Real Estate News

Veterans Understand Service

by David C. Dickey - Opinion & Commentary
Wednesday, May 23, 2012

This emphasis on service is something all REALTORS® should promote, since it encourages more repeat business and creates a positive image among current and future clients. To the extend that veterans can help in this endeavor, and they have plenty to contribute about building trust with staff and members of the public, the real estate industry should embrace these individuals. In fact, military veterans who work as brokers and agents apply their training to a multitude of circumstances. From their disciplined approach to work to their resourcefulness to their respectful attitude, veterans know that service - to their country and all manner of civilian duties - is a priority.

That belief in service is something that can transcend the temporary economic downturn. Meaning: the best way to avoid the problems associated with a depressed real estate market or a glut of inventory is with a return to basic principles, starting with service and a sincere interest in the needs of clients. Best of all, service does not cost more money, marketing dollars or personnel; it demands, instead, a commitment to being timely, informative, discreet, knowledgeable and accessible.

Veterans possess these skills - their military training demands it - and that expertise can improve the real estate industry. No doubt these strengths can help all businesses, but these advantages are at the center of the way people deal with the purchase and sale of residential and commercial properties. More importantly, a belief in service is also an embrace of branding. That is, the best companies - the brands that resonate with consumers and have a lasting impact on popular culture - share a common theme: service.

These brands put service at the forefront of everything. Far from being a meaningless pledge or boilerplate for a one-time announcement, these companies - some of which are in the real estate industry - have service permeate everything. There are no false barriers separating one group from another, as if service (and good relations with consumers) only confines itself to a single transaction or client.

By bringing more military veterans into this discussion, we have a chance to reshape the real estate industry and make a sound impression with buyers and sellers nationwide. Other professionals may possess many of these traits, but among veterans - among the men and women who wore the uniform - there is an abundance of talent. We should seek the wisdom of these individuals, since they can lead the real estate industry into a new era of success.

David C. Dickey is the CEO and founder of The Patriot Group, Inc. David is a former Marine Corps Officer and a two time Iraqi combat Veteran and Bronze Star recipient. He has become a highly sought after speaker and advisor for Veteran causes such as Disabled Veteran small businesses issues, Veteran military transition and training initiatives and other related Wounded Warrior and Veteran causes. Prior to becoming CEO of The Patriot Group, Inc. he was the President & COO of Alpha Ten Technologies, Inc. and co-founded & President of Patriot International, LLC.