Julia Lashay Israel from Keller Williams advises choosing not to be offended and having conflict resolution strategies in place when discussing politics with clients. It’s important to stay calm, acknowledge differences in opinions, and shift the conversation to other topics.
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Discussing politics with clients as a real estate agent requires tact, respect, and professionalism. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. Know your audience
Understand that some clients may enjoy political discussions while others prefer to avoid them. Listen respectfully if a client brings up politics, and actively listen to their views without immediately sharing your own. Pay attention to cues to gauge their comfort level with the topic.
2. Focus on the business relationship
Building trust is essential in real estate, so it’s best to focus on shared interests and goals rather than political affiliations. Concentrate on helping clients achieve their real estate goals and maintain a professional relationship.
3. Consider relevance to real estate
Only engage in political discussions that are relevant to the client’s interests or your professional relationship. Stick to facts and objective information related to real estate market factors.
4. Lead with respect and professionalism
Always show respect for differing opinions and maintain a professional demeanor. Avoid contentious debates or derogatory comments about political figures.
5. Avoid controversy
Set clear boundaries for appropriate topics and avoid discussing highly controversial political issues. If disagreements arise, choose not to be offended and shift the conversation to more neutral topics.
In summary, discussing politics with clients should be approached cautiously and professionally by focusing on real estate, maintaining neutrality, and respecting boundaries to strengthen client relationships and ensure a positive transaction experience.
As the head of inclusion and belonging at Keller Williams Realty International, Julia Lashay Israel provides guidance, training, and coaching to leaders, team members, and agents on recognizing and addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion issues within the organization. By incorporating these insights, you can effectively engage in political discussions with clients while upholding professionalism and respect.