You are pummeled with advice on how to reinvent yourself to survive the current cycle and thrive on the other side. That can be difficult to absorb, particularly for those of you that over a long career have seen and survived downcycles.
Guess what?
You don’t get to decide what realtors & agents need to be … your clients and the marketplace do.
You can review your marketing strategies, positioning, presentations, tools, technology, etc. You may even think that you’ve figured out what’s better, different and speaks to buyers and sellers better.
After all, you know your audience. You are an expert in your area. You have had many successful years, and have been recognized with every award your broker offers throughout your career. However,
You are not the client
As you emerge Phoenix-like from the ashes of this market, you may want to ensure it’s the marketplace that has decided you have it right. How many people would disagree with you? Do you really know?
Keep the client in the center
Keeping a customer-centric attidude, both in word and in deed, will ensure you get it right.
Brandie is an unapologetically candid marketing professional who was recently mentioned on BusinessWeek as a Top Young Female Entrepreneur. She recently co-founded consulting firm MarketingTBD. She's held senior level positions with GE and Fidelity, as well as with entrepreneurial start-ups. Raised by a real estate Broker, Brandie is passionate about real estate and is an avid investor. Follow her on Twitter.

Matt
April 23, 2009 at 2:18 pm
Nice post and so true!
Ken Montville - The MD Suburbs of DC
April 25, 2009 at 7:36 am
I once heard that the best way to thrive in this business is to stay in touch with your clients and to stay in the business,.. This is so true now that all the wannabes are getting out. I’ll reinvent myself as a Realtor who goes the distance. Hmmmm.
Jim Rake
April 25, 2009 at 12:07 pm
Brandie – appreciate the reminder….meeting their needs.