From the desk of 2019 RRC President Richard Waystack, CRS
During my years in real estate, so many CRS colleagues have been good to me—and my RRC network brought out the leader in me. So, when I was elected to serve as the Council’s 2020 president, I accepted the position as an honor and privilege.
Lately, it seems as if I’m often asked, “What do you want to accomplish?” My immediate plan is to take a long look at how the disrupters out there are changing our industry—and then, with our Leadership Team, make sure that our strategic plan is ready to meet the needs of all of our members. On a personal level, I have an unwavering commitment to help my fellow CRSs succeed in this evolving industry.
It’s time for us all to expand beyond the “Golden Rule” and embrace the “Platinum Rule.” It’s no longer enough to treat others as we wish to be treated. Today, the client’s needs are paramount to our own and we as REALTORS® need to treat people as they want to be treated. The Platinum Rule is about understanding what motivates a client—what do they need, how do they want to communicate and how can we help them understand the world of real estate. We have to develop the way we think about a client—buyer or seller or, in our case, member—so we recognize their motives and can respond accordingly. That’s something disrupters cannot offer.
In addition, we have a unique opportunity to look beyond our own backyard. Our Sell-a-bration conference next February will include a huge contingency from Spain and Italy. Our global reach is expanding dramatically. It’s an opportunity to learn what buyers and sellers on different continents are doing, what they want and how we can serve their needs. By networking with our international CRS brethren, the opportunities to further our referral networks are unlimited.
In the coming year we shall let everyone know that becoming a CRS is far more than earning the designation. Through RRC education, networking and referrals, it’s an opportunity to expand beyond expectations. Our goal is to make sure the updated strategic plan spells this out for every designee, every member and every REALTOR® who avails themselves of our education. The opportunities are there for the taking. Let’s exceed expectations!
