I’ve been quite outspoken about bad behavior and the poor state of the decorum and ethics of our industry. I genuinely appreciate all the positive feedback from those who support my sentiment and are driven to change the perception created by so few that harm our industry.
Let’s be honest, real estate agents are an easy target to make fun of, and we don’t do much to help ourselves. It’s been this way for as long as I’ve been in the industry, but it’s gotten worse. There are more outlets to make fun of us, and there are more of us to make fun of. And we are giving the “haters” who love to make fun of us more ammo.
I get it.
The “influencers” who act like masters of the universe are motivated by personal gain, not by raising the bar for our industry. Why shouldn’t they? They’re being rewarded with likes and listings.
The trade rags take every opportunity they can to denigrate us so they can sell more impressions. Advertising dollars and impressions reward them.
People can’t take their eyes off a train wreck.
And then some actions make you scratch your head.
Last month, a Canadian real estate agent was fined 20,000 Canadian Dollars for drinking milk straight out of the container at a house he was showing. He was caught on camera and then fined, and now his name will forever be associated with this incident. I’m sure he regrets quenching his thirst because he’ll probably have a hard time getting another listing.
For some, becoming unbecoming seems to be a short-term strategic brand builder, and for others, it’s a recipe for disaster.
I argue that both are bad for their long-term business. And not good for our industry.
Let’s do this.
- Shaun