Oh my God! Is it that time again? My next column for REM is due in a few days and I have writer’s block. I’ll put on my special writer’s hat and super-think this through. I have been immersed in watching the Blue Jays.
We’ve literally watched every inning from the end of July and into the playoffs.
What does a professional ball player have to do to become a threat at the plate, a pitcher who can throw a ball as fast as one can drive a car, or a fielder to make that impossible flying catch in the outfield?
There are very few who make it to the big leagues without going up the ladders of several farm teams. Those who do make it are what the sportswriters call “naturals.” I’m sure that some of you sport buffs can name quite a few. But the crux of this article is not about those natural ball players.
To be a major leaguer, it takes a great deal of intensity and practice every day in a six-month season and requires millions of miles of travel. Sure they get paid a millionaire’s income but at the expense and sacrifice of special times with their families. Their bodies endure scores of injuries before that special day when they can have a chance to play in the World Series.
How hard do you work at your profession? Do you come every day with a plan to do better? Do you pick out a few hours in the day to prospect? Or better still, to meet up with prospective clients by door knocking? Do you call those clients you sold five years ago to see if they need your help? The list of questions to ask yourself is endless for those of you who don’t believe in the adage that practice makes perfect.
Do you honestly think the super stars of any major league sport get paid for playing less than 100 per cent effort?
I’ve watched many new agents coming into our profession who think they can work at it part-time. Sure, there are a few who do make a living from real estate part-time. But many times they’re guilty of breaches of duties and create issues that lead to problems because they’re not available for their clients, nor are they available for their other responsibilities, be it another employer or family members who may rely on their assistance.
Many of you have weighed in on this topic and I agree that there should be a better way of eliminating the part-time agents from our profession, but under current governmental guidelines, it’s impossible.
Many enter this profession and treat it as a new job rather than a major career and because of that, they cannot survive the many dips in the road.
Part-time agents treat the new forms and/or formats of doing business as another impediment in their search for instant commission success rather than viewing it as a step forward in keeping them, their clients and colleagues accountable in our profession.
Over time REM’s editor and I have swapped statistics as to where we stand in the top 30 most trusted professions in the public’s eye. I think we’re above used car dealers at number 28 and have been so perceived for many years. Why?
Once again, how do you become like those million-dollar professionals? Are you going to get up earlier each day, perhaps work out at the gym, consult a coach and be determined to be better than you were yesterday? Or are you going to sit and wonder what kind of luck the successful agents have had and why you have not been touched by the same luck? It isn’t luck, my friend. It’s simply hard work, ethical practices and appreciation for your clients, colleagues, support staff and those with whom you have daily contact.
You and you alone, can determine your destiny.
Want to be a major leaguer? Or are you satisfied playing in the minors?
Stan Albert, ABR, ASA is a consultant with Re/Max Premier in Vaughan, Ont. He can be reached for consultation by email. Stan is now celebrating his 45th year as an active real estate professional.
