Real estate agents know that time holds a significant value in their work. And nothing is more frustrating than waiting for a client who is always late. Not only does it throw off your entire schedule, but it can also leave a bad impression on potential buyers or sellers. So, how can you deal with clients that are always late?
Allison Green, a well-known career expert at Ask a Manager, suggests that if a client consistently makes you wait after you have carved out time for them, it is important to recognize that their behavior is disrespectful of your time. Setting boundaries and refusing to accommodate their last-minute requests may be reasonable going forward.
Let’s look at some ways you can deal with clients who’re always late and save yourself valuable time and energy.
Set Clear Expectations
Clear communication of punctuality expectations and consequences is essential from the start of the client-agent relationship. It’s important to explain the reasons why punctuality is crucial, such as respect for others’ time and efficient use of time.
Communicate the consequences of lateness respectfully and explain how they help both parties make the most of their appointment. Consistency is key, so ensure that the client understands the policies on tardiness and their consequences. By setting clear expectations and consequences, you can foster a culture of punctuality and avoid consistently late clients.
Offer Flexible Scheduling
Offering flexible scheduling options is an excellent way to accommodate clients’ busy schedules. This approach can foster a positive client-agent relationship and make it easier for clients to show up on time.
Some examples of flexible scheduling include offering appointments during evenings or weekends or providing virtual appointments. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the scheduling remains manageable and doesn’t interfere with other meetings or work commitments.
By being cooperative with scheduling, you can demonstrate your commitment to your client’s needs while maintaining time management and productivity.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Technology can be an effective tool to prevent lateness and improve the client-agent relationship. Appointment reminders sent through email, text messages, or phone calls can help clients remember their scheduled appointments and arrive on time. GPS navigation can also be used to help clients navigate to your office location, especially if they are unfamiliar with the area.
There are various apps and tools available that can assist with scheduling and communication, such as scheduling software, project management apps, and video conferencing tools. You can streamline the appointment scheduling process with the help of technology and help ensure that clients show up on time.
Stay Calm and Professional
Even though dealing with clients that are always late can be stressful, it’s essential to remain calm and professional. Don’t take it personally, and avoid showing frustration or annoyance. Instead, focus on maintaining boundaries and upholding expectations while providing quality customer service.
When a client is late, let him know the impact it has on the rest of your day and work together to find a solution that works for both parties. It’s also important to follow up after the appointment and express your appreciation for their time and commitment to being punctual in the future. Adopting a professional attitude can maintain a positive relationship with your clients and provide them with the best possible service.
Address Chronic Lateness
When dealing with clients who are consistently late despite your efforts, it can be frustrating and challenging to know what to do. However, it’s important to address this issue in a respectful and effective manner to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some tips to help:
- Start by having an honest and open conversation with the client about their lateness. Use “I” statements to express how their lateness affects you and your work rather than placing blame on them.
- Listen to their perspective and try to understand any underlying issues causing their tardiness.
- Work together to come up with a solution that is mutually beneficial. This could include adjusting meeting times, using technology to set reminders, or finding alternative ways to communicate.
- Set clear boundaries and consequences for continued lateness while maintaining a professional and respectful demeanor.
- It’s essential to follow through on any consequences you set, such as rescheduling or discontinuing the relationship, to uphold the importance of punctuality.
Educate Clients on the Importance of Punctuality
It’s essential to educate your clients on how being punctual can be beneficial for their own interests as well as for the real estate industry. You can start by emphasizing how punctuality can help them make the most of their time and keep the home-buying or selling process on track.
Moreover, remind them that punctuality shows respect for your time and professionalism, which can lead to a better working relationship and a smoother transaction process overall.
To educate clients on the importance of punctuality, try to use positive and productive language. Avoid shaming or blaming them for lateness; instead, focus on the benefits of punctuality. You can also provide resources such as articles or weekly newsletters to further emphasize its importance.
A Recap
Dealing with late clients can be a challenge for real estate agents, but several strategies can be implemented to alleviate this issue. Empathy and understanding towards the client’s situation can go a long way in fostering a positive relationship while still setting clear expectations regarding punctuality.
Being flexible with scheduling, utilizing technology, and maintaining a calm and professional demeanor can also help in addressing this issue. Educating clients on the importance of punctuality and its impact on the real estate industry can further emphasize the significance of being on time.
By implementing these strategies, real estate agents can provide quality customer service while upholding their time management and productivity. Remember, communication is key to finding solutions that work for both parties.
Last modified: April 4, 2023
