Spring has just recently sprung, but wherever you go, you can count on it being a bit cold and blustery right now — not the actual temperature, but the temperament. Sadly, it feels like civility is in short supply, whether it’s in regards to politics, social media, entertainment or business.
Real estate is a people business. Perhaps it’s no mistake that the most successful people in the business also happen to be nice. Think about the real estate leaders you admire most. Did they get to where they are because they treat people unkindly? Probably not. Some people might claw their way towards the top, but they are rarely respected or considered true leaders.
Watch the best of the best in action and you’ll see the following traits:
Positivity
While you don’t need to attack each and every day like an over-caffeinated motivational speaker, a little positivity goes a long way. People gravitate towards upbeat people; said people include co-workers, social media followers and potential clients.
Some days are easier than others in terms of staying cheery, but making a conscious effort to put good out in the world usually has a boomerang effect. Whether it is water cooler chit-chat or a social media post, ask yourself if what you are saying makes the environment healthy or toxic.
Thoughtfulness
Leverage the power of social media to make yourself more thoughtful. Many people display their birth date on their profile; add these dates to your calendar each month and send an email, not just a post on their “wall.” Go ahead and blow their minds, send an actual card.
Keep your eyes peeled for achievements and happy news. Recognizing that promotion at work or baby on the way certainly creates good will, and it could also lead to a real estate transaction — reach out and congratulate your contacts.
Gratitude
Giving credit where credit is due seems like a good rule of thumb; why not take it up a notch? If someone in your office has helped you, send an email to his or her supervisor. That type of feedback tends to bring out the best in people and is often what leads to promotions and pay bumps.
Next time you are at the coffee shop buy a handful of $5.00 gift cards to keep readily available. Make some note cards that say “Thanks a Latte,” and give them to people who make your day better. Sure, it’s kind of cheesy, but starting the day with a free cup of coffee is always a perk.
This kind of thinking inspired Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® to create a new staff recognition program, a peer-to-peer acknowledgement of those who demonstrate the values that define our culture. Recognizing those who personify the traits we value has created an even kinder environment throughout the company, with a ripple effect that is felt by our members and all those we serve.
Acknowledging the good in others creates a desirable climate around the workplace – as for elsewhere in the world, hope springs eternal.
Beth Kinsella is the Member Solutions Manager with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.
For more information visit www.LeadingRE.com.
