Even the most profitable and high-earning real estate agents have and will continue to face plenty of ‘no’s during their career. But don’t let a rejection evolve into a sidelining event. Here are a few tips on how you can handle rejection gracefully and use these opportunities to become a better real estate agent.

Acknowledge your emotions

It’s hard for anyone, especially those working in sales, to hear a ‘no’. It’s okay to feel disappointed or upset and to acknowledge that this is a normal reaction to rejection. But it’s important not to take it personally or let you spiral into a rabbit hole of thinking one rejection will perpetuate into a hundred. Accept the rejection and gracefully move on to your next pursuit.

Reframe the situation

Finding it difficult to move on? Instead of dwelling, take the opportunity to reframe the situation and develop a more neutral narrative. For example, when a past client decides to work with another real estate agent for their next purchase, instead of thinking “I’m not good enough”, you could consider the other reasons why they might have gone with another agent. For example, they may be specializing in a niche property or neighbourhood which the client is interested in. Instead of thinking “I’ll never land another client”, you can remind yourself of all the previous happy clients you have worked with.

Be mindful of your body language

Whether small rejections, like a client expressing their displeasure during a property viewing, or more significant ‘no’, your body language can play a part in how the situation unravels. Crossing your arms, furrowing your brow and tensing your muscles can augment a negative reaction. Instead, stay calm, with your arms by your side and a relaxed facial expression. This will put both yourself and the other party at ease so that emotions won’t get in the way of decisions.