7 Tips to Sharpen Your Client Communication Skills 

Real estate agents have the opportunity to help people reach one of their biggest life goals: buying a home. To dig down to what your clients really want, you need to speak their language.  That's why client communication is one of the most important tools a real estate agent can perfect. To do it, however, you need the education, training and tools--not to mention the backing of a great team--to make it happen.

When you join BHHS Homesale Realty, we emphasize developing our real estate agents into top talents in the field.

Here are seven tips that we pass along to our sales associates to make it the training process easier: 

1. Emphasize Active Listening
   Listening is the core of good communication. In any profession that involves selling, there's a chance to get distracted by the "prize" and forget to focus your attention on the person in front of you. When you listen carefully, you'll discover new opportunities to provide value to your client. Just as importantly, clients are more likely to trust you and feel at ease working with you.
   
   
2. Let the Client Come Up with Ideas
   As the real estate agent, you're the expert – and that comes with the temptation to have answers to every question. Resist the urge and remember that people are more likely to support ideas they had themselves. Instead of leading with solutions, get feedback on how clients feels an issue should be addressed. If they're way off track, you can gently guide them to a specific course.
   
   
3. Practice Different Communication Styles
   Clients come in all kinds. Some will want to communicate primarily by email, either because of a busy schedule or simply not enjoying too much face-time. Some will be very fastidious about keeping the relationship professional, while others will joke around. Take your cues from each client and adapt accordingly. That helps them feel that you're on their level, whatever it may be.
   
   
4. Make Use of Paraphrasing
   Paraphrasing what others tell you is a great way to show them you are paying attention. It also has the added bonus of solidifying what was said – so you can remember the details later on. You can get clients to open up by paraphrasing and asking questions about what they've said.
   
   
5. Open Your Body Language
   Body language sends important signals in every conversation. Real estate clients want to know that you are being honest and truthful with them, so open your body language. Make good eye contact and avoid closed off postures, such as crossing the arms. It makes a difference!
   
   
6. Eliminate Distractions
   Research has shown that people can really only focus on one thing at a time. The more deeply involved you are with one task, the better your performance will be. When talking to clients, give them your undivided attention. Turn off your cell phone and you'll instantly do better.
   
   
7. Don't Forget Good Writing
   Although you might spend a lot of time with clients on the phone or face to face, you'll still need to put many things in writing. Most clients expect occasional emails from their real estate agent--to update and summarize recent progress. Remember, brevity leads to clarity.
   
   

Are you interested in a working for a company where you'll constantly improve skills like client communication? Apply today with BHHS Homesale Realty and take the first step on your most rewarding professional journey yet.