What’s So Hard About Returning A Phone Call?
I’m more than a little OCD about being available for my clients.
That includes using only one direct phone number (208)938-5533 (my home office number) to ensure that no human being or voicemail tree can screw things up when someone wants to talk to me.
Then, I use Call Forwarding to redirect phone calls to my SmartPhone when I’m out of my office to avoid missed calls.
Unless I am working with a client or engaged in a bodily function, I personally answer all calls with the usual “This is Phil!” when someone calls.
Actually, I have had several transactions that began with a call while in the Costco bathroom, but that should probably be the topic of another post in the way distant future.
Memo to Phil: When business gets slow, go to Costco.
There is one exception, though, and that is that I will not place your call on hold while I take another call ~ I think that’s rude.
And, I promptly return all calls and e-mails (I push my e-mail to my Treo SmartPhone too) and even check the call log and call people back even if they didn’t leave a message.
Which brings me to the point of this rant.
What is so hard about returning a phone call, anyway?
The National Association of Realtors® has repeatedly identified “lack of communication” as the #1 reason why clients aren’t thrilled with their real estate agent.
Yet, when I call another agent to elicit feedback after they have shown one of my listings, I almost always have to leave a message and I rarely get a returned call.
Small wonder why so many agents are struggling in our current, slower market.
Gee, guys, if you figured out how to answer your phone and return calls, someone just might do business with you?
But, then, maybe my responsive service is why I’m so busy that I don’t have a life these days.
May 28th, 2008 Posted in Uncategorized
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