Avoid Undermining Your Expertise with Diminishing Language
As a real estate professional, every interaction you have with clients, prospects and colleagues shapes their perception of your expertise, confidence and value. One common habit that can unintentionally undermine your professionalism is the use of diminishing language, particularly the word "just."
For instance, starting a conversation with, "I was just calling today to check in," might seem polite or unassuming, but it subtly minimizes your role and the importance of your message. This phrasing can inadvertently suggest that what you have to say is less significant, even if the information you're sharing is valuable.
Instead of using language that diminishes your authority, focus on confident and direct phrasing. For example, rather than saying, "I was just calling to follow up on your inquiry," you might say, "I'm following up on your inquiry to provide you with the information you need." Similarly, instead of saying, "I just wanted to touch base to see how things are going," you could say, "I'm reaching out to check in and see how I can help you move forward."
By removing "just" and similar phrases from your language, you convey a sense of confidence, purpose and respect for your own time and expertise. These are qualities that inspire trust and credibility in your professional relationships. Every conversation is an opportunity to establish yourself as a trusted advisor rather than merely an option among many.
Present yourself with the same assurance and professionalism you would bring to the closing table. Small changes in your language can have a significant impact on how others perceive you and how you perceive yourself.
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