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| Photo via Derek Gavey on Flickr |
What Are the Odds?
There are approximately 312,757,758 people in the United States. At least, as of the time of writing this post there were. Much like Kim Kardashian's martial status, it changes regularly. (You can click here to see where it stands at right now - the population count, that is, not Kim's dating life)
Another number that seems to fluctuate regularly is the number of Realtors in the United States. According to the National Association of Realtors website, the total membership as of the end of November, 2011 was 1,021,338.
A quick calculation shows us that there is at least 1 Realtor for every 306 people in the United States.
And tell me again, why would they choose you?
Am I Top of Mind Awareness Like a Pediatrician, Dentist or Attorney?
If I ask you who your pediatrician is, would you have to look it up on-line? How about the name of your dentist? Does that question cause you to dig their business card out of your wallet or purse? Probably not...because those professionals have earned a spot on the "top of your mind."
Each day you wake up you need to ask yourself this rhetorical question - "If someone in my 306 person "pool" needed real estate help today or knew someone who did, would they call me?"
Do you stand out? Are you recognizable? Have you achieved that coveted "top of mind awareness" spot when people have to think of someone who can help with real estate?
These are great questions to ask yourself every day. When you consider that the chances of most adults knowing only one real estate agent is pretty slim, it really emphasizes the need to stand out and be the one they think of.
"It's pretty damn hard to bring your uniqueness into actual being if you're always doing the same thing as a lot of other people."
- Brendan Francis
So what is that one thing you will do in 2012 that will make you different? What service or technique will you use to stand out and be the professional people think of?
It doesn't have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of your time. When you think about it, it rarely will be just one thing that makes you unique. It will be a combination of your service, your follow up, your reputation and your commitment to each and every person you encounter - both professionally and personally.
What is it that you plan to do in 2012 to differentiate yourself from the other 1 million plus agents who would love to help your clients?
I'd suggest you start by building relationships, solving problems and having fun. Just find a way do it in your own unique way.
