Choose not to be offended. Develop appropriate conflict resolution strategies. Stay calm, acknowledge differences of opinion, and then move on to other topics, writes Julia Rashe Israel of Keller Williams.
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For real estate agents, discussing politics with clients can be a delicate matter. Political discussions with clients require tact, respect, and professionalism. By following these guidelines, you can maintain positive customer relationships while avoiding the potential pitfalls associated with political conversations.
Here are some key points to consider:
1. Know your audience
Some clients enjoy and want to participate in political discussions, while others may prefer to avoid these discussions entirely. If a client raises a political issue, listen respectfully. Recognize that clients come from different backgrounds and may have different political views.
If their perspective differs from yours, be curious and actively listen to your customer’s perspective rather than immediately responding to your own. If you initiate a conversation, pay attention to verbal and nonverbal cues to gauge whether the customer is comfortable with the topic.
Consider the nature of your relationship with your client. Long-term relationships may have more leeway, while new or more formal relationships may require more caution.
2. Focus on business relationships
Participating in political conversations can be risky. Building trust is critical in real estate. Political discussions can be polarizing and can undermine the trust you have built. It is often best to build relationships through shared interests and goals rather than political affiliation. Emphasize non-political topics relevant to your relationship or collaboration.
be sure Put your customers’ priorities first. Focus on helping them achieve their real estate goals, whether buying, selling, or investing, and focus the conversation on the client’s needs, property details, market conditions, and other real estate-related topics.
3. Consider relevance to real estate
Make sure any political discussions are relevant to the client’s interests or the nature of your professional relationship. For example, it may be appropriate to discuss policy changes that directly impact customer buying or selling decisions.
When discussing policies that directly affect real estate (property taxes, zoning laws, housing regulations), stick to the facts and discuss broader economic factors (interest rates, market trends) in a neutral manner. Provide insights into how these policies may affect markets. Providing objective, fact-based information about the real estate market without injecting personal political views.
4. Lead with respect and professionalism
Always be respectful and professional. Respect different opinions. Acknowledge the customer’s perspective even if you disagree. Avoid controversial debates or derogatory comments about any political figure or party.
Please understand your company’s policy regarding political discussion. Many real estate companies have guidelines to ensure agents maintain a neutral and professional demeanor.
5. Avoid controversy
Expressing strong opinions may cause discomfort or conflict. Set clear boundaries for appropriate topics. Avoid discussing highly controversial or polarizing political topics that could create tension. If you choose to discuss politics, it’s usually best to maintain a neutral stance to avoid alienating or offending your client, especially if you’re not sure whether the client might have a different point of view.
Be prepared to agree to disagree. Not every conversation needs to be resolved, maintaining a professional relationship is more important. If a disagreement arises, choose not to be offended and develop a strategy for resolving the conflict. Remain calm, acknowledge the difference of opinion, and move on to other topics.
If the conversation starts to get too heated or uncomfortable, politely move the conversation to a more neutral topic, such as a shared interest or business-related matter.
For example, “I appreciate your perspective. Let’s focus on finding you the perfect home.
For real estate agents, discussing politics with clients should be done discreetly and professionally. Keeping the conversation focused on the real estate, remaining neutral, and respecting client boundaries can help maintain and strengthen client relationships.
Your primary goal should always be to meet your clients’ real estate needs and ensure a positive and successful transaction experience. By keeping these points in mind, you can conduct political discussions with clients in a way that maintains professionalism and respect.
As Director of Inclusion and Belonging at Keller Williams Realty International, Julia Lashay Israel advises, trains and coaches leaders, team members and agents to recognize and address diversity, equity and inclusion opportunities and opportunities throughout the organization. challenge.
