Don’t Let Your Business Go On Vacation, Too

Summer is here and in full swing. Schools are letting out for summer and many families are heading out on their summer vacations. I strongly encourage everyone to take a vacation from time to time, but it’s vital that while you go on vacation you don’t let your business take a vacation, too.

I’m sure at some point or another you’ve been working with another agent on a deal or needed to show one of their listings. You try and try for days calling every number and sending emails with no response from the agent. You reckon that maybe something terrible happened to that agent or they may have vanished into thin air. Finally, days later, you get a call with them apologizing how they were away and yada yada yada.

Don’t be this agent. It annoys the heck out of me and it annoys your fellow associates and clients as well.

So while you’re on vacation this summer, here are some ways to make sure everything is covered:

1. Choose someone to cover for you: Choose a reputable and RELIABLE person to cover for you while you are gone. If you have a huge workload, consider employing the help of more than just one person. Recently an associate of mine took a two week tour of Europe. Three of us covered for him, each of us individually responsible for different aspects of his job. When he returned, everything was running as smoothly exactly as he had left it.

2. Agree IN WRITING what compensation will be paid for those covering for you. Some agents are content with a flat referral percentage, others are fine with an hourly rate. If you’re unsure of what to offer, discuss your vacation plans with your office manager and question for suggestions.

3. Change your voicemails: Make sure ALL of your voicemails are changed stating you will be unavailable to take their call until x day that you’ll be returning and to please call the agent who is covering for you for immediate help. Don’t say you’re on vacation or lounging at the beach. Keep the message as professional as possible. Don’t forget to change the message on your cell phone as well.

4. Set up your email: With most email applications you can easily set up automatic answers. Your automatic answer can be similiar to your voicemail: I will be out of town until xxx date, please contact Agent Name for immediate help.

5. Say your clients: It is vital that your clients know when you are out of town. They don’t need the details of why or where you are going, just the reassurance of knowing Agent Name will be there for everything they need until you get back. Make sure you give them enough notice so if they need anything you can try to take care of it before you leave.

Now that you’re business is covered, you can go and delight in your vacation