Market Health: Kansas City has a Market Value Index (39), suggesting a more seller-friendly market compared to Philadelphia’s Market Action Index of 33 (Closer to a balanced market).
Home Prices: Philadelphia has a higher median list price ($259,900), indicating that homes there cost $24,000 more than in Kansas City ($235,000).
Speed of Sales: While Kansas City homes sell slightly faster at 84 days compared to Philadelphia’s 98, the 14 day difference is relatively minor.
Inventory: Philadelphia has a significantly larger inventory of homes for sale (2000) compared to Kansas City (1010). This gives buyers in Philadelphia more options.
The Verdict:
While Kansas City still has a slightly stronger seller’s market and marginally faster sales, the key differentiator is now the sheer volume of inventory in Philadelphia. Philadelphia offers buyers a much wider selection of homes.
How this translates to the football field is anyone’s guess! It’s a fun way to compare the two cities beyond their football teams.
In today’s digital age, we’re bombarded with information from countless sources. Social media feeds, news websites, and online forums overflow with claims and counterclaims, making it increasingly difficult to discern fact from fiction. This constant influx of information, coupled with the rise of “fake news” and deliberate disinformation campaigns, necessitates a critical approach to consuming and sharing information.
As I emphasized a few months back, asking the simple question:
“How do you know that to be true?”
can be a powerful tool in navigating this complex landscape. A simple question, encourages us to move beyond passive consumption and engage in active inquiry, challenging assumptions and seeking evidence.
The 7 Steps to Truth-Seeking
Developing a discerning eye requires a systematic approach. Here’s a 7-step model I’ve found invaluable in evaluating information:
Identify the Author: Who created this content? Are they an expert on the topic? Do they have a known bias or agenda? Understanding the source can provide valuable context.
Go Beyond the Headline: Headlines are often designed to be attention-grabbing, not necessarily accurate. Read the full article or post before forming an opinion.
Check the Date: Information can become outdated quickly. Is this information current and relevant?
Assess the Source: Is the source reputable? Is it known for accuracy and objectivity? Be wary of websites or publications with a history of bias or misinformation.
Examine the Supporting Evidence: Does the information cite credible sources? Are the claims backed up by facts and data? Look for primary sources whenever possible.
Turn to Fact-Checkers: Utilize reputable fact-checking websites like Snopes, PolitiFact, and FactCheck.org to verify claims.
Check Your Own Biases: We all have biases that can influence how we interpret information. Be aware of your own biases and be willing to challenge your own assumptions.
The Responsibility of Truth
We all have a responsibility to be critical consumers and sharers of information. By applying these steps and asking the right questions, we can contribute to a more informed and truthful public discourse.
Civil Debate: The Path to Understanding
In an era of polarization, it’s easy to resort to personal attacks and inflammatory rhetoric. But if we truly believe in positive intent, we must strive for civil debate. This means being respectful of others, even when we disagree with their views. It means focusing on the ideas, not the people.
As the saying goes, “Iron sharpens iron.” Through respectful debate, we can challenge our own beliefs, learn from others, and arrive at a deeper understanding of complex issues.
Truth Prevails
Despite the challenges of misinformation and disinformation, I believe that truth ultimately prevails. It may take time, but facts and evidence eventually come to light. By embracing critical thinking, engaging in civil discourse, and upholding the value of truth, we can create a more informed and just society.
Win the day by seeking truth, embracing critical thinking, and engaging in respectful dialogue.
In the competitive real estate sales environment, building strong client relationships is paramount. It’s not just about closing deals; it’s about becoming a trusted advisor. Here are five key steps to quickly build rapport and showcase the value of your professional real estate services.
1. Personalized Greeting and Genuine Interest:
First impressions matter. Ditch the generic greeting and show genuine interest from the start.
Rapport: Use the client’s name and mention something specific you know about them (e.g., “I saw you were interested in properties with a large backyard,” or “I understand you’re relocating from out of state”). This demonstrates you’ve done your homework and value them as individuals.
Value: Briefly acknowledge their needs and express your understanding. Example: “I understand finding the right home for your family is a top priority, and I’m here to make that process as smooth as possible.”
2. Ask Strategic Questions (Listen More Than You Talk):
Active listening is crucial. Focus on understanding their needs, motivations, and concerns.
Rapport: Ask open-ended questions and listen empathetically. Don’t interrupt. Reflect back what they’ve said to confirm your understanding. Example: “So, if I understand correctly, you’re looking for a home in [area] with at least three bedrooms and a budget of around [price range]. Is that right?”
Value: Strategic questioning demonstrates genuine care and allows you to tailor your services to their specific needs, showcasing your expertise.
3. Share Relevant Insights and Expertise:
Once you understand their needs, share valuable insights.
Rapport: Offer relevant market data, neighborhood information, or advice on the buying/selling process. Avoid jargon and explain things clearly.
Value: Providing valuable information upfront positions you as a trusted advisor and demonstrates your market knowledge, building credibility and trust. Example: “The market in [area] has been quite competitive lately, with homes selling quickly. However, I’ve noticed a recent trend of [mention a market trend], which could be an advantage for you.”
4. Offer Solutions and Demonstrate Your Unique Value Proposition:
Connect your expertise to their specific needs.
Rapport: Offer tailored solutions based on their needs and explain how your services will help them achieve their goals. Focus on the benefits they’ll receive, not just the features of your services.
Value: Clearly articulate your unique value proposition. What sets you apart? Do you have specialized knowledge, a proven track record, or a unique approach? Example: “I specialize in helping families relocate to the area. I can connect you with trusted local service providers, negotiate the best price for your home, and handle all the details so you can focus on your move.”
5. Follow Up and Stay in Touch:
Nurture the relationship even after the initial conversation.
Rapport: Follow up promptly with a thank-you note, email, or call. Provide any promised information (market reports, listings).
Value: Consistent follow-up reinforces your commitment and keeps you top-of-mind. Example: “It was a pleasure speaking with you today, [Client Name]. I’ve attached the market report we discussed and a few listings I think you might find interesting. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.”
By consistently following these five steps, you’ll build rapport, demonstrate your value, and establish yourself as a trusted real estate professional.
Remember, it’s about building relationships, not just closing deals. Focus on helping your clients achieve their dreams, and the rest will follow.
A System Will Produce What A System Will Produce, Nothing Less and Nothing More!
In a world of increasingly capable machines, what sets humans apart?
Geoff Colvin’s “Humans Are Underrated” argues that our greatest strengths lie in uniquely human abilities like empathy, creativity, and social sensitivity.
It’s not about beating machines at their game, but excelling in areas they can’t replicate.
This book offers a guide to developing these essential skills for a future where human connection and collaboration are more valuable than ever.
Converting leads into clients is the lifeblood of any successful real estate sales business. But not all leads are created equal. From warm referrals to online inquiries, each lead type requires a tailored approach. Here are five proven strategies, complete with scripts and dialogues, to help you maximize your conversion rate.
1. The “Warm Welcome Back” for Referrals:
Referrals are gold. These warm leads come pre-vetted by trusted sources. Your approach should reflect that.
Day 1: Contact within 24 hours. Express gratitude to both the referrer and the lead. Focus on listening, not selling.
Script: “Hi [Lead Name], this is [Your Name]. [Referrer’s Name] suggested I reach out. They mentioned you were thinking about [buying/selling/investing] in [area]. Is that right?”
Lead: “Yes, that’s right. We’re thinking about…”
You: “Great! I appreciate [Referrer’s Name] connecting us. Tell me a little more about what you’re looking for. Are you thinking of staying in [area] or exploring other neighborhoods? What’s your ideal timeline?”
Day 3-7: Personalized follow-up (email or handwritten note). Reference something specific from your conversation. Include relevant resources (market report, blog post).
Email Example:
Subject: Following Up from Our Chat
“Hi [Lead Name], It was a pleasure speaking with you the other day. I especially remember our conversation about [specific detail]. As promised, here’s a link to [relevant resource]. I’d love to schedule a quick call next week to discuss your needs in more detail. Are you free on [suggest two times]? Best regards, [Your Name]”
Ongoing: Stay in touch with valuable content related to their interests. Nurture the relationship.
2. The “Personalized Video Reply” for Website Inquiries:
Website leads have shown interest, but they’re still relatively cold. A personalized video adds a human touch and boosts engagement.
Within 24 Hours: Create a short, genuine video. Address their specific inquiry.
Video Script: “(Smiling) Hi [Lead Name], I’m [Your Name]. Thanks for visiting my website and inquiring about properties in [area]. I saw you were interested in [property type/feature]. I’ve helped many families find their dream homes here, and I’d love to do the same for you. See some properties I think you’ll like at [link]. Call or text me at [phone number] with any questions. I look forward to connecting!”
Follow Up: If no response, send a brief follow-up email.
3. The “Targeted Neighborhood Guide” for Portal Leads (Zillow/Realtor.com):
These leads are actively searching but may be working with other agents. Offer value upfront to stand out.
Within 24 Hours: Contact the lead. Offer a free, customized neighborhood guide.
Phone Script: “Hi [Lead Name], this is [Your Name]. I saw you were looking at properties in [neighborhood] on [Portal]. I wanted to offer you a free, customized neighborhood guide. It includes info on schools, commutes, recent sales, and more. Would you be interested?”
Lead: “Yes, that would be great.”
You: “Perfect! I’ll send it over. Let me know what you think, and I’d be happy to answer any questions.”
Follow Up: Discuss the guide and their search criteria.
4. The “Value-Driven Email Sequence” for Downloaded Resources:
These leads have shown explicit interest by downloading a resource. Nurture them with valuable content.
Automated Sequence (3-5 emails): Deliver helpful information related to the download (buyer’s guide, seller’s checklist).
Email 1 (Immediate): Subject: Your [Resource Name] is Here! “Hi [Lead Name], Thanks for downloading our [Resource Name]! Inside, you’ll find [key takeaways]. More tips on [related topic] coming soon! [Your Name]”
Email 2 (2-3 days later): Subject: [Related Tip/Insight]. “Hi [Lead Name], Following up on your download, here’s a tip about [related topic]. Many clients find this helpful. Stay tuned! [Your Name]”
Email 3 (3-4 days later): Subject: Ready to Talk? “Hi [Lead Name], I hope you’re finding this helpful. I’d love to chat about your real estate goals. Available next week? [Your Name]”
5. The “Consistent Engagement” for Social Media Leads:
Social media requires a relationship-focused approach.
Engage and Interact: Don’t just broadcast listings. Participate in conversations, ask questions, and comment genuinely on followers’ posts.
Share Valuable Content: Post informative and engaging content (real estate tips, local events, community news). Mix it up with various formats.
Run Targeted Ads: Use social media advertising to reach specific demographics.
Key Takeaway: These strategies emphasize building relationships, providing value, and being responsive. Adapt the scripts to your personality, but always be genuine and focus on helping your clients achieve their real estate dreams.
Just back from Inman Connect New York 2025, and wow, what a whirlwind! This year’s event felt different. The shadow of the 2024 antitrust lawsuits seems to be lifting, replaced by a sense of cautious optimism. While challenges undoubtedly remain, the conversations buzzed with potential opportunities for real estate professionals.
Hot Topics Dominated the Conversation:
AI Everywhere: AI was the undisputed star, with Rocket.com’s new AI-assisted search portal generating major excitement. The theme of agents who leverage technology (especially Excel!) versus those who struggle resonated throughout the conference.
Realtor.com’s Evolution: Realtor.com showcased its commitment to enhanced visualization of listings and maps, signaling a push to stay ahead of the competition.
Clear Cooperation Still a Hot Potato: The debate around Clear Cooperation raged on, highlighting the deep divisions within the industry on this issue.
Zillow’s Warning Shot: Zillow made it clear: consumers demand transparency, and if organized real estate doesn’t deliver, they will. This put pressure on the industry to adapt and prioritize consumer needs.
Mortgage Rates and AI’s Impact: The consensus on mortgage rates? No significant relief is in sight. However, discussions around AI’s potential to transform the mortgage process, making it more equitable and consumer-friendly, offered a glimmer of hope.
Commissions in the Spotlight: With the major antitrust lawsuits settled, the conversation around commissions shifted. While some agents still fear declines, others see opportunities for increased earnings through transparent service and skilled negotiation. The possibility of top performers commanding higher commissions was a recurring theme.
Key Takeaways & Themes:
Commissions in Flux: The settlement’s impact on commission structures remains a key concern. The focus is now on demonstrating value and justifying fees, with potential for increased earnings for those who excel.
Beyond Litigation Fatigue: While the resolution of major lawsuits is positive, many are weary of ongoing legal battles. The idea of making commission sharing unethical was proposed as a way to finally move past this issue.
The Professional Edge: The conference underscored the rising importance of professionalism. Agents must clearly articulate their value proposition and justify their fees. This is a positive development that could elevate the entire industry.
NAR’s Path Forward: NAR CEO Nykia Wright’s presence was significant. Her focus on transparency and a “turnaround” for the organization resonated with attendees. How NAR navigates the post-settlement landscape will be crucial.
A Balanced Perspective: Despite the overall optimism, Redfin’s polling data reminds us that anxieties about commission declines and increased negotiation persist. The industry isn’t out of the woods yet.
The Bottom Line:
With the legal cloud lifting, the real estate industry is entering a new era. The emphasis is now on adapting to the changing rules, embracing technology, and providing exceptional service. Transparency, professionalism, and strong negotiation skills are more critical than ever. While challenges remain, the overall sentiment suggests a readiness to move forward.
Turning Inspiration into Action: Your Post-Conference Plan
Conferences like Inman Connect are fantastic for inspiration, but the real value comes from implementation. Don’t let those brilliant ideas gather dust! Here’s a 4-step plan to maximize your conference ROI:
Network Like a Pro: Follow up with the people you met within a week. A quick email mentioning a specific conversation can solidify connections and open doors for future collaboration.
Shine on Social Media: Share your key takeaways and insights. This showcases your commitment to professional development and positions you as a knowledgeable resource.
Actionable Notes: Transform your notes into a concrete action plan. Break down big goals into smaller tasks, set deadlines, and find an accountability partner. Checklists are your friend!
Act Now, Win the Day: Don’t procrastinate! Prioritize your action steps and start implementing them immediately. Consistent action is the key to turning conference inspiration into real-world results. Go out there and make it happen!
We all start somewhere. Every expert was once a beginner, fumbling through the initial stages of learning a new skill. The path to mastery is rarely linear; it’s paved with stumbles, setbacks, and plateaus. But within those challenges lies the key to unlocking our true potential.
This blog post is a celebration of the beginner’s journey, offering encouragement and practical advice to navigate the inevitable bumps along the road.
Finding Pride in the Process
As you embark on your journey as a beginner, remember to pause and acknowledge your progress. It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of the end goal, but the real magic happens in the process. Just like a toddler learning to walk, each small step, each attempted (and often failed) effort, is a victory in itself.
Think back to those early days of walking. Did you give up after the first fall? Of course not! You got back up, dusted yourself off, and tried again. And again. And again. This inherent resilience is something we often lose sight of as adults.
The Rollercoaster of Learning: Progression and Regression
Every beginner will experience a rapid progression of skills early on, followed by a frustrating period of regression or plateau. This is a natural part of the learning process. As we initially grasp the basics, we experience a surge of excitement and motivation. But as we delve deeper, we encounter complexities and challenges that can temporarily halt our progress.
Knowing this pattern beforehand can be incredibly empowering. When you hit that plateau, don’t despair! It’s not a sign of failure, but rather an indication that you’re pushing your boundaries and venturing into new territory.
Focus on the Journey, Not Just the Destination
In our achievement-oriented society, it’s easy to fixate on the end result. But true fulfillment comes from embracing the journey itself. Focus on the process of learning, the joy of discovery, and the satisfaction of overcoming challenges.
As the Zen proverb goes, “The journey is the reward.” By shifting our focus from the destination to the path, we cultivate a sense of presence and appreciation for each step we take.
Visualization and Reality: Balancing Optimism with Realism
Visualizing success is a powerful tool for motivation. However, it’s equally important to be prepared for setbacks. Don’t be discouraged when things don’t come easy. Embrace the stumbles as opportunities for growth.
When you encounter a challenge, take some time to reflect on what went wrong. Analyze your approach, identify areas for improvement, and apply that newfound knowledge to your next attempt. This iterative process of learning and refinement is essential for mastery.
From “Someday” to “Now”: Taking Action
“Someday” is a dangerous word. It allows us to postpone our dreams and aspirations indefinitely. Why wait for an arbitrary point in the future when you can start today? Why not now?
Take that first step, however small it may seem. Sign up for that class, pick up that instrument, start writing that book. The momentum you gain from taking action will fuel your motivation and propel you forward.
Eliminating “Can’t”: Embracing a Growth Mindset
One of the biggest obstacles to learning is the limiting belief that we “can’t” do something. This fixed mindset creates artificial barriers and prevents us from exploring our full potential.
Challenge yourself to eliminate the word “can’t” from your vocabulary. Replace it with “haven’t learned yet” or “I’m willing to try.” This simple shift in language can have a profound impact on your mindset, opening up a world of possibilities.
Embrace the Beginner’s Spirit
The beginner’s journey is a remarkable adventure filled with challenges, discoveries, and triumphs. Embrace the stumbles, celebrate the progress, and never stop learning. As the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” So take that step today, and embark on your own path to mastery.
We all experience fear. It’s a natural human emotion, a primal response to perceived threats ingrained in us since the dawn of humanity. But while fear can be a powerful protector, keeping us safe from genuine danger, it can also be a crippling obstacle, holding us back from pursuing our goals and living a fulfilling life.
This blog post delves into the complex nature of fear, offering insights and strategies to help you transform fear from a barrier into a catalyst for growth.
From Expectation to Appreciation: A Mindset Shift
Often, our fears are rooted in unmet expectations. We fear failure, rejection, or loss because we’ve attached our happiness to specific outcomes. This creates a rigid framework where anything less than perfection feels like a catastrophe. But what if we could shift our perspective, replacing expectations with appreciation?
Imagine approaching challenges with a sense of gratitude, focusing on the opportunity for growth and learning, rather than the fear of failure. This shift in mindset can be incredibly empowering, allowing you to embrace uncertainty and approach challenges with a sense of curiosity and excitement. Think of it like this:
every “failure” is simply a stepping stone towards success, providing valuable lessons and insights along the way.
The Two Sides of the Coin: Achievement and Fulfillment
From my experience, to truly conquer fear, we need to cultivate two essential skills:
The Science of Achievement: This involves setting clear, measurable goals, developing effective strategies, and taking consistent action. It’s about mastering the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Think of this as the “external” game – the tangible steps you take to move forward.
The Art of Fulfillment: This involves cultivating inner peace, gratitude, and a sense of purpose. It’s about finding joy in the journey, regardless of the outcome. This is the “internal” game – cultivating a mindset that supports your growth and allows you to find meaning in your pursuits.
By mastering both the science of achievement and the art of fulfillment, we can approach challenges with confidence and resilience, knowing that we have the tools and mindset to navigate any obstacle. It’s about finding balance between striving for success and finding contentment in the present moment.
Decoding Fear: Understanding Its Various Forms
Fear is not a monolithic entity. It manifests in different ways, depending on the source and the individual. Some common types of fear include:
Fear of Failure: This fear can paralyze us, preventing us from taking risks and pursuing our dreams. It whispers doubts in our ears, convincing us that we’re not good enough.
Fear of Rejection: This fear can make us hesitant to connect with others, leading to isolation and loneliness. It makes us question our worthiness of love and belonging.
Fear of the Unknown: This fear can keep us stuck in our comfort zones, preventing us from exploring new possibilities. It thrives on uncertainty, making us cling to the familiar.
Recognizing the specific type of fear you’re experiencing is crucial in developing effective strategies to overcome it. By naming your fear, you take away some of its power.
Fear and Faith: Two Sides of the Same Coin?
It’s often said that fear is the opposite of faith. But this is a simplistic view. The true opposite of faith is unbelief, a lack of trust in something greater than ourselves. Fear, on the other hand, is simply an emotion, a natural response to perceived threats.
Faith, in this context, is not necessarily religious in nature. It can be a belief in your own abilities, a trust in the process, or a conviction that things will ultimately work out for the best. It’s the courage to step into the unknown, even when fear is present.
Fear as a Stepping Stone to Courage
Without fear, there would be no need for courage. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act in spite of it. It’s the ability to face our fears, assess them, and then choose the appropriate action.
Think of fear as a signal, alerting you to potential challenges or dangers. By acknowledging the signal, you can then gather information, assess the situation, and decide how to proceed. This process, in itself, is an act of courage.
Facing Fear: The Path to True Resilience
Ignoring our fears doesn’t make them disappear. In fact, it often amplifies them, allowing them to fester and grow in the shadows of our minds. The key to overcoming fear is to face it head-on.
This means acknowledging our fears, understanding their source, and then choosing how to respond. It might involve seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist, developing coping mechanisms like mindfulness or meditation, or simply taking a deep breath and stepping forward.
By facing our fears, we not only build resilience but also cultivate courage and faith. We learn that we are capable of handling challenges, and that even in the midst of fear, we can find strength and peace.
Moving Forward: Embracing the Journey
This blog post has explored the multifaceted nature of fear, offering insights and strategies to help you transform fear from a barrier into a catalyst for growth. Remember, fear is a natural part of the human experience. It’s how we respond to fear that determines whether it controls us or empowers us.
By shifting our perspective, cultivating essential skills, and facing our fears head-on, we can unlock our true potential and live a life of courage, resilience, and fulfillment.
The real estate landscape is fiercely competitive. Attracting top talent – seasoned professionals and bright-eyed newcomers alike – requires more than just posting a job ad and hoping for the best. It demands a strategic approach, unwavering commitment, and a deep understanding of what motivates high-achieving agents.
In this blog, we’ll dissect the four key traits shared by the most successful recruiters in the industry, offering insights and actionable steps to elevate your recruitment game.
1. The Power of Routine: Consistency is King
Top recruiters don’t just “wing it.” They understand the importance of a structured routine. This involves:
Dedicated Time Blocks: Schedule specific times each day or week solely for recruitment activities. Whether it’s networking, following up with leads, or refining your value proposition, treat these blocks as non-negotiable appointments.
Organized Systems: Implement a CRM or tracking system to manage your leads, monitor progress, and ensure no opportunity slips through the cracks.
Continuous Learning: Stay ahead of the curve by dedicating time to research industry trends, explore new recruiting platforms, and refine your skills.
2. Persistence Pays Off: Value-Based Follow-Up
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for leads to go cold. Top recruiters understand the power of persistent, value-based follow-up. This means:
Personalized Communication: Avoid generic templates. Craft messages that resonate with each individual’s needs and aspirations.
Providing Valuable Content: Share relevant articles, market insights, or success stories to demonstrate your expertise and commitment.
Strategic Timing: Follow up promptly after initial contact, and maintain consistent communication without being overly aggressive.
3. Building Relationships: Investing in Talent Attraction
Attracting top talent is about more than just filling a position; it’s about building long-term relationships. This involves:
Networking: Attend industry events, conferences, and local meetups to connect with potential candidates.
Community Engagement: Participate in community activities and build a strong local presence to attract talent within your area.
Referral Programs: Leverage your existing network by implementing a referral program that rewards agents for recommending top talent.
4. Sharpening Your Edge: Defining Your Value Proposition
In a crowded marketplace, a clear and compelling value proposition is crucial. This means:
Identifying Your Strengths: What sets your brokerage apart? Is it your training program, technology platform, company culture, or commission structure?
Communicating Your Value: Clearly articulate the benefits of joining your team, highlighting how you can help agents achieve their professional goals.
Targeting Your Ideal Candidate: Tailor your messaging to resonate with the specific needs and aspirations of your ideal recruits.
Self-Assessment: Where Do You Stand?
Now, it’s time for some introspection. How do you measure up against these four pillars? Are you consistently implementing these strategies, or are there areas where you can improve?
To help you assess your current approach, consider these six key questions:
1. Goal Setting:
Given current market conditions, have your recruiting goals changed for the next 60 days?
What needs to happen to meet or exceed these goals?
2. Limiting Beliefs:
What – if any – limiting beliefs do you have about yourself or your company that makes you hesitant to be consistent with the work required?
3. Competitive Landscape:
Who is your top competitor right now?
What value proposition are they using to recruit and attract?
What competitor is experiencing disruption in your marketplace (new management, new ownership, absentee ownership, etc.)?
4. Overcoming Objections:
What is the most common recruitment objection you hear from the experienced agents (or new agents) you’re trying to recruit?
And what’s the best way to overcome this objection?
5. Time Allocation:
What percent of your week should you be investing in attraction and recruiting?
What percent are you spending now?
What needs to change to close the gap?
6. Accountability & Solutions:
What solutions and accountability do I need to achieve my goals?
By honestly answering these questions, you can identify areas for improvement and develop a targeted action plan to enhance your recruitment efforts.
Remember: Attracting top talent is an ongoing process. It requires dedication, persistence, and a willingness to adapt to the ever-changing market dynamics. By embracing these four pillars and consistently refining your approach, you can build a high-performing team that drives success for your brokerage.
A System Will Produce What A System Will Produce, Nothing Less and Nothing More!
I recently had the absolute pleasure of seeing Wicked, and let me tell you, it was an experience. Even though I’m color challenged (meaning I sometimes struggle to distinguish between certain shades of colors like shades of green), and I’m sure I missed some of the finer nuances of the emerald city’s green glow, the show resonated with me on a much deeper level.
It got me thinking about perspective, defying expectations, and finding your own version of “green.”
For those unfamiliar, Wicked tells the story of the Witches of Oz before Dorothy drops in. It explores the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch of the West,” and Glinda, the “Good Witch.” Elphaba, born with green skin, is immediately ostracized and labeled as different. Her journey is one of fighting for what she believes in, even when the world misunderstands her.
The iconic song “Defying Gravity” perfectly encapsulates this struggle. Elphaba makes a conscious choice to rise above the limitations placed upon her, to reject the narrative that has been written for her. She chooses to fly, literally and metaphorically, defying the expectations and prejudices of those around her.
This resonated with me on a personal level. We all have moments where we feel boxed in, where we feel like the world is trying to define us. We’re told who we should be, how we should act, and what we should believe. But like Elphaba, we have the power to defy these limitations. We can choose to rise above the noise and forge our own path.
My own “color challenge” became a small but relevant analogy during the show. I knew green was a major theme, but I wasn’t always picking up on the subtle shifts in hue. Yet, it didn’t detract from my enjoyment. The story, the music, the performances – they transcended the literal color.
It made me realize that sometimes we get so caught up in the details, in the “right” way of seeing things, that we miss the bigger picture.
Elphaba’s green skin is a visual representation of her “otherness,” but her true strength lies in her character, her convictions, and her refusal to conform. Similarly, my experience with the show highlighted that the true “green” wasn’t just about the visual color, but the themes of acceptance, challenging authority, and staying true to yourself.
Just like Elphaba chose to defy gravity, we can choose to defy the limitations placed upon us. We can choose to see the world from a different perspective, to find our own meaning, and to create our own definition of “green.”
It’s not about fitting into someone else’s mold, but about embracing our unique qualities and flying high, even if we see the world in slightly different shades.
Wicked reminded me that sometimes, missing some of the details can actually help us see the bigger, more important picture. And that, in itself, is a kind of magic.
