In a world becoming ever-more dominated by social media, there is a greater focus on one’s self-image. This is particularly evident in the real estate industry where there is a larger emphasis on competition and demonstrating how you are better than others, showing how you stand out. It is during this time that the balance between humility and an inflated obsession with self-image is most valued. Please don’t misunderstand the message I’m trying to deliver. I understand that very often, our clients want to hear about how great we are. They want to know that the agent they are partnered with is very good at what they do, especially in cases where the client may be interviewing many candidates. They want to know they are working with the best and it helps them validate their choice to work with you. In these cases, bring it on. Show your “stuff” so to speak. A little piece of advice, however: The voice of a satisfied client, through a great testimonial, will often resonate with a potential customer far more than you tooting your own horn. This is why testimonials are so powerful. You are not talking about how great you are… a satisfied customer is.
Why is it that some people come across as if they are constantly on an interview? Why do they feel the need to brag about their accomplishments, constantly telling everyone around them how great they are? I have my theories but I’m willing to bet that this behavior doesn’t make them more likable.
One of the clearest benefits of being more humble is that you will be more likable. Think about it this way, how many of your close friends are completely self-centered? How many of your friends think that they are better than everyone else and are always bragging about themselves, rubbing their accomplishments in other people’s faces? The answer is probably few if any at all. Not many people want to be friends with those who are arrogant.
Though there may be some exceptions to this, I believe most clients, colleagues, and staff want to work alongside successful but humble people. To them, someone who brags, or thinks that they know more than everyone else is difficult/impossible to work with. Take for example a professional who thinks that they are the best and knows more than their colleagues. Even if they are the best, they would quickly fall behind because they are less likely to learn from other professionals who are advancing in their field. Real estate is a rapidly changing industry and there is always more to learn. If you think you know it all, then you are less likely to take the time to learn from others. One of my favorite Gino Blefari quotes, “When you think you know it all and you are better than everyone else, you have begun your slide to mediocrity.”
Never sell yourself short but remember to be humble.
TERRY Talks 