We all carry a little ego and pride within us, yes? They’re like two sides of a coin: one shiny and the other tarnished. But how do we wield this coin wisely?
The Ego: Friend or Foe?
Ego is that whisper that says, “I’m better than others.” It’s the silent applause when we outshine someone. But beware! An inflated ego can be a stealthy saboteur. It blinds us to our flaws, muffles our curiosity, and distances us from genuine connections.
Self-Awareness Checkpoint
Pause and reflect:
Are your actions driven by genuine self-worth or ego?
Do you listen more than you speak?
The Paradox of Pride
Pride the medal we pin on our chests after a hard-fought victory. It’s the warmth of accomplishment, the “I did it!” moment. Yet excessive pride can morph into arrogance. It builds walls, making it hard to admit mistakes or seek help.
The Empathy Bridge
Cross it:
Understand that everyone has their battles.
Recognize the worth in others—their struggles, their victories.
The Learning Mindset
True wisdom lies in acknowledging our limitations. When we learn, our ego shrinks, and our pride becomes a stepping stone.
Gratitude Attitude.
Practice it:
Celebrate your achievements, but remain grateful.
Excessive pride blinds us to the collective effort—the mentors, the late nights, the shoulders we stood on.
The balance?
It seems we don’t obliterate ego and pride; we channel them. Like a river, they can nourish or flood. So, let them flow constructively.
John D. Rockefeller, the founder of Standard Oil, left an indelible mark on business history. His disciplined approach to management and leadership principles inspired Verne Harnish to outline the “Rockefeller Habits.” These habits, originally embraced by Rockefeller himself, can transform your business. Whether you lead a team of 1 or 500, implementing these habits can create a winning “operating system” for your organization.
The 10 Rockefeller Habits
Healthy and Aligned Executive Team
Your company’s performance hinges on its leadership team. Ensure they understand and complement each other’s strengths. Regular meetings and commitment to learning are essential.
Quarterly Focus
Everyone should be aligned with the #1 priority for the quarter. This clarity drives progress and prevents distractions.
Effective Communication Rhythm
Establish a rhythm for sharing information across the organization. Timely communication keeps everyone informed and engaged.
Accountability for Goals
Assign accountability for achieving goals in every facet of your organization. When everyone knows their responsibilities, progress accelerates.
Employee Input and Feedback
Collect ongoing input from employees to identify obstacles and opportunities. Their insights are invaluable.
Customer Feedback Analysis
Treat customer feedback data as crucially as financial data. Regular analysis ensures you stay customer-centric.
Living Core Values and Purpose
Infuse your organization with core values and purpose. When these are “alive,” employees feel connected and motivated.
Articulate Strategy
Every employee should understand the key components of your company’s strategy. Clarity empowers action.
Quantify Employee Satisfaction
Can your team quantify whether they had a good day or week? Regularly assess employee satisfaction.
Transparency in Plans and Performance
Make your company’s plans and performance visible to everyone. Transparency fosters trust and alignment.
Implementing the Rockefeller Habits isn’t just about business growth; it’s about creating a thriving culture. Embrace these habits, adapt them to your context, and watch your organization flourish. Remember, it’s not the size of your team that matters—it’s the commitment to excellence that defines success.
Mark, are there other management operating systems to consider? Fore sure, many of the clients I work with our 4DX or EOS shops. It’s really up to which process resonates the most with you and your team. Pick your system and get started – remember a system will produce what a system will produce, nothing less and nothing more!
Not happy with your results? Be HARDER on the system.
A System Will Produce What A System Will Produce, Nothing Less and Nothing More!
“No pain, no palm; no thorns, no throne; no gall, no glory; no cross, no crown.”
What is Penn saying?
“Endure to Cultivate Success” – The journey to success is akin to nurturing a garden; it requires diligence and resilience. Just as a gardener patiently cares for their plants before reaping the harvest, one must toil and persevere to attain their aspirations.
“Embrace the Thorns for the Throne” – True triumph is not without its trials. The path to greatness is lined with thorny obstacles, but it is through facing and overcoming these challenges that we ascend from the depths of difficulty.
“Bitter Trials Bring Sweet Victories” – The road to glory is often paved with setbacks and sour moments. Yet, it is by navigating through these bitter experiences that we pave the way for substantial accomplishments. If you find yourself amidst adversity, remember this adage.
“Sacrifice Paves the Way to Leadership” – Reflecting on his Quaker beliefs, Penn draws a parallel to the spiritual realm. Leadership demands sacrifice and endurance, much like the spiritual quest for a higher reward.
Someone told me today, “You think differently!” I picked up on this by studying George Patton: “If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking.”
Yet what I’ve learned the most is summarized by Tim Ferriss: “It isn’t enough to think outside the box. Thinking is passive. Get used to acting outside the box.”
Staying on top of the housing market is key to serving your clients. Here’s a quick snapshot of the latest trends that will impact your real estate practice:
Price Adjustments: Sellers are increasingly adjusting their expectations, with a notable uptick in price reductions from initial listings in the last few weeks.
Conditions Count: Homes that aren’t “move-in” ready are facing pressure in this competitive market.
Market Dynamics: A significant 34.4% of homes on the market have experienced price corrections, signaling a shift in supply vs. demand.
Buyer’s Options Expanded: With a 36% increase in inventory compared to last year, buyers now have a wider selection to choose from.
Regional Variations: While New York and Nevada maintain a tighter grip on their inventory, Texas is experiencing a bump in sales activity thanks to a more abundant selection.
Mortgage Mysteries: Curious about what drives mortgage rates? They’re more intricate than you might think. Send me a direct message for a detailed breakdown.
Sales Trends: The rhythm of new sales has dipped recently, but the overall pace remains consistent with last year’s figures.
Understanding these trends is one thing, but distilling them into actionable insights is where true leadership shines. For a personalized analysis, slide into my DMs for a one-on-one chat.
Now is not the time to sit back and see how things turn out. You’ll be left behind.
Last year 18% of agents changed firms across the US and a recent survey from Inman news 39% of agents plan to switch brokerages this year-up 56% from those who shared a similar desire in 2023.
Old math / new math – regardless of what number you believe – that’s a lot of movement and right now somewhere between 25% up to 39% of your own agents are looking to make a move.
Why?
Uncertainty … with all the changes, all the news are you LEADING or going SILENT?
What’s missing?
52% want more referrals and leads
44% want better training and education
42% want more support
What’s on their “must have” list?
93% want to be connected to a trusted/recognizable brand
88% want top-notch marketing and advertising support
82% want leading edge technology and tools.
Look this is what we do – if you need help we should have a conversation. Yet, in the meantime I’d leave you with this: quickly go on the OFFENSE immediately to re-recruit the keepers.
Identify who in your office is most likely to leave and proactively start re-recruiting them. Find out what they’re missing and fix the problems before it’s too late.
Energized Recruiting: If you have strong solutions in the areas where agents are feeling deficits, step out in confidence and get connected to as many prospects as possible.
Use the survey findings as a guideline to prepare scripts and talking points that address these issues.
Plan talent attraction events that highlight your expertise in the areas where they are feeling deficiencies.
Embracing Discomfort: The Unseen Catalyst in Sales Success
In the realm of sales, discomfort is not an intruder but an inevitable companion. It’s the tightrope walk between sticking to the status quo and venturing into the unknown. Yet, it is within these moments of unease that the seeds of success are sown. Every instance of discomfort brings with it a pivotal moment of choice, and it is the caliber of these decisions that sculpt our sales narrative.
The Crossroads of Comfort and Growth
Sales professionals often find themselves at a crossroads. One path is paved with the familiar – the techniques and strategies that have worked in the past. The other path is less traveled, lined with the thorns of uncertainty and the promise of growth. Choosing the latter requires courage, for it is a journey through discomfort.
The Decision Dilemma
When faced with discomfort, the decision we make can either propel us forward or keep us tethered to our current state. It’s a delicate balance between risk and reward. The right decision, often the one that feels the most uncomfortable, has the potential to unlock doors to new opportunities and relationships.
The Role of Integrity
Doing the right thing, especially when it’s the hardest, speaks volumes about one’s integrity. In sales, this might mean walking away from a deal that doesn’t align with your values or pushing for a product that truly benefits the customer, even if it’s not the easiest sell. It’s about putting long-term relationships above short-term gains.
The Impact on Sales Approach
Embracing discomfort can dramatically transform our sales approach. It encourages us to be more empathetic, to listen actively, and to engage with our clients on a deeper level. It pushes us to innovate, to find solutions that are not just effective but also ethical and sustainable.
The Uncomfortable Truth
The uncomfortable truth is that discomfort is not to be avoided but embraced. It is a catalyst for growth, a test of character, and a builder of trust. As sales professionals, when we choose to do the right thing in the face of discomfort, we don’t just close a deal; we open a realm of possibilities where our integrity and our success are inextricably linked.
In the end, the quality of our decisions in the face of discomfort defines not just our sales success, but our legacy in the business world. Let us choose wisely, act boldly, and embrace the discomfort that heralds the dawn of achievement.
His mother, no longer able to provide for him, turned him over to the foster care system. At 22, he was homeless with a two-year-old son to care for.
The only way he could go was up. With $700 start-up cash, he pursued his vision.
Paul Mitchell hair products and eventually Patrón tequila.
One of the most significant traits of his success, he says, was overcoming rejection.
“You’ve got to be prepared in life for a lot of rejections.”
Pointing to a time, he had to sell encyclopedias door-to-door to put food on the table. Many doors, literally, closed in his face. As a result, he came to expect rejection, which proved to be beneficial, as he learned this:
“You must be just as enthusiastic on door 51 as you were on door 50, even if all 50 of those doors are closed in your face!”
John Paul DeJoria’s journey from homeless to entrepreneur and philanthropist – now you know…the rest of the story.
#WinTheDay
Resistance is normal. What you do about it creates the future!
” What would happen if you never tolerated inaction in yourself?”
This thought-provoking question challenges us to examine our relationship with action, failure, and growth. In a world where procrastination often holds us back, embracing movement becomes essential. In this blog post, we’ll explore the transformative power of action, drawing lessons from both success and failure.
1. The Paralysis of Inaction The Comfort Zone
Inaction feels safe. It’s the cozy cocoon where we avoid risks, sidestep challenges, and settle for mediocrity. But within this comfort zone lies stagnation—a slow erosion of potential. When we tolerate inaction, we deny ourselves the chance to learn, adapt, and evolve.
The Illusion of Perfection
Perfectionism fuels inaction. We wait for the perfect moment, the flawless plan, or the ideal circumstances. Meanwhile, life passes us by. The truth is, there’s no perfect time. Action doesn’t require perfection; it demands courage. Imperfect steps forward lead to progress.
2. Lessons from Failure Failure as a Teacher
Failure isn’t the enemy; it’s a wise mentor. Each misstep, setback, or disappointment carries valuable lessons. When we embrace failure, we learn resilience, humility, and resourcefulness. It’s through failure that we refine our approach, recalibrate our goals, and discover hidden strengths.
The Cost of Inaction
Consider the cost of not acting. Regret, missed opportunities, and unfulfilled dreams accumulate. Inaction robs us of experiences, relationships, and growth. It’s like standing at the edge of a cliff, fearing the leap, while life beckons from below. Trust movement—even if it means stumbling.
3. Trusting Movement Small Steps, Big Impact
Action need not be grandiose. Small, consistent steps yield remarkable results. Whether it’s writing a page a day, taking a daily walk, or learning a new skill, these micro-actions accumulate over time. Momentum builds, and suddenly, you’re miles ahead of where you started.
The Ripple Effect
Your actions ripple outward. When you defy inaction, you inspire others. Your courage becomes contagious. Imagine the impact if everyone refused to tolerate their own inertia. The world would shift, evolve, and thrive.
Conclusion?
“Trust movement.”
These two words encapsulate a powerful philosophy. By rejecting inaction, we embrace growth. So, dear reader, take that step, write that email, make that call. The lessons lie not in perfection but in motion. Let failure be your guide, and trust movement—it’s the path to transformation.
Perfection is not the standard, progress is!
The journey begins with a single step.
There are some lessons that only #failure can teach.
Failure is not the problem. #Inaction is. #Procrastination is.
Trust movement.
” What would happen if you never tolerated inaction in yourself?”
Regardless of where you are on your goals year to date, there is still time to produce more this year. If your desire is to close the first half strong; not be broke on July 1, and be prepared for an amazing back half of the year,back half of the year then you gotta read this.
3 killer strategies…
Up your seller education game;
Portray trust and
Regardless of YOUR age, appeal to millennials.
Some time ago I had the honor of attending the Zillow Premier Broker event in Chicago, IL. The Zillow Consumer Housing Report was an amazing value add, and at least 3 major trends stood out for me.
Trend 1: Up Your Seller Education Game
Zillow’s research shows more than half of all sellers have NEVER sold a home before. It’s a totally new experience for them. Place yourself in their shoes: Are they scared? Are they apprehensive? Are they afraid of being taken advantage of? Do you think they wish they knew more than they do? That answer would be YES to all of those.
So, let’s look at what that means to you and me. This is one stat begging you to proactively help educate your prospects and, in the process, attract more referrals and more listings.
For those of you with extensive experience, you could write up a report like, “4 Ways To Maximize The Value Of Your Home” or “3 Essential Facts Every First-Time Home Seller Must Know” and offer them on your lead capture landing pages.
Promote them by running Facebook ads in your target communities, along with a video about how you’re passionate about educating sellers. For those of you with less experience, you can hire out these reports to content writers in your area… check out FIVERR or #GTS = Google That Stuff!
Practical ideas to consider:
Informative Direct MailCampaigns, like: The benefits of a “Home Warranty Sellers Coverage” policy
Short special reports and white papers, like: Best Home Improvements• Determining Your Homes Value• Value Of A Pre Sell Home Inspection• Benefits Of Partnering With A Hyper-Local Expert, Like Me!
Educational seminarsor zoom sessions
Short videosto walk people through the process with a call to action to reach out to you
Quick seller tipson social media with a call to action to reach out to you
And while it may be their first time, today’s sellers have access to more data and best practices BEFORE they reach out to possible selling agents. They are looking for a strategist with the market knowledge, marketing skills, and legal know-how to do the heavy lifting that will get them from sale to closing.
Some of the activities “self-starting sellers” get a jump on before engaging with an agent include home improvements (50 percent), coming up with a list price for their home (39 percent) and securing a home inspection (25 percent).
Trend 2: Ensure Your Marketing And Promotions Portray TRUST
Eighty-six percent of consumers say trustworthiness is “extremely” or “very” important when choosing an agent. When your biggest asset is at stake, you want to trust the person guiding your transaction.
So, let’s think about what makes someone trustworthy. Or better yet, let’s discuss who we don’t consider trustworthy:
Complete strangers• Salespeople who only show up when there’s something in it for them
Obviously, the more familiar people are with you, the more they are naturally likely to trust you. So, if 86 percent of consumers are telling you that you must be trustworthy to even be considered, what’s that mean to you? It means you need to be putting yourself in front of prospects over and over and over again to create that familiarity that breeds trustworthiness.
Do you have more than 5 testimonials and endorsements?• Do you create a “social proof” marketing piece that shows what OTHER people say about you?• Are you visible and involved in the communities you serve?• Are you marketing to the same neighborhoods consistently or jumping around to wherever you take your next listing?• Does your website or your marketing give any insight into who YOU are as a person, or do you come across like a real estate robot?
All of these questions lead to huge opportunities to build trust with homeowners so when they decide to sell, you’re already in that “extremely important” category of being trustworthy.
Trend 3: Regardless Of YOUR Age, Appeal To Millennials… Nearly 50% Of Your Future Business May Depend On This!
Millennials – that generation between the ages of 24 and 38 – account for 42 percent of all home buyers and 61 percent of all first-time buyers, according to Zillow’s report. These folks were raised on the Internet. As a result, they’re accustomed to Amazon-level service and ease of use. You know that experience: Where you order something late Friday night and somehow it shows up on your doorstep on a Sunday morning! That’s the standard you’re up against when you work with 42 percent of buyers. So here’s the big question:
Are your services and systems up to that standard?
If your answer is no, it’s time to adapt how you do things.
Strive to make working with you as easy as ordering from Amazon. Where can you streamline? What can you eliminate? What more can you do prior to meeting with a buyer to make the process smoother? What “extras” can you provide to make your service more beautiful? We all need to be asking ourselves these questions and refining our systems on a regular basis because that standard isn’t reversing course anytime soon. It’s only going to get higher and higher.
There you have it… 3 killer strategies… up your seller education game; portray trust and regardless of YOUR age, appeal to millennials.
To resonate with prospects, you must understand their pains, problems, desires, and triumphs.
