Agent Mastermind Groups are a critical part of our culture here at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate. Implementing Mastermind Groups sets an example for the entire organization that we expect agents to help each other and share what is successful in their businesses. We fully understand that we’re all commissioned agents and competing independent contractors against each other, but when we adopt an attitude of abundance and openly share, encourage and believe in one another, we know the best is yet ahead. When we embrace change and risk together, everyone in the group grows, and we gain marketshare from our competitors.
Mastermind Groups are comprised of 12 – 15 agents, at similar volume levels, that meet monthly for an hour and a half. Meetings are arranged at an offsite location to minimize work distractions and other responsibilities. We cover a plethora of real estate-related information and topics, such as experiences of struggle and success, role-playing, accountability partners, networking, new technology, goal-setting, and, most importantly, learning.
Meetings begin with a round robin, where each person describes what they’re seeing in the current market and shares one task they’re focusing on to grow their business.
For the second half of the meeting, two agents present on a previously assigned topic that was mutually agreed upon by the group. Presenters enlighten us as to what they’re doing in regard to that subject matter and highlight trends in different parts of the country. On a couple occasions, we’ve called in an expert on bookkeeping, taxes, social media and prospecting to give us new ideas and information.
We also have fun by promoting friendly competition through contests among the group for most listings, sales volume, referrals, etc. One Mastermind Group recently held a successful client appreciation party at the Omaha College World Series. Events like this encourage everyone to put the team first, bond with one another, and ultimately, boost productivity.
It’s important to make clear to the agents that the Mastermind Groups are a true commitment. Activities, appointments, showings, sporting events, etc., must be planned around this time. This expectation must be set early on, and it’s best done by leadership. It’s imperative to have a manager, trainer, or broker consistently present to keep the meeting focused, otherwise it becomes “show and tell” time. I’m there to ask questions, guide discussion and push people out of their comfort zones.
As the broker, I plan my schedule around these meetings for three reasons:
- Connect: It helps me stay in touch with the current market and my agents’ needs.
- Communicate: It provides a monthly opportunity for agents to meet with me in a small group setting.
- Coaching: As iron sharpens iron, so does one sharpen another; therefore, I continually grow and become a better coach.
The bottom line is, together, everyone achieves more. We love this prioritized commitment to our company, completely embracing the belief that although we’re competitors on the field, working together is only going to benefit us all in the end. The dedication and accountability within these Mastermind Groups truly adds to our success and boosts our culture at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate.
Vince Leisey is the president of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate, www.bhhsamb.com. Email Vince with your comments at vince.leisey@bhhsamb.com.
