If you’ve just started a career in estate agency, brushing up on your communication skills is essential to your performance. Even if you have masses of experience, there are always new skills to learn and new ways to think about communication.
Body language
From meeting vendors to showing prospective buyers around a property, your job likely involves a lot of face to face communication. It’s not all in what you say but sometimes how you communicate it. If you tell buyers that your client is open to discussing their offer but you’re looking away from them and your arms are folded, your body language might be telling them something else entirely.
Distractions
When you’re managing multiple projects at once, you’re constantly replying to emails and checking your diary for your next appointment. Your client knows you’re busy, but it can come across as though you’re not interested if you keep interrupting the conversation to answer calls. Put your phone away as soon as you begin a meeting and try to avoid using it until you’re finished.
Communication channels
In an ever-changing technology world, estate agents have to adapt and be available by whatever means your client prefers to use. If you prefer to email, don’t assume that all your clients feel the same as some of them may appreciate a phone call or a text instead. It’s also wise to remember that written communication is just as important as verbal, so make sure you’re using appropriate language and polished grammar.
Listening skills
As well as being able to communicate effectively though a number of channels, one skill you’ll need as an estate agent is the ability to listen. Asking questions based on what your client says will show them that you’re listening and you’re interested in what they have to say. It can also help to clarify anything you didn’t understand.
Clarity
Try to keep it simple with concise messages and don’t flood your clients with estate agency jargon. You might think it makes you sound impressive and knowledgeable but it might actually put people off.
TMI Training Academy offer specialised training across more than 60 different industries, equipping sale professionals with the skills they need to perform better at work. As well as retail sales, telesales, estate agent and field sales training, we also offer completely bespoke workshops. For more information or to book onto a course please contact us today!
