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Purpose matters

By Adrian Knowles
04 October 2024 | 12 minute read
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In the frenetic and fiercely competitive world of real estate, purpose might appear as a luxury a nice-to-have rather than an essential.

However, sustaining a sense of purpose is not just important; it’s vital for long-term growth and success. Purpose acts as both a compass and an anchor, guiding us through turbulent times and grounding our efforts in something larger than profit margins.

The driving force behind enduring success

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Purpose is what distinguishes a successful real estate professional from a merely competent one. It’s the fuel that powers long-term success and the glue that holds a team together. When everyone in an organisation understands and believes in a shared purpose, it creates a collective drive that is nearly impossible to replicate. Purpose transforms ordinary business transactions into extraordinary client relationships, turning customers into advocates and employees into ambassadors.

The real estate market’s unique challenges

Real estate is an industry marked by high stakes and significant emotional investments. Buyers and sellers are making life-changing decisions, not just transacting property. For real estate professionals, having a clear sense of purpose can provide the empathy and understanding needed to guide clients through these pivotal moments. It’s easy to lose sight of purpose amid the pressures of quotas and competition. Yet, those who manage to keep their purpose front and centre find that it serves as a beacon, attracting clients who value integrity and professionalism.

Building trust through purpose

Trust is the bedrock of any successful real estate transaction. In an industry where reputation can make or break a career, purpose plays a crucial role in building and maintaining trust. When clients sense that their real estate agent is driven by a genuine desire to serve their best interests, rather than merely closing a deal, it fosters a deeper level of trust and loyalty.

The role of leadership in sustaining purpose

Purpose must originate from the top and permeate every level of the organisation. Leaders play a crucial role in articulating, exemplifying, and reinforcing the company’s purpose. They must ensure that it is more than just a statement on the wall, but a lived experience for every team member. I make it a point to communicate our purpose in every meeting, every strategy session, and every client interaction. It’s not just about what we do, but why we do it. This clarity helps us maintain focus and stay aligned with our core values.

Practical steps to embed purpose in your real estate practice

Articulate your purpose clearly: Ensure that your purpose is well-defined and communicated throughout your organisation. It should be specific enough to guide decisions but broad enough to inspire.

Lead by example: Demonstrate your commitment to your purpose in every action and decision. When leaders walk the talk, it sends a powerful message to the entire team.

Integrate purpose into daily operations: Look for ways to incorporate your purpose into everyday activities. This could mean prioritising client relationships over quick wins or investing in community-building initiatives.

Celebrate purpose-driven successes: Recognise and reward team members who exemplify the company’s purpose in their work. This reinforces the importance of purpose and encourages others to follow suit.

Keep the conversation alive: Regularly revisit and discuss your purpose to ensure it remains relevant and resonant. Encourage feedback and be open to evolving your purpose as needed.

We make it possible

Our purpose is to create meaningful relationships and deliver outstanding results, to make real estate dreams possible. This isn’t just a slogan it’s a commitment that drives every decision we make. In the realm of real estate, where the human element is paramount, maintaining a strong sense of purpose is not optional it’s essential. It drives trust, fosters enduring relationships, and ultimately leads to sustainable success. A purpose-driven approach is not just a strategy; it’s a way of being that can transform your practice and set you apart in a crowded market.

To every real estate professional out there, remember this: your purpose is your compass. Keep it in sight, and it will guide you to greater heights and deeper connections with your clients.

Adrian Knowles is the CEO of Harcourts.

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