by Michael Carter, Senior Director of Operations & Professional Standards
One of the hallmarks of professionalism is polite behavior. You are accountable for what you say and how you say it, whether face-to-face, on the phone, by email or on social media. Remember that your conduct directly impacts your professional reputation, good or bad.
Rude, discourteous, or intemperate behaviour is neither acceptable nor professional. And – just because there might be a phone or a screen and a keyboard between you and your target, doesn’t mean it’s acceptable to express your opinion or frustrations in a negative and potentially offensive way.
We all know, in our interactions with others, things can go “sideways.” Traffic jams can make sheer folly of your plans for the day and induce “range anxiety” in electric vehicle owners, phone tag with clients or other realtors, or uncooperative tools of the trade and tech can all cause rising levels of frustration. There are countless ways that the events of an otherwise well-planned day can seem to conspire against you, including matters that you cannot control, such as a downturn in the market.
So, when you feel like you want to “explode” in frustration, please be mindful of your reputation as a professional – one who is guided by values representative of your Board. As realtors, you are held to the highest standards of professionalism which are reflected in CREA’s REALTOR® Code of Ethics. To put it simply, “Your reputation is only as good as the WORST thing you’ve ever done”. [1] Avoid the temptation to vent your frustration towards others. Instead, take a deep breath, and be respectful. We’re all in this together.
The CREA Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice apply 24/7. You are never not a REALTOR®.
Professionalism is equally important when using social media. As a powerful tool for sharing information, insight, and knowledge, it is not a place to vent emotions. If you are upset about something, tell it to your family, your colleagues, or your dog (but not your cat because chances are, they will not care). If you are unsure if the content you want to post is appropriate, first ask for a trusted opinion. If it has anything to do with real estate or a fellow REALTOR®, consult your Managing Broker.
Managing Brokers have an added responsibility to model and inspire professional conduct at all times, and to remind realtors and staff of the importance of professional behaviour. Spotlighting this during regularly scheduled meetings would bring benefit to all, in preserving professional reputation for the industry as a whole. We all have a role to play. How we conduct ourselves, in private and in public, can either reflect professionalism or the lack of it, especially in the ways we talk to and about each other.
It’s the ABCs of Professionalism – which simply means, be nice to each other.
In the FVREB parking lot, there is an unassuming, yet environmentally conscientious vehicle with a bumper sticker that reads, “I hope that something good happens to you today.” And I do too!
[1] Your Reputation is Only as Good as The WORST Thing You’ve Ever Done (activerain.com)