" someone 12 times you ensure more success in your sales objective. Just once or twice allows you to be forgotten but "persistent persistence" is the key. Develop your own 12 touch program to encourage potential buyers to act and potential sellers to list their homes with you.
Here are some suggestions to help you "touch" your potential clients:
1. Utilize a Client follow-up program to share valuable homeowner tips.
2. Follow up every phone call with an e-mail.
3. When providing your business card, request contact information in return.
4. Send potential buyers news of great opportunities, programs and tips.
5. Send potential sellers news of sales successes with homes similar to their own.
6. Invite potential buyers to join your Facebook group and dialogue with them on a weekly basis - a simple wall post will keep you fresh in their mind.
7. Invite potential sellers to join your Facebook group and keep your listings updated with photos and visual tours. Let everyone know about your successes too!
8. Request a personal reference quote or letter from previous buyer/seller clients and provide to your potential clients.
9. Take time to send more personal, handwritten notes. Write some daily!
10. Provide your clients with useful information often by e-mailing to your database.
11-100. Use your personal skills and creativity to touch, touch, touch without pressure. Developing relationships will be the key to your success... and ultimately your success.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Savvy Saturday Session - "Success" with Becky Hill, 2009 WCR National President
The Dallas Metro East Chapter held a successful meeting the first day of July with a style show and visits from our two Texans – National President, Becky Hill and Texas State president, Sandra Hunt.
The highlight was the message that President Becky brought to us as food for thought. Would you like to be more successful as a realtor, in an organization, or on a personal level? What are the common traits that unite these diverse areas into one? She distills all the possibilities into “10 Characteristics of Highly Successful People”.
1) Be optimistic
2) Define purpose or destination
3) Work hard
4) Discipline – systems in place
5) Trust your intuition
6) Be a risk taker
7) Prolific reader
8. Strive for mastery
9) Expect the best – remain positive
10) Seek the help of others
How fortunate we are in Texas to the have the counsel, knowledge, and expertise of our WCR National President so readily available to us! President Becky has spoken to many of our local chapters this year and has plans for Collin County and Houston Chapters in the near future. Please join at the WCR/TAR Fall Meeting in Dallas, TX as she installs Deborah Spangler as the 2010 Texas State Chapter President.
Provided by VaLois Hounsel
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