It was an honor to have coffee the other day (at Dunkin’ Donuts, of course) with a legend in the real estate profession.
I’d heard of Michael J. Maher but knew little about him. We had some mutual friends from Kansas City, which is where he lives. Due to an intense work week in preparation of the release of John David Mann’s and my newest book, I wasn’t even able to make the 30 minute drive three towns up the road from me where he was speaking at a charity fundraising event. I felt terrible about that but knew I couldn’t be away for that long.
He found himself a car and drove down to meet me, after being stood up by the original person who had promised to drive him down.
Humble as can be, he was absolutely more interested in knowing about me and my work than he was in telling me about his. He asked genuinely inquisitive questions, and kindly shared his philosophy about business, those he works with, and the customers and clients he serves.
I found out from other people I spoke with afterward that he is one of real estate’s heavy hitters, a mega-producer who received over 500 referrals last year and accounted for 216 transactions!
This is in real estate, mind you; not exactly a booming industry these days. And all but three of those sales came by the traditional methods, no shortcuts.
I then heard an interview he did with my friend, Jim Sahnger. Easy to see why he’s so exceptional at what he does.
His business card has one statement on it that captures him and – as far as I’ve ever been able to tell – is the single biggest trait or characteristic that sets people like Michael apart from the rest of the pack. It said:
We’re not #1…YOU are. ®
In Part Two, we’ll dig a bit deeper into this one key factor and look at a few others that would seem to be more significant than they actually are.
Enjoy this post? Receive an update when our next post is published by entering your best email address below and clicking Get Updates.
Bob,
you need to know how great a guy Michael really is.
I contacted him out of the blue via facebook. He has been a great resource and long distance mentor to me. I would have left the business if not for the encouragement and advice from Michael. He truly embodies the go-giver mentality. I can’t wait to refer clients to him!!!
Best,
Justin
Bob,
Um wow. I was talking to another person about you and your book today (I’m referring the heck out of the book Go-Givers Sell More because EVERYONE should read it). He said, “I’m guessing you saw his blog today.” I said, “No.” I had not checked my messages yet and had meetings outside the office all day. First thing I did when I got back (now) was look this up. I am humbled. There are so many other people you could have profiled in your blog – deserving, awesome people. Please know your gesture and thoughtfulness are much appreciated. You walk the talk in the most wonderful way, my friend.
Michael
Bob, he is clearly a Go Giver! I loved your new book “Go Givers Sell More” and know it will make a huge impact on so many people’s way of thinking, both within and outside the sales industry. This should be an exciting week for you. Have fun!
Bob,
You are Awesome! I have been looking for a way to help a new friend who is a Realtor. I will foreword this post to her and follow up with her later in the week. Thank you for being amazing!
Joe
Michael, my pleasure. You embody the very principles contained in the books. While I don’t know Justin…Justin, the fact that you’d make that comment says much about you. And, Todd and Joe are both huge producers in their businesses, as well, and I happen to know they both operate via these same principles. Awesome!
Bob,
You’ve heard the saying “you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with”. Michael was the first person who shared that with me many years ago. I’m truly blessed to call him a friend, and whether he likes to admit it or not he’s also been a big influence on my life. We don’t always realize the potential that lies in each one of us so it takes Go-Givers like Michael and you to help guide our way. It will be a privilege to share the stage with both of you at your upcoming event in Kansas City.
Joyce
Damn, very nice website. I actually came across this on Bing, and I am happy I did. I will definately be revisiting here more often. Wish I could add to the conversation and bring a bit more to the table, but am just taking in as much info as I can at the moment.
Thank You
Houses for Sale in Drogheda
Proof that relationship selling is more important then knowing a hundred ways to overcome objections. We work with clients from many different industries and they all have one thing in common, a lack of understanding the importance of building relationships with their current customers, prospective customers and also their past ones.