Make Sure Your First Impression Is A Good One

In today’s competitive real estate market, first impressions are crucial to attracting potential clients and securing successful business transactions. REALTORS must present themselves as knowledgeable and reliable experts to gain prospective clients’ trust.

Vivian Zayas, a professor of psychology at Cornell University says, “As social beings, we use everything available to make sense of a person we’re meeting for the first time. We make decisions about others almost instantly and once an opinion is formed it becomes difficult to adjust.” Fortunately, there are ways to leave a strong lasting impression. Here’s how to ensure others view you in a positive light.

Your virtual identity

It is imperative to have a professional and visually appealing website with clear and concise messaging. Ensure that your social media profiles and email communications are consistently branded and reflect your company’s values and tone of voice. Use proper grammar and punctuation in all online communication, including emails, messages and comments.

Follow the dress code

While your online presence is crucial, ensure you make a lasting impression during in-person client meetings, as well. Dressing professionally according to the specific niche market you cater to is vital. Of course, being in Austin does dictate some choices. Men can opt for a casual suit, or well-pressed pants and a crisp button-down shirt and tie, while women should choose a knee-length dress or trousers with a silky, free-flowing blouse. Combine the outfit with seasonably appropriate high heels, dressy sandals, or flats.

Connect with your clients

Maintaining a professional demeanor is crucial. Nonetheless, creating an authentic rapport with your clients is key to leaving a positive impact. To accomplish this, engage with them and discover shared interests. Common topics of conversation include family, hobbies, pets, and so on. Identify mutual interests or simply lend an ear to their experiences and display empathy and understanding. As the saying goes, people won’t value your knowledge until they see the depth of your care.

Surprisingly, these interactions can lead you in the direction of their ideal home. For instance, if they mention having pets, you can use that information to find a home with pet-friendly features or a spacious backyard. They will be touched by this subtle sign of consideration. So, be present for them as both their real estate agent and as a fellow human being.

Value of honesty

Navigating the complex world of real estate can be demanding, but the secret to long-term success is maintaining transparency with your clientele. The age-old adage, “honesty is the best policy,” holds true for a reason.

It’s not uncommon for clients to have unrealistic expectations. For instance, many anticipate a quick sale at their initial asking price, but are unwilling to invest in curb appeal or other essential factors that aid the selling process. Conversely, potential buyers often have lofty criteria while operating on a limited budget.

In scenarios like these, it’s crucial for REALTORS to be forthright and clear about every facet of their role. Overpromising and underdelivering can be detrimental to your reputation. Keep in mind that compromises are frequently needed on both sides. Conveying this understanding from the start is another crucial component in an agent’s guide to making an impactful first impression.

Exude self confidence

What happens if a REALTOR does everything correctly, but lacks confidence in himself or herself? Studies show that one’s level of confidence significantly impacts career success. Even something as simple as a handshake can alter the direction of a professional relationship. Communications experts claim they can judge someone’s arrogance, fear, anxiety, weakness, or strength solely from their handshake. So, avoid appearing weak or domineering.

In closing, real estate professionals must understand the significance of first impressions. Remember that investing in your image and professional demeanor will go a long way to creating impactful and lasting connections.

in the RE NEWS (interactive LINKS)

Candy Cooke of Real Property Conselors announces she have been approved as a NAR REALTORS L.E.A.D. Vision Instuctor

Champion School of Real Estate New Episode Alert: Real Estate Superstars — ”Real Estate Cycles, Niches, Markets, Teams” with Rita Santamaria

Independence Title shines the spotlight on its Dripping Springs

Home Team: Happy 18 years anniversary to Escrow Officer Gail Hagemann and Business Development Representative

Sarah Holmes

Austin Board of REALTORS: With inventory growing to 3.4 months and active listings soaring by an impressive 118.9% to reach 8,960, both buyers and sellers are seeing the Austin-Round Rock housing market in a favorable light.

PUBLISHER/PRESIDENT DOREN CARVER doren@myrealtyline.com

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER TAWANNA CARVER tawanna@myrealtyline.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CAROLINE CARVER caroline@myrealtyline.com

Founded in 1995, RealtyLine is a trade publication for real estate professionals. As a non-subscription publication, it is distributed by the US Postal Service to over 18k+ members of the Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR), over 1,800+ members of the Williamson County Association of REALTORS® (WCREALTORS) and the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin, as well as those involved in the real estate industry.

It is our pleasure to be a member of ABoR, WCREALTORS, HBA, and have been designated as an honorary member of the WCR Austin Chapter. We are equally proud to be a Major Investor in TREPAC (2019, 2020).

In advertising or editorial copy, RealtyLine is not responsible for viewpoints, facts, or errors expressed by non-staff writers. REALTOR® is a registered trademark. There are times when REALTOR® appears in this publication without the registered trademark symbol (®). A registered trademark should be assumed whenever the word REALTOR® appears in this publication.

How To Reach Us

Editorial Submissions

To submit a news release or editorial inquiry email tawanna@myrealtyline.com

Print & Online Advertising

Send request to tawanna@ myrealtyline.com or reach Doren at (512) 514-3141

Postmaster

Send changes of address to RealtyLine, P.O. Box 81366, Austin, Texas 78708-1366

Social Media facebook.com/ @myrealtyline instagram.com/ @myrealtyline linkedin.com/ @myrealtyline

Digital Issues Issuu.com/realtyline

YouTube.com/ @realtyline6267

Up-to-date Calendar of Events

Subscribe

SERVING THE AUSTIN METRO AREA AND SURROUNDING CITIES