I think I stepped on someone’s toes

The conversation among a couple of team members began with this concern, “I think I stepped on so n’ so’s toes.” My immediate response surprised even me. “That’s okay. You must have been dancing”. The conversation continued to cover the details describing the information that had been exchanged. A new member offered an idea that the more experienced member responded with a different solution.

Growing pains are part of the leadership and mentoring process. Knowing the character of the concerned experienced member allowed my intuitive self to see her interaction as a dance step. I assured her that her intent to be engaged in the learning process for someone new had the right tone. Tone is everything!

“Old timers” who carry a wealth of knowledge but wish to pass the torch use wisdom by avoiding the phrase, “We always did it this way” even in their tone and behavior. Listen to the new ideas. Assist in implementing the changes that might be more streamlined or relevant. Build that relationship that goes both ways. Meanwhile, my experience tells me that the newbie generally likes to be informed of systems that have worked in the past. They need the contacts and networks that the seasoned member has collected, to which the newbie can add and multiply the resources for the team effort.

Why am I adding this story to my real estate blog site?
#1. This is my only blog site.
#2. My background has enabled me to develop people skills. My former career as a hairstylist had me face to face with strangers with whom I needed to assess the goal of the appointment quickly (solve the problem), then develop trust and a long term relationship based on a 30 minute experience.
#3. I currently serve as the President of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 17 in Lewes, De. as well as 2nd Vice President of the Department of Delaware and Leadership Chair for the state. By putting these life tid-bits in one place I can direct those who want to learn to one location. Some will want to learn why they should choose me as their realtor. It’s all about building relationships.

“One of the tests of leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency.” Arnold Glasow

“When the student is ready, the teacher will appear. When the student is truly ready, the teacher will disappear.” Lao Tzu

“Character comes from following your highest sense of right, from trusting ideas without being sure they will work.” Richard Bach

“A problem well stated is a problem half solved.” Charles Kettering

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” John Quincy Adams