My grandmother was very wise, and so too were the aphorisms that she would often share with me. Somehow they always sounded more elegant in Italian. Yet in any language they always seemed to ring true, if not at the time that she spoke them, then later on in life. One that I remember well she often uttered when I was a teenager, “Tell me who your friends are and I’ll tell you who you are.”
Introspectively
Analytical even at a young age, rather than taking her comments personally or defensively, I simply observed behaviors of those at school who “hung around” together. It didn’t take long for me to realize that she was right. Friends are usually friends because they have a lot in common. The adage that “opposites attract” may at times be true in spousal relationships, but much less so in friendships of the same gender.
Perception
To take it a step further, others also judge you by the character of those with whom you attach yourself. It is no different on a professional level. In real estate, where Realtors are not employees but independent contractors, it is particularly true. Real estate brands are embedded in the community along with their reputations. And as independent contractors, Realtors are at liberty to choose with whom they wish to affiliate.
Professionally Speaking
From a professional standpoint it is a huge decision that can have a profound affect on one’s career. For those of us who have been in the business for years, we understand that there are many factors to consider when making such a decision. None is more important than reputation and character. Playing hard is fine, but playing by the rules is imperative. As my grandmother warned, you must always be mindful that you will be judged by the company you keep.
Did you consider reputation when making your decision of with whom to work?
Had your company’s reputation lived up to your expectation?
If not, do you think that it has affected your business in anyway?
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