Why agents need to pay it forward

When was the last time you “paid it forward?”

As independent contractors, some real estate agents may feel like they are in constant competition for business. As broker-owners, these business leaders might have a packed schedule and simply not enough hours in a day.

Regardless of the level you are at in your real estate career, I want to encourage you to find ways to “pay it forward” in your real estate business.

Paying it forward can be done in many ways. You can use your expert knowledge to host a free homebuying seminar to educate first-time buyers.

You can spend a couple hours helping a fellow real estate agent who needs a second opinion with a new listing. Or maybe you decide to invite a new struggling agent to your open house to show them the ropes.

Although networking and relationship-building are big parts of the real estate industry, it is important to remember this concept should be done with a selfless spirit. Help someone without expecting anything in return. The goal with paying it forward is that the person receiving the good deed goes on to do something good for someone else.

Here are four reasons real estate agents should “pay it forward.”

1. Paying it forward sparks kindness and compassion. If someone does something kind for you, most likely, you will be inspired to do something nice as well. It simply makes the world a better place.
2. It introduces you to new people who might change your life for the better, both emotionally and financially. People you might never meet under other circumstances could become pivotal people in your tribe. As agents, relationships are crucial. Imagine how these relationships might lead to new clients to help maintain and grow your business.
3. Generosity is remembered. Consider providing referrals without any expectations. If someone you know does a good job, connect them with your contacts. When you help someone with a dilemma, your good deed will be memorable. And when someone is looking for a trustworthy real estate agent, they will remember your kindness.
4. If you practice “paying it forward” regularly, you will grow creativity! Giving back to others can be done in so many ways. It pushes you to use your imagination. It forces you to step out of your comfort zone. You never know the domino effect of what your random act of kindness may then inspires the next person in line to do!

In the words of Mother Teresa, “If you can’t feed 100 people, feed just one.” I challenge you to pay it forward. Do something that makes the world a better place and helps your fellow real estate community.

Joshua Lybolt is president and co-founder of Lifstyl Real Estate. You can follow him on LinkedIn or YouTube.