Proper time management is imperative to being successful in UAE real estate, and it is often one of the most underrated skills as well. Unlike office workers, real estate agents tend to operate more like independent contractors and are ultimately responsible for their success or lack thereof, meaning that how you manage your time is actually of the utmost importance.
One thing we stress at Bayut Academy is only doing things that contribute to your success as a real estate agent. And it’s worth looking at a strategy that Gary Keller introduced when discussing time management: Leads, Listings and Leverage. In a nutshell, agents should focus on generating leads and listings and leverage the low-value activities to non-agent support. But how can you manage your time to focus on leads and listings?
In this edition of Bayut Academy, we’re bringing you seven time management tips to help you succeed as a property agent.
CREATE TO-DO LISTS
This is simple, yet so few people actually use effective to-do lists. When prepared the evening before, to-do lists save time by focusing your attention on the most important tasks to do in order to secure leads and listings.
BEING PROACTIVE AND GETTING THE JOB DONE!
Having a smart approach to menial tasks can make or break an agent. Many people find emails and phone calls to be menial tasks. However, successful agents schedule their emails and calls and keep on top of their clients. Being late on a call or slow to respond to an email can cost an agent business so make sure you schedule your calls and emails and follow up accordingly.
STOP MULTITASKING
Multitasking is a myth and no one is good at it. Successful agents focus on one thing at a time and give their full attention to each task they do. While it is tempting to take a call while driving, text a client during a company meeting or make calls while updating listings, doing so actually distracts you from successfully accomplishing tasks. Slow down and focus on one thing at a time and focus on generating leads and listings.
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KNOW THE VALUE OF TIME
So we said no multi-tasking above. However, take advantage of those snippets of time you have. Waiting for a client who is running late? No problem, thanks to your handy to-do list you can use so-called “unproductive” time to your advantage. Return emails, calls, finish up paperwork, study the latest Dubai property market reports, etc.
SET GOALS
It’s really hard to achieve what you want if you don’t know really know what you want. There is a huge difference between “I want to make a lot of money this year” and “My goal is to make to make AED 700,000 by selling 24 properties in the next 12 months.” Regularly check where you are against your goal and make adjustments as need be.
SCHEDULE TIME OFF
To-do lists and a schedule are imperative. And so is scheduling time off. You are human and are allowed family time and off time. Schedule this time and find a buddy at work who will take your calls when you are off and vice-versa. Time off is vital to keeping your fresh and maintaining a positive attitude.
NETWORK TO FIND LEADS AND LISTINGS
Referrals and networking are great sources of qualified leads, and top agents are constantly working the field to find leads and listings. Use your time effectively to branch out and get yourself in front of people who are looking to sell, buy or rent a property in Dubai. There are a number of meetup groups, networking events and professional activities that can help build your network.
While you may not follow a typical 9-5 job in real estate, a well-defined approach to time management will allow you to achieve success and be the boss of your own success.
Do you struggle with time management feel like you could use some tips? Join us for a session at Bayut Academy and enhance your skills that can take your career forward. Our interactive sessions also give real estate agents in the country to network and gain opportunities.