Leading By Example

@ Rogers Healy

Rogers Healy is using video streaming and conferencing tools to stay connected to his team.

Our world is going through the kind of disruption that will change it forever. It has already altered the way many of us run our real estate companies. As CEO and broker-owner of Rogers Healy Companies in the Dallas-Forth Worth area, it has been crucial for me to take action and do my part to protect my employees and agents and mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

I am closely monitoring the outbreak of COVID-19 and its impact on the communities we serve. Although we do not have any confirmed cases among our agents or team members, my fellow company leaders and I are strongly encouraging them to join us as we monitor and follow guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the National Association of REALTORS®’ guidance for members.

Along with the obvious safety precautions, such as washing hands, social distancing, staying updated on the news, and closing my physical offices, it has been crucial for me to encourage and inspire my team to work harder and smarter than ever. Our physical office locations may look different, but the fire that’s kept us going in the 15 years we’ve been operating is burning brighter and stronger. We are creating new strategies that allow us to work remotely and are prioritizing our efficiency like never before.

I quickly realized the importance of spearheading this effort. I touch base with my team several times a day, holding them accountable, but mostly just encouraging them to dominate in our market. As an old-school, Tony Robbins-style leader, I quickly became agile in the approach of doing this all online—through email, social media, and Zoom calls, to name a few. We have clients who have chosen to work with us and are continuing to count on us to follow through with all that we have promised. Some have let fear and worry creep into their mindset, but we are counteracting that by working around the clock to ensure clients that we are doing our best to keep their transactions afloat and moving at as close to a normal pace as possible.

The world of real estate is especially tricky right now. Mortgage rates are lower than they have ever been, but people have also self-isolated themselves at home. So how will they jump at the chance to purchase a new house, let alone shop for one? We have put several strategies in place to help make this happen.

First of all, technology is a huge blessing. We are offering virtual home tours by shooting high-quality videos and sharing them online via YouTube and sending directly to prospective buyers, ensuring that they can get as much insight and information as possible on properties of interest. We are active online and on social media 24/7. Our online presence is always strong, but we are taking it to the next level by posting and connecting with our audience—all day, every day—giving them relevant, informative, and entertaining content. It’s truly amazing what you can accomplish virtually, and we are beginning to reap the benefits of doing so because we’re engaging with our clients more than ever before.

It may feel like a time to give up, stop working, and have little to no hope. I have fully accepted the responsibility of leading differently. If my confidence drops, so will my team’s. I refuse to let that happen. I am staying glued to the news and glued to my people—even if it is through FaceTime, phone calls, and emails.

The saying goes: Tough times don’t last, tough people do. To the real estate community: We are going to survive, and we are going to thrive. We’ve got this.