In the profession of real estate we have the opportunity to build relationships with customers so they become clients. We build relationships with our fellow Realtors, staff and leadership personnel that we deal with daily. We strive to build relationships with our competitors and affiliates in our industry so that we can create a culture of cooperation and teamwork. Many of these relationships become very deep and very close, leading to years and years of referrals and friendships.
Building a relationship with someone is a long, arduous process and once it has been built it must be maintained. In real estate, we should always remember that the relationship with our client shouldn't end after the commission checked has been cashed and spent. It is then truly just beginning. If a Realtor nurtures these relationships well, they will earn the ultimate goal in our industry - "clients for life."
A Relationship Worth Remembering
For the last 14 years, I was lucky enough to build an incredible relationship with someone who was more loyal than any client I ever worked with and a better listener than any co-worker or manager I ever had. I would like to use this post to honor his memory.Last week, I said goodbye to my dog Hogan. He was a great dog but Hogan was an even better friend. He lived a long, happy life and was loved by many. He will be most missed by his family - My wife,Ronda and our children, Riley and Ryan. He was the only pet Riley and Ryan have ever known. (Are you thinking about your childhood pets right now?)
Like most dogs, Hogan never asked why things happened, he never complained and he certainly never withheld his affection. Hogan always seemed to understand when I had a bad day. Hogan never really cared what happened up to that point in the day, he was just glad to see me when I got home. Dogs can do that for you - keep you balanced. Never too high and never too low.
This last week has helped remind me of the important role that our pets play in our lives. I have always discussed the power of recognizing people's pets when forming relationships with our clients and the last week reinforces it. Ask people about their pets - their names, their breeds, their personalities? Seek opportunities to remember the pet(s) in your dealings with the clients before, during and after the transaction.
The support and words of encouragement this past week have been tremendous and I am very thankful for that. Other pet owners, pet lovers or just kind-hearted people have been very generous with their thoughts and prayers. Last Tuesday was a very sad day, but as promised by most of the people I heard from, each day since has gotten a little bit easier. The tears will continue to turn into smiles, laughter and happy memories of my buddy Hogan.
Thanks for your continued support of this blog. I hope if you have any four legged friends at home that you realize that you have built a life-long relationship with them. Don't ever take them for granted.
Here are the life lessons I learned from my dog Hogan...
H - Have a great day. Find a reason to "wag your tail."
O - Obey and be loyal to the people who can help you get what you want.
G - Greet people with enthusiasm and a smile.
A - Appreciate the attention and support you get from people.
N - Never complain. People will like you better when you keep your mouth shut and just listen.
Hogan Patrick Carpenter
March 17, 1995 - July 14, 2009
Good Dog...Great Friend
Goodbye Hogan. I'll miss you but I will never forget you.
