The Platinum Rule
The Platinum Rule
At the February Rising Realtor luncheon one panelist said they answer every phone call immediately. When they are on a listing appointment, or with a buyer, if the phone rings, they answer the call. How do you feel about that?
The moderator asked the audience how they felt. Half agreed that the calls should be taken, while the other half felt the calls could wait. The wonderful thing about the real estate business is that there are seldom correct answers that fit every situation.
Personally, if I were a seller, interviewing several agents to list my property, and one agent took several calls while I waited; that agent would not receive my listing. To be honest, I might ask that agent to leave my house, if I was in a good mood. If I were in a bad mood, I would ask the agent to leave, and shove the phone “where the sun doesn’t shine”!
But, I’m a baby boomer. I’m not addicted to instant messaging. Nor, am I tolerant of those that are, while in my presence. I’m a ‘D’ in the disc profiling system. That means my time is of the essence. That means I want the bottom line, and I want it fast, without any interruptions.
The point I’m making is there is a big difference between the golden rule and the platinum rule. The golden rule says, ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you’. The platinum rule says, ‘Do unto others as they desire’.
People want it their way. Whether you are making a hamburger, or a listing call, be sensitive to the client’s preferences. Realize that there are generational & cultural differences. Be aware that different personalities have different expectations. If in doubt, ask! “Mr. Seller, do you mind if I take this call?” If the seller gives you the one finger peace sign, that is not a buying sign!
