Hello Folks,
How’s tricks?
Last week, we looked at the G to I section of the Guide to Ethical Estate Agency. This week, it’s the turn of letters from J to L.
We look at how paying people on time, acquiring never-ending knowledge and leading the drive towards localism can set ethically minded agents apart from their rivals.
Let’s go.
J – Just pay on time
Paying your team and suppliers on time reflects your agency’s ethical stance and respect for others. It signifies good business practice and strengthens relationships, fostering a positive workplace and a reputable business image.
Why is it important?
Building trust: On-time payments build trust, showing you value the work and commitment of your team and suppliers.
Maintaining reputation: Having a good reputation is invaluable. Paying on time bolsters your image as a reliable, ethical agency that’s good to work for and with.
Avoiding financial disputes: Prompt payments prevent disputes and strained relationships, ensuring operational smoothness.
Fostering financial responsibility
1) Efficient accounting system
Use reliable software for tracking and managing payments with automated reminders.
2) Regular financial reviews
Conduct reviews to ensure cash flow supports on-time payments.
3) Clear payment terms
Establish and communicate consistent payment terms.
4) Communicate with your team
Highlight the importance of punctual time records and expense claims.
5) Feedback
Encourage feedback on payment processes to identify improvement areas.
Quick tip:
Hold a ‘Financial Health Day’ quarterly to review payment processes and maintain healthy cash flow.
Final thought
Making payments on time reflects a culture of integrity and respect within your agency. By prioritising timely payments, your agency maintains financial health and shows commitment to fair, ethical and responsible business practices.
K – Knowledge
Being well-informed about ethical issues and best practices is essential.
An informed agency sets the standard for ethical practices and grows a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
If you know, you know
Continuous learning: Encourage regular updates on industry trends, legal changes and ethical standards through training, seminars and industry publications. Stay ahead with adaptive, improved practices.
Open forums for discussion: Facilitate open discussions on ethical issues via meetings, workshops or lunch-and-learn sessions.
Sharing is caring
• Offer educational content in the form of guides, newsletters, or blog posts to help clients make informed decisions. Knowledgeable agencies earn greater client trust.
• Promote ethical practices through collaborations with industry bodies and educational institutions.
• Share insights at industry events and in professional publications. Your agency will be seen as a leader in ethical practices.
Quick tip:
Consider creating a Slack channel or WhatsApp group where team members can post articles, insights and updates, encouraging a learning culture and keeping everyone up to date.
Final thought
Cultivating a culture of knowledge in your business sets you up as a beacon of ethical practice and leadership in the estate agency field. By prioritising and sharing knowledge, your agency serves its clients and community more effectively and contributes to raising the bar for the entire industry.
L – Localism
Localism is a commitment to supporting the local economy and your community.
Your agency’s choice to buy and promote locally has significant social and environmental implications. This approach solidifies community ties and exemplifies sustainable and responsible business practices.
What’s the impact of localism?
Economic benefits: Encouraging local business growth fosters economic resilience in your community.
Environmental advantages: Reducing transportation for goods and services lowers carbon emissions.
Social cohesion: Strengthening local networks builds a sense of belonging and support.
Adopting a localism strategy
Local suppliers
Opt for local suppliers for your business essentials. A community-focused approach shows a genuine investment in the area’s wellbeing.
Community engagement
Get involved in local initiatives, enhancing your presence and contribution. Building local relationships can lead to new collaborations and business prospects.
Promote localism to clients
Advise clients on local amenities, fostering community integration and economic support. Clients respect agencies that actively support their local community.
Quick tip:
Create a ‘Local Business Directory’ for clients, showcasing nearby services and retailers, supporting local businesses and adding value to your services.
Final thought
Localism is about weaving a fabric of mutual support and growth between your agency and the community. This synergy benefits the local economy and fosters a deeper connection with clients, setting a precedent for a responsible, community-oriented business model.
And that’s all for now, folks.
Next week, I’ll follow up with our M to O sections from the new in-depth guide.
And don’t forget, if you’d like a copy of the existing A to Z Guide to Ethical Estate Agency, visit https://ethicalagentnetwork.co.uk/ – It’s towards the bottom of the page.
Thanks for reading, I appreciate your attention.
Jerry