We spend a lot of time and money on advertising, blogging, website design, search engine optimization, and generating leads and referrals, yet all of this can be seriously derailed through thoughtless actions that have nothing to do with real estate.
Take for instance driving on the freeway – in our company’s branded car. Every time we cut someone off, shake our fist, yell at someone (even if they can’t hear us), blow our horn out of disgust or frustration, weave in and out of traffic, or seriously exceed the speed limit, it’s not just us doing it – it’s our company.
In town, if we run through a red light (or stretch the yellow), roll through a stop sign, or beat someone out of a parking spot, people see that as our company doing this because that’s the name they see on our vehicle.
We don’t have to be saints, but we need to be mindful that little acts that we may not pay that much attention to can make a big difference to others who see us do them. It only takes one or two something really stupid acts to blow a whole lot of positive advertising and intentional branding.
-----
For more information on my coaching services or sales tips visit my website stevehoffacker.com or my blog homesalesinsights.com.
Hi Steve...This is so true, especially when you live in a small community, which I do. My husband also drives a vehicle with my signs on them. Fortunately he is very well behaved!
Cheers,
Kathleen
I'll have to consider getting some car signs for my vehicle. I'm a very responsible driver, though of course there are always times when I do make mistakes on the road. NO ONE is a perfect driver.
Steve - I will have to agree. People tend to remember the angry guy, or the mom who was yelling at her kid in the parking lot. Great advice. Have a great weekend.
Terrie, thanks for your comments. We really do remember people's behavior, and I'm sure they remember ours, so let's give them good stuff to think about. Steve
Steve - absolutely right. People not only read your blog, they read your comments as well. I am often surprise at the things people mention when they call.
Jackie, that is an excellent observation. Thanks for sharing that with everyone. I'm glad you added your comments. Steve
When I drive around with my teenage son and his friends they usually seem to be doing something stupid in the car. I'm constantly saying "Stop doing that! My name is on the car!" They think that is REALLY funny, and I'm worried what people will be thinking.
Uta,
I know it's hard as a parent because they just don't get it - they don't have the capacity yet - but you are so right. Thanks for your comments.
Steve
Thanks for the great reminder; and people are watching you. Your logo is attached to you and what you do. How people view you , could be a reflection of what they think about your company!
Joseph,
Thanks for adding your comments. How we conduct ourselves in public definitely impacts our brand and our image.
Steve
Great post - I always enjoy reading your blogs and I agree - we should always be mindful of how we are acting - you never know who is watching you! Thanks for the post!
Norma,
Thanks for your agreement and support. Not only do we need to be mindful of who might be watching, we need to conduct ourselves so that it doesn't matter if anyone is watching.
Steve
In line of this post, we must be aware that we must be careful because we are judged by whom we associate. If we make a referral and the person is unsatisfied with the work performed by the other professional, we often are collateral damage. Associate with the best and it only improves our status in the eyes of our customer. We become an important resource and a trusted advisor. We make things happen.
Ryan,
You make a very valuable point. Associations and referrals do reflect on us. Thanks for adding your comments. :)
Steve
Steve: I really enjoy your posts. They reflect a similar mindset on a host of issues.
Funny post, Steve. We have a moving truck with our info plastered all over it and we suffer the same fate should we make a mistake out on the road.
Ryan,
Thanks for your support and readership. I appreciate it. :)
Steve
Kris,
Your trucks are great billboards, but they can call attention to you even when you don't want it. :)
Steve
Steve, I enjoyed reading your blog. As always, you provided some great advice. When driving vehicles that display our company's name, we should always be very mindful of our actions and how others may interpret these actions. I realize it's easier said than done, that is I mean being conscious routinely of what we're doing or how we're behaving, but it's certainly worth the effort.
Great points Steve.
Tracy,
Good, common sense is what is needed, not paranoia. Thanks. :)
Steve
Amber,
Thanks for your comments and agreement. We just need to be aware of where we are and our surroundings. :)
Steve
Steve - That's great advice for anyone, but epecially Realtors. Unlike other careers, we are full-time 24/7. We spend much effort, time, and money for people to recognize us. We should live up to the image we are presenting to the public. One may be surprised how many recognize us although we may not have a clue who they are.
Tim,
Thank you. You have said it very well. No need to add to it. :)
Steve