Interpretations - Fact - Based versus Emotional

Every day, we all need to make certain judgments or take certain actions, based on our personal interpretation of certain facts. While ideally that interpretation should be open-minded and based on facts, often it is simply an emotional reaction, based on little more than our own personal bias or point of view.

Those involved in either real estate or financial services, must carefully review their reasoning, to assure they avoid over - reacting, rather than calmly analyzing the many possibilities and reasons! For example, what are prices based on, when one buys or sells a home? How is it determined on a value - based basis? When you buy or sell a stock or bond, are you doing so emotionally, based on a temporary (but often not that serious) situation, or are there technical reasons action is called for?
 
The ideal way to interpret any information is by carefully reviewing all the facts given, and then reviewing them for factual accuracy. The next thing to do is review the raw data, rather than someone else's interpretation of that data. Of course, this takes developing an expert skill - set, whereby one becomes capable of interpreting raw data. Interpreting data means first understanding where the actual data comes from, how it was supplied, and what methodology was used. If it is some sort of "sampling," it is important to know the size of the sampling, who gathered the data, how it was collected and collated, and what the "statistical error" is for that particular sampling (that is usually stated as being plus or minus a specific percentage). The next thing to do is to look at the actual questions or categories examined, and whether the way the question may have been worded could have been a possible factor in the skewing of the data. Then, one must analyze what the significance of this data is, or if it is relevant to what you are examining at all.

In examining the dynamics of not-for-profit organizations for several decades, I have observed that after a meeting, seminar, etc., many organizations feel the necessity to use some sort of questionnaire. It seems that these organizations feel that the feedback received via these questionnaires will be valuable in understanding the success or failure of the meeting. However, it has been found repeatedly that the wording of the questionnaire, the excitement of the group dynamics (especially right after a meeting), etc. unduly influence responses to these forms. In addition, many attendees cannot adequately identify the true needs that needed to be addressed by this seminar, so they are really simply stating whether they liked or disliked the meeting. If a meeting or seminar was goal-oriented and action-directed, the responses to these questionnaires are even less valuable, because how can an attendee who is not an expert on a particular subject, evaluate how well that topic was discussed.

There is nothing wrong with using questionnaires for obtaining certain types of limited information. Certainly, political organizations and candidates can use polling as a guide toward what their constituents want. However, if the purpose is measure how well someone learned information, most individuals are not the best judges of their own progress, especially when they are not perhaps sure what they needed to know, in the first place. A Realtor or financial services expert, can sometimes gain valuable input, by asking for feedback, and understanding and differentiating which factors are most relevant.

One must understand that their is a basic difference between something that is data-based, and something that is merely emotional. Unfortunately, most individuals are not equipped adequately to properly understand all the nuances.

When Life Hands Out Lemons, Wise Men Make Lemonade!

We all experience periods of bad times as well as periods of good. Individuals who adapt to misfortunes by learning from these experiences, and somehow benefiting, are generally both the happiest and the most successful. The adage, "Life is not a bowl of cherries" tells us that not everything will always work out the way we hope, or even anticipate, and to understand that limitation in order to best adapt to circumstances.

Think about this as it relates to either the real estate transaction process, or stock ownership! There often many obstacles and challenges in either scenario. In real estate, a balky or difficult buyer, seller, attorney, lending institution, title company, town (permits,etc), can often throw the proverbial monkey - wrench into the mix! When one chooses the best real estate professional for you, one of the factors to be considered, is how that individual will handle eventualities, challenges and obstacles. Will he perceive them as being challenges, or focus on problems, instead? Similarly, since, for example, stocks often fluctuate, do you seek a financial professional who consistently proceeds with your long - term plan, or one that panics, and buys and sells out of fear, etc>
 
Many people seem to enjoy complaining that life is unfair, and hasn't dealt them a fair hand. Realistically, life doesn't "deal," it simply offers us opportunities to either take advantage of, do nothing, or use poorly. There is never any guarantee in anything we do, but our "odds" of succeeding are distinctly enhanced when we take advantage of possibilities, improve our abilities, and upgrade our skill-set, rather than say, "I can't do that." Many individuals seem to prefer making excuses than taking the necessary actions to enhance skills that might be lacking (or need upgrading).

Obviously, not everyone can do writing or mathematics easily. All too many of those individuals, either due to frustration, inadequate training or education, or a "mental block," simply give up, and stop attempting to write or use mathematics, unless absolutely necessary. Others recognize their limitations, and use the opportunities offered to enhance their training, learn other skills, take training, or discipline themselves, and do to this added commitment, become "above par" in these areas.

A great example of using ones limitations, and "making lemonade when life deals you lemons," is how one might adapt to difficulty "keyboarding." Unfortunately, many, if not most individuals, handle this "obstacle" by using "avoidance techniques," and by avoiding using the keyboard, often neglect necessary tasks and duties, such as doing school or work assignments, as well as enjoying activities that comfort with using the keyboard would afford them. The individual who wants to "make lemonade," on the other hand, would find an alternative way of handling this circumstance. One such alternative might be installing and using "voice recognition software, such as Dragon software, or alternatives like Siri, Blackberry Assistant, Google Talk, or Microsoft's voice assisted application.. In that way, the obstacle of the use of the keyboard, whether due to a physical reason, a lack of patience, or some other disruptive "force," can not only be as productive as someone comfortable with the keyboard, but in many ways even more productive. This program permits one to use e-mail, word processing, PowerPoint, spreadsheets, etc., via the use of voice commands, instead of keyboards. The programs are easy to install, and easy to use, yet, of course require the individual to become familiar with the many features to fully take advantage of the program. For example, it is estimated that someone can "type" something approximately four times as quickly using voice commands than using the keyboard. Therefore, the individual who takes advantage of this alternative is using a potential obstacle, and instead of merely complaining about it, finds "another way" to function effectively.

In many areas of everyday life, we find tons of obstacles where we have choices - - either complain and be negative, or "think outside the box" and find a better way. Successful individuals do not give up, but rather find ways to get things done. Most things are possible if one thinks positively!

Improve Your Results By Improving Your Attitude!

We have all listened to people who appear to almost enjoy telling us about "problems," and "if" they could do this or that, or that something is "impossible.," or that they'll "try." Unfortunately, these non- productive, types of negative words generally generate negative thinking, and dramatically hinder anyone's ability to achieve to one's potential. When you select the best real estate or financial planner for you, it is important to choose someone who focuses on the best ways to do, rather than all the reasons (or excuses) why you can't or should not!
 
When one thinks about anything as a "problem," it is an unpleasant thought, bringing forth visions of misery, failure, disappointment, disillusionment, etc. It generates anxiety and stress, and is generally counter-productive in terms of enthusiasm, spirit, etc. However, if instead of thinking about a "problem," one thinks about a "challenge," and eliminates the word "problem" from one's vocabulary, replacing it with words like "challenge," "obstacle," etc., there is a much more positive approach capable of utilization. When one thinks of a "challenge," one thinks about a productive, do-able exercise, rather than an impossibility. Once one stops visualizing failure, the chances of success and true achievements are dramatically enhanced. Often, when I have given motivational and/ or sales training seminars, I begin by having participants, in large block letters, write on a piece of paper, "P-R-O-B-L-E-M," and then have them tear that paper into "a million pieces." I then have them think about the images conjured up by a problem versus those when one thinks of a challenge. While a challenge can be fun, and achievement and success can be visualized, that is not the case when one thinks of a problem! I then "forbid" the use of the word "problem," in my presence!
Think about someone who tells you that "they'll try" to do something. Rarely is anything productively done by that individual. Instead, surround yourself with people who will rather than with those that "try."

Remember that nothing that anyone else can achieve is "impossible." Something may require effort, "thinking outside the box," "challenging" oneself to do better and more, using a different approach, etc., but it is not impossible. Eliminate these types of negative words and this type of "stinkin' thinkin'."

Those that are the most productive and generally the most successful, and get results, have, for the most part, eliminated negative words and ideas and thoughts from their mindset. I challenge you to stop using those negative words, and after a few weeks evaluate the difference in your performance, attitude, and actions, objectively. Remember that most people would rather be around someone who is positive than someone negative, because negative people bring you down. Make these small changes, and challenge yourself to be all that you might be. Those that do will see improvement while those that remain negative, will never achieve to their potential!

7 Keys For Effective Negotiating

In nearly every aspect of our lives, we find a need to effectively utilize negotiating skills in order to perform to our potential. Negotiations is a useful and needed skill in our personal lives, in our business activities, and in nearly every one of our day to day activities. There are seven basic keys to become a competent and effective negotiator, which include: 1. Doing our homework; 2. Effective listening; 3. Clearly communicate what's needed; 4. Be as specific as possible; 5. Include as much as possible in the contract/ agreement; 6. Build in contingency clauses; and 7. Exhibiting absolute integrity. Considering how essential and relevant the quality and level of negotiating skills is to a real estate professional, prospective customers and clients (buyers and sellers) should carefully interview and discuss this topic, and ask them how their negotiating skills will best serve their clients, and to listen intently to specifics and approaches.
 
1. Homework refers to understanding the needs and positions, not only from your perspective, but from your adversary's perspective, as well. This process creates an understanding of what can and cannot be asked for, and why. It requires both a willingness as well as the ability to do the work and put in the effort that is required in advance.

2. Unless someone is willing to effectively listen, rather than simply speak at someone, he cannot effectively negotiate. When we negotiate, the goal must be achieving a deal that creates a win- win scenario, because all long lasting deals come to fruition only when both sides are satisfied with the results. Negotiating is never about trying to defeat an opponent!

3. Next, there is a need to clearly articulate and communicate what is needed, and why, so that there are no surprises, misconceptions, or inaccuracies. How can anyone possibly negotiate properly if both sides are not on the same side? This must include a thorough understanding of priorities, etc.

4. Effective negotiations require specificity. There is no use or purpose being vague during this process, because unless it is clear what you want to happen and need, you can never come to a meeting of the minds. When both sides understand each other, they can much better work together to come to a mutual,y acceptable agreement.

5. The result of the negotiations must be coming up with a contract agreement that is as inclusive as possible, including as much specificity and detail as possible. There is always the best chance of a fair deal before a contract is signed because both sides are then on equal footing, while after the contract is signed, one side might have an upper hand.

6. The basic rule of any deal made is that at some point, things happen. We can never foresee all possibilities, but it is wise to include as many contingency clauses as can be foreseen, in that initial and binding agreement. Professional negotiators always have back up plans!

7. When all is said and done, the main quality remains a commitment to the principles and ideals of absolute integrity. Without integrity, negotiations will invariably fail in the long run.

Successful negotiations must be based on mutual respect and understanding. When this is the approach, there is always significantly more cooperation between the parties, and thus a better end result. These principles and keys are needed, whether the negotiations are event related, labor contracts, business dealings, or intra- family arrangements, etc.

Why Attitude, and Technique, Must Go Hand - in - Hand?

One of the pitfalls that are often faced by individuals who have taken the time and effort to attend seminars and attempt to become more focused on enhancing and maintaining a positive attitude, is that they become disappointed when they do not receive instant gratification or instant results. The reality is that even the best attitude will only get you to the point where you have the chance to optimize your results and best approach your optimal potential. Unless this positivity is used synergistically with the best techniques, one will still face stumbling blocks and limitations. Therefore, if we wish to be the best that we can be, we need to improve and enhance your skill set and techniques, in conjunction with maintaining a positive attitude. When a proactive can - do attitude is combined with, and used alongside training, learning, understanding and actually using the best possible techniques, one will be challenged in his attempt to reach the heights of his potential. From a practical standpoint, one is helped when their real estate, or financial professional has a positive, can - do attitude, but it must be more than merely rhetorical, if it is to have a needed impact and desirable result!
 
1. A great and positive attitude is only truly useful when it becomes a nearly automatic and inherent part of one's persona. There is a big difference between having rose - colored glasses, and a true purposeful and focused attitude. Greatness nearly always begins with having a positive attitude because unless someone begins by believing he can succeed, he will never put forth his best effort. However, he must truly believe his positivity, because no purpose is served by being merely a cheerleader and repeating so me empty rhetoric, but must be the approach we maintain on a regular and consistent basis.

2. However, just being positive will only take someone so far. This positivity must drive and individual to persist and persevere when others give up, and help to transform obstacles and challenges to planning and proactivity. The adage that if you think you can, that you will, is also dependent on using that positive attitude to drive you to learn, gain and use needed skills. Far too often, we observe individuals who use positive rhetoric, without driving themselves to become more skillful. Because of this, we must begin to refocus on the need to combine the right attitude with a yearning for knowledge and enhancing one's skills and techniques.

A positive attitude is the necessary first step in becoming more capable because it creates a mindset of approaching things and doing things that negativity might obstruct. However, unless this is accompanied by learning and using skills and techniques proficiently and optimally, there is little true and meaningful growth.

Did You Fail to Plan, or PLAN to Fail? - It's Up To You!!

How often do you personally do this, or observe others following this type of behavior?: Something goes in a less than optimal manner, and you focus on your bad luck, lack of success, or complain about how unfair it is since you worked, and/ or tried so hard. While from a self - protective perspective that may make us termporarily feel somewhat better or relieve some of that notorious steam, the reality is invariably that when we either resort to blaming others or situations, we are nearly always doing ourselves an injustice by sucumbing to weakness. For those involved in the profession of real estate or financial planning, do you consider alternatives and make back - up plans to address contingencies, or do you proceed incompletely, and then blame bad luck, etc., for less than optimum results? The only true way to maximize one's chances to be a success in anything is committing to, and mastering the art and science of developing and using a PLAN!

1. Before beginning, one must consider, understand, and perceive of the true purpose that one wishes to achieve. When was the last time you took the time and made the effort to understand and create priorities, and then go forward in a directed manner towards developing well - thought out programs. This effort is rarely always easy, but is essential for success, and thus must be done with a continuous persistence and the mindset to persevere.

2. No one ever gets his desired results every time! However, the most successful individuals always learn lessons from their experiences. The adage that one must make mistakes to accomplish is only true if one truly learns from these mistakes, and does not repeat them. Successful performance and achievement nearly always accompanies the desire to lead by example (practice what one preaches).

3. When a positive and helpful attitude is combined with, and used in unison with constantly seeking the optimal aptitude, he will approach things with the mindset and willingness to proceed with timely action. Only when these are done synergistically, will one have the best opportunity to succeed to the highest degree!

4. Do you take the time to know needs (both yours as well as others that you interact with), and have you developed the inner strength and fortitude that is needed? When one commits to the never give up perspective, he will persist while others surrender. Many great achievements and accomplishes have occurred predominantly because someone continued to seek answers and solutions, while lesser individuals surrendered. This often requires a truly nuanced approach, where the understanding and approach is not the one - size - fits - all type, but rather that each circumstance has its individual circumstances, etc.

You can either blame others or circumstances because you failed to accomplish what you believed you should have, or you can commit to consistently plan. When this planning includes contingency plans, one potentiates his possibilities!

5 Components for Marketing Yourself

Most would agree that marketing is perhaps the most, if not one of the most essential ingredients for success in nearly every field of endeavor. Why do you think that the largest and most successful corporations spend so much time, effort and resources on marketing themselves, and attempting to create a specific and unique brand, that creates an attractive niche and compelling story? Since all of us, regardless of what we do, are involved in some sort of selling, it is important to understand what is needed to successfully market ourselves. Whether someone is a doctor, lawyer, salesperson, teacher, or stay - at - home mom, success requires selling every day. We either sell a product, a service, or ourselves, but we do sell! Since the advent and increased popularity of the internet, however, many people have abandoned the previous fundamentals of marketing, and begun to rely exclusively on the Web. However, success means using a broad - based, multi - media campaign, where we maintain a common focus throughout, in order to distinguish ourselves, thus creating a niche that develops our personal, quality, respected brand. While there are many possible components, those who seek to effectively market themselves should both understand and utilize these five components listed below. Those involved either in financial services/ planning, or are real estate professionals, should take an objectively introspective look at themselves, and ask, how they distinguish themselves from others, and how would their personal brand be described, and perceived by those one hopes to impress, and thus win - over!
 
1. Don't abandon direct mail and snail mail. There are still many individuals who prefer being contacted that way, and effective mailing pieces that enhance our brand, are key. However, cost containment requires doing this wisely, so make sure that you study the best and most effective way to use this, including your mailing list, types of piece, etc.

2. Use email and texts judicially and wisely. Under - utilization will have no impact, and overuse will strike many as a form of spam. Make sure that you use these forms when appropriate, but don't become overly reliant on them.

3. While a strong Social Media presence is wise and needed, don't fall into the trap of assuming that because you posted something here, there is widespread communication going on. The most effective usage is generally having links to compelling information, so that others will be interested. Don't either over or under - post, and remember that you must use these in coordination with the overall brand you wish to create and develop.

4. What is the feeling someone gets when they look at your Website? How easy is it to locate, and what does it say about you? Does it enhance your brand? Does the message being sent say what you are trying to communicate? Have you looked into SEO (Search Engine Optimization)?

5. Far too many individuals today build artificial walls by relying too heavily on these methods, while ignoring or nearly ignoring the all - essential methods of professionally using the telephone, and getting out and being face - to - face, with your potential constituents, stakeholders or desired audience. Therefore, it is very important to become professional in these methodologies.

Don't use one of these components, while overlooking others. Those that want to market themselves to their fullest potential, and thus get the best results, need to use the discipline to use all of these. Always remember, that the most important self - marketing is how you present yourself face - to - face!