Sharing Your Genius . . . In Your Own Market?

Not too long ago, I was preparing to teach a new REBAC course, which is the newest elective toward the Accredited Buyer Representation (ABR) designation. We launched the class at the National Association of REALTORS® Annual Conference in San Diego in November 2015, after piloting it right here in Atlanta, at my local association, the Atlanta Association of REALTORS®, in my own market. A few months later, I taught it again in my home state, at the Georgia Association of REALTORS® Inaugural and Legislative Conference, again right here in Atlanta.

Which begs the question: how do you feel about sharing your genius in your own market?

This is a question that comes up frequently, and I hear it especially when I teach at other local boards or when the class I’m leading is more of a roundtable format or has a sharing or collaborative component. Attendees are often reluctant to speak up in class, to share what they do, or even to ask questions, to relay concerns, or to admit to doubts or shortcomings.

So here is my take on the question: how do you feel about sharing your genius in your own market?While I don’t especially love the idea of giving other agents in my market, who are potentially my competition, a sneak peek at what I do and where my successes lie, at the end of the day, this simple truth exists: no one is you.

No one is you.

No one will do what you do exactly the same way that you do it.

No one can invest and infuse the passion you have, the resources you use, the unique way that you do you like you can.

No one will be able to duplicate the engagement you have with your past and current clients, your sphere of influence, your friends and family. No one knows them like you do, so no one can truly copy what you do.

So while I don’t necessarily advocate being an open book and sharing all that you do, don’t let it stand in the way of your success. In fact, cultivating a reputation of generosity often leads to better rapport and better relationships among your peers and better experiences when you encounter those agents in transactions, at events, or on committees at your local board. When you enroll in education and classes in your market or at your local board, remember that sharing your successes and challenges will make those educational experiences richer and more beneficial not just for you, but for the others in the room, as well as giving you a chance to cultivate that positive reputation among your peers. Don’t be afraid to share in the name of bettering your business!