Peak Performance … The Rest of the Story!

My last two Zebra Reports have focused on peak performance, and the 27 attributes I’ve identified that help predict peak performance. Remember, I believe that there are three areas of focus for peak performers: Attitude and mindset Action and implementation Systems and tools Two weeks ago I covered the 14 predictors of peak performance relative [...]

peak-performance peak-performance

Peak Performance … Part 2!

Last week I spoke about the concept of peak performance, and some of the attributes that define peak performers.  Today I want to continue that discussion. Remember, peak performers are those individuals who have developed and leveraged their skill sets in order to achieve the maximum potential results in their area of expertise.   Peak performers [...]

peak-performer peak-performer

Peak Performance…

I’m going to be releasing another white paper this month, and the topic is “peak performance”. Peak performance is a term that gets tossed around a lot as the ultimate state of performance, but as I researched my white paper I found that what actually contributes to peak performance often isn’t fully explored. So let’s [...]

peak-performance peak-performance

Paint the 2012 Picture You Deserve!

It’s the first week of January, and we all find ourselves facing the prospect of a new year. Some people look at a blank canvas with fear and trepidation.  Others are thrilled at the prospect of starting fresh and creating something special. I want to encourage you to look at 2012 as your personal blank [...]

paint paint

Looking Back … and Looking Forward

Every year in December I take time to look back at what the year has brought … and forward to what our industry can expect in the coming year. 2011 was another year of turmoil when we most needed stability.  Civil unrest continued at high levels in many locations around the world.  Many countries and [...]

economy economy

Peak Performance … The Rest of the Story!

Posted by Denise Lones on January 26th, 2012
peak-performance

My last two Zebra Reports have focused on peak performance, and the 27 attributes I’ve identified that help predict peak performance.

Remember, I believe that there are three areas of focus for peak performers:

  1. Attitude and mindset
  2. Action and implementation
  3. Systems and tools

Two weeks ago I covered the 14 predictors of peak performance relative to attitude and mindset … and last week I shared my thoughts on action and implementation, and the nine predictors of peak performance in that category.

Today I want to talk about the way peak performers use systems and tools.  And I will wrap up this series with a discussion about another important area of focus for peak performers. Read more »

Design Spotlight: “Budding Willow”

Posted by Denise Lones on January 26th, 2012
budding-willow

Understated design with a natural flair – that’s the beauty of our “Budding Willow” design. The neutral, natural palette allows you to showcase your listings while still conveying a sense of quality.

Designs with silhouetted images provide for a high level of legibility – always a plus when you’re sharing information with clients.

Read more »

Ask Denise: Selecting a Video Camera

Posted by Denise Lones on January 26th, 2012
Denise Lones

Q:   I’m going to take your advice and start using video in my business.  However, I’m stymied by the huge number of choices when it comes to a camera.  Can you please give me a few suggestions on what kind of camera to buy?

A:   The first thing you will want to do is determine what features are most important to you.  Audio quality?  Battery life?  Price?   Once you have a handle on that, do some preliminary research.  A great resource for product information is the Consumer Reports magazine (you can find it at libraries and online) or an online site called CNET.com, which reviews tech products.  After you’ve done some basic research, I suggest heading into a store to handle the different cameras.  Find a knowledgeable salesperson, and ask lots of questions!

We recently purchased the Sony HDR-XR160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder, and have been very pleased with it so far.  I hope this helps!

Peak Performance … Part 2!

Posted by Denise Lones on January 19th, 2012
peak-performer

Last week I spoke about the concept of peak performance, and some of the attributes that define peak performers.  Today I want to continue that discussion.

Remember, peak performers are those individuals who have developed and leveraged their skill sets in order to achieve the maximum potential results in their area of expertise.   Peak performers are found in all socio-economic classes, all over the world.  Neither race, nor gender, nor sexual orientation is a barrier to peak performance.

You might also remember from my last post that I firmly believe that peak performers are not born … they are created.  Yes, a natural gift or aptitude is extraordinarily helpful in achieving peak performance.  But peak performance is a set of learned skills and behaviors.  Read more »

Ask Denise: Finding Your Niche

Posted by Denise Lones on January 19th, 2012
Denise Lones

Q:   I read what you said a couple of weeks ago about having a niche market, and I’m interested in what you mean when you say that agents make the mistake of working as “generalists”.  I definitely want to make more money in 2012.

A:   Think about any profession … doctors, for example.  Do plastic surgeons or cardiac specialists make more than general practitioners?  Absolutely!  I know real estate isn’t medicine, but the premise is the same.  Some of the most successful agents I know are the ones who carve out a niche for themselves.  Obvious examples are waterfront specialists, or luxury home specialists.  And yes, these agents make more money because those properties typically command a higher price point.  But what about specializing in working with clients who are divorcing, clients who are musicians, or clients who are in MENSA?  Find that niche, and market the heck out of it.  There are lots of possibilities – you just have to open your mind to them!

Design Spotlight: “African Dreams”

Posted by Denise Lones on January 19th, 2012
african-dreams

Bold imagery, and a strong color story, combine to create the “African Dreams” brand.  This high-impact brand includes a strong name treatment and a bold yet serene backdrop to help highlight all you have to offer your clients.  You won’t be forgotten when potential clients see this design!

Read more »

Peak Performance…

Posted by Denise Lones on January 12th, 2012
peak-performance

I’m going to be releasing another white paper this month, and the topic is “peak performance”.

Peak performance is a term that gets tossed around a lot as the ultimate state of performance, but as I researched my white paper I found that what actually contributes to peak performance often isn’t fully explored.

So let’s talk a little about the elusive concept of “peak performance”.

Peak performers are those individuals who have developed and leveraged their skill sets in order to achieve the maximum potential results in their area of expertise. Read more »

Ask Denise: Price Reductions

Posted by Denise Lones on January 12th, 2012
denise

Q:   Denise, two of the five sellers I’m working with are absolutely unwilling to reduce the price on their listings.  One has been on the market for almost a year.  I am at my wits end and need help to know what to say to them.

A:   I don’t know how you set the stage for price reductions when you took the listing, but I’m guessing that wasn’t part of your presentation or you wouldn’t be in the pickle you are today.  So let’s assume you didn’t set up a plan for when and how to adjust price during the listing period.  If you know that your sellers need to reduce the price, don’t beg and don’t fight – simply provide them data that supports your request.  Key information will include an analysis of days-on-market (this listing as compared to the market), price per square foot analyses for the neighborhood and for the style of home, a competitive analysis (you should be sharing new active, pending, and solds with your sellers every week), and information on absorption rates and ratios.  If you don’t know how to calculate these last two pieces of information, take a peek at my “Pricing System” for more help.

Design Spotlight: Nina Bjornstal

Posted by Denise Lones on January 12th, 2012
design-nina

A muted palette with nuanced details was the perfect fit for Nina Bjornstal’s brand.

An approachable agent skilled at explaining the complexities of today’s real estate transactions, Nina wanted a brand that emphasized her low-key, low-drama approach to the home buying and selling process.

A brand like Nina’s highlights her polished and professional approach to life.  The green and tan palette — colors which are considered balancing  and orderly — accurate reflect the experience clients can expect when working with Nina.

Nina loves her new brand, and is excited about the development of the many collateral pieces she’ll be receiving in our EVOLVE coaching program. Read more »

Paint the 2012 Picture You Deserve!

Posted by Denise Lones on January 5th, 2012
paint

It’s the first week of January, and we all find ourselves facing the prospect of a new year.

Some people look at a blank canvas with fear and trepidation.  Others are thrilled at the prospect of starting fresh and creating something special.

I want to encourage you to look at 2012 as your personal blank canvas, and to act as the artist for whatever kind of business you want (or need) to create.  I find it helpful to look at your business this way because doing so allows you to take creative control over your work. Read more »

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