Saturday, December 22, 2012

Why the Golden Rule is Killing Us

Remember in grade school, they always taught us the Golden Rule?  "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you".  I believe that's a stupid rule - why should I treat everyone the way I want to be treated? Shouldn't I treat people the way they want to be treated?  Does it not make more sense for me to spend time getting to know people and find out what they like?
My sixth grade teacher and principle Mr. Roberts taught us we should be better than that - we should follow what he called the "Platinum Rule".  Do unto others as THEY would have you do unto them".  I believe this rule is very valid in life as well as real estate.  It does require that you get to know the people you are speaking with - in short, it requires you to listen - something humans do not typically do very well.  I also believe this is a primary reason why agents lose out on listings and deals - they're not listening to their clients. 
Another Great teacher in my life Gene Boaz always said that God gave us 2 ears and 1 mouth for a reason.  He intended us to listen twice as much as we speak.  That's something that we often struggle with - especially those of us that like the sound of our own voice.  So before you go off on your next appointment - take some time to research more than just the house.  Take time to find out who the people are, what are their interests, how do they like to be treated.  And then wish them a Merry Christmas, or a Happy Hanukkah, or Happy Kwanzaa, or even a Happy Solstice.  You might find that you end up with more than just a client,  but a good friend, and that you have more in common that you thought. 
Photo:http://www.essex1.com/pages/paul/bible-golden-rule.html