Hi Cindi,

While every call is important, if I am showing property or I am with a client, I don't answer my phone because it tells my clients that they are not important. Sometimes, if I am expecting a call that is also very important, I will ask my client at the beginning of my meetin with them if they will give me permission to answer the call that I am expecting. Most of my clients are very understanding and will always allow me to answer the phone. I try to do it while they are touring the home and I will make the call short. The fact that you are asking for permission is vital. I try not to do it often because all clients are important but as long as you explain to your clients that if you do not answer right away, it is because you are with a client but will return their call as soon as you are free.

Cindi,
I always try to answer my phone right away unless I am showing or listing a home. No one likes to leave a voice mail and wait who knows how long for a repsonse. If I am with someone else I will explain that and call them right back. In this business as you know your quick and personal attention to their call is a must.
Terry D. Rogers ,Broker Keller Williams, Lake Norman NC 704-560-9630

I answer every call as soon as I possibly can. However, when I'm out with clients that can be several hours - I do not answer or return calls when I'm with other clients. And I explain this to them...if the phone rings I let it go to voicemail because I want to give you my undivided attention and hope that you will understand when you're on the other end of the phone! Most clients are fine with this.

Hi Cindy,

It really depends on what I am doing at the time of the call. There are situations when I usually turn my phone off or on vibrate such as when I am at the closing table or in a listing appointment, etc… Also picking-up every phone call is very disruptive and can drastically eat up your efficiency. If I am working on a critical issue (deal breaker. etc…), I might make the decision not to pick up a call and let it go to voice mail.

Cathy Chaudemanche

Hi Cindy, I always return my phone calls within the hour. If I am out of the office or showing or checking properties I switch my phone message to where I mention that i will be out of the office and will be returning all my phone calls 11 to 12 and 4 to 5.

The average time frame for a call back is right away if it can be achieved. The first to respond gets the reward.

Hello Cindi,

I return phone calls within the hour (if there is something that would prevent me from responding I set the proper expectation in my recorded message). I also have found that between telephone, SMS, IM, and emails I exceed my clients expectations on communication.

Sincerely,


Lewis S. Bishop
Realtor, Windermere Rowland Realty

Direct: 925-368-7738 | Fax: 925-889-5550 | eMail: scottbishop@windermere.com | URL: http://www.LewisBishop.com

My phone calls are always answered within an hour. My emails are generally answered more quickly but I have had the rare occasion where it has taken me up to 6 hours to answer (but only when I am sleeping) :-)