Greg Perry has one of my favorite local real estate blogs that I think every agent could learn from. In fact, I know I've used Eastside Real Estate Working for You as an example of a successful blog before.
He also is a contributor to the Seattle PI Blog: Seattle Real Estate Professionals.
I also have a ton of respect for Greg and what he's accomplished in the local RE blogosphere not only on his blog but also how he conducts himself while visiting (commenting) on other RE blogs.
I recently asked Greg if he would share some thoughts on how to successfully have a dialog via comments on blogs. Here's some of his "random thoughts" (Greg's words) that are even useful beyond blogging:
Stay civil at all times and keep the high road.
Follow the “Golden Rule”.
Disagreement with the message is fine. Don’t attack the author.
Reduce language that inflames. Use “however” rather than “but”, etc.
Reduce the use of language that speaks in “absolutes”. ie. always, never, all agents, etc.
Avoid the appearance of taking sides and labeling others. “cheerleaders”, bubbleheads, etc. This rallies the troops on both sides of the argument!
When engaged in a debate, acknowledge the viewpoint of the other even if you radically disagree. For instance, “I understand” are 2 golden words. I understand does not mean you agree. It means you understand (or at least are attempting to understand) their viewpoint. You’ll find these words will get the other person to listen to your points!
Don’t comment while drinking
Don’t comment if you’re in a rotten mood.
Do your best not to take comments about your industry personally.
Use less sarcasm and more sincerity.
If someone attacks you personally, try to disarm it with a little humor. Or, completely ignore the insult and try to genuinely engage the other person.
Sometimes the best comment is one that isn’t made (in anger, a put down or excessive pride/ego, etc.).
Allow the other to “save face”. We all hold our own “truths” based on our experiences and perceptions.
Introduce real numbers or facts into “circle” arguments. Facts tend to disarm emotional arguments. Try to move generalities to specifics.
Be inclusionary, not exclusionary.
Be patient with new commenters on the scene.
Don’t allow anyone to “bully” you (and sometimes others). Just like on a playground, the bully must be confronted (and……sometimes even the bully needs to save face!).
If someone has incorrect allegations, facts, nicely ask them to back up their assertions.
Sometimes “mean spiritedness” needs to be artfully exposed. The other may not realize how it looks, or may be in a funk.
Expect the best from others.
Stumble It!
