Some Quick Tips for Good Verbal Communication

  • Your tone reflects your intentions. 

  • Be an Active Listener. Active listening means asking “clarifying questions, and rephrasing what the person says to ensure understanding (So, what you’re saying is…”).

  • Pay attention to nonverbal clues

  • Provide verbal feedback. This can be quick verbal feedback like “I see.” “Sure.” “I understand.” or it can be more in depth, depending on the situation. The point is to make sure you are letting the homeowner know you are following their communication with you.

  • Reframe what you heard the homeowner say in a question to make sure you understand what they mean. “So, you think… “ or “So, do you mean…”

  • Be as clear and straightforward as possible. 

  • Take a moment to think about what you want to say before you say it.

  • Pay attention. This is not the time to be thinking about the sale you hope to make from the meeting, or about what you are going to have for dinner, or a recent joke or story you heard. Be in the moment with the homeowner. 

  • Address all of the concerns the homeowner has. This shows you are actively listening to the homeowner, respect the homeowner’s thoughts and opinions and creates rapport.

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