A rigid personality helps surpass all odds and thrive through every obstacle presented throughout the journey of success. Therefore, personality plays a key roles for real estate leaders who always strive to win the trust of their clients and teammates.
With a highly personalized approach towards his customers, Roger Pettingell has earned vast recognition for his distinguished personality as a real estate leader. Today, Roger is known as a highly credentialed Coldwell Banker Realty agent and broker who specializes in luxury waterfront properties in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. He puts to use his decades of experience, vast community connections, and unmatched marketing expertise. Backed by a five-person professional staff, Roger ensures comprehensive, personalized attention from the list to the sale for buyers as well as sellers.
After graduating with a B.S. in Biology and Chemistry from Guilford College, Roger joined Arvida as a marketing manager and quickly shifted into real estate sales within two years. As an experienced Sarasota luxury real estate agent, Roger believes most of his success comes from offering top-notch customer service and using cutting-edge marketing tools. Throughout his career (which spans over 35 years), Roger has earned various accolades and prestigious recognitions. These include being named REAL Trends #1 Real Estate Agent for Longboat Key, Bird Key, and Sarasota. He has also been named as #1 Coldwell Banker Realty Agent in both Sarasota County as well as in the state of Florida for 11 years in a row.
During a recent conversation with Mirror Review, Roger elaborated on his career ideas and his leadership strategies. Following are some of the snippets of the insightful conversation.
What factors motivated you to pursue a career in the real estate sector?
Honestly, I did not intend to start my career in real estate. I always had the fascination to become a vet as I love animals. However, I realized I work well with people and I was drawn to the marketing industry. Real estate almost fell into my lap when Coldwell acquired my company. In 1985, I moved from marketing into real estate for Avida, and they later merged with Coldwell in 2002. By that point, there was no denying what I was going to be doing. I realized my skills were perfect for being an agent because I knew how to pinpoint the needs of my clients and showcase what I am selling.
When was Coldwell Banker established? What are the various services/solutions provided by the company?
Coldwell Banker was founded by young entrepreneurs Colbert Coldwell and Benjamin Banker in 1906. It is the oldest and most established residential real estate franchise system in North America. Since its establishment, Coldwell Banker has changed the way people bought and sold homes across America. It ultimately became one of the trusted real estate brands in the world and is continuously recognized for its innovation and leadership across 3,000 offices in 49 countries and territories.
What measures do you undertake to bring about a positive client experience? What strategies do you implement for offering a better client experience?
I believe that positive client experiences make up the central tenet for a healthy company. Being a top producer for Coldwell Banker, I am well-versed in understanding salesmanship and customer service. People are more than happy to tell you what they want, but sometimes that goes beyond surface-level words. Sometimes, customers aren’t entirely sure what they are looking for, and there is that element of ‘I’ll know it when I see it.’ Sometimes You have to read between the lines and understand them better than they understand themselves. That only happens if you are listening more than you are talking.
I suggest implementing the following factors for ensuring a better client experience:
- Listening to the needs of the clients
- Forming authentic connections
- Offering the latest technology and traditional options
- Focusing on the needs of the clients over sales
- Being descriptive about the offers
- Being available and quick to respond
As a leader, what strategies do you implement for optimum customer satisfaction?
I highly believe, “Action over talk.” Numerous salespeople are good at talking and can sell you anything. But, what makes me more productive is that I’m doing a lot for my clients. We ensure making every sale a boutique experience for the clients. We begin with a one-on-one meeting that helps us assess the goals and property in question. We also use cutting-edge marketing tools and technology Whatever we do, we ensure that it is done with the utmost care for the client.
How do you ensure being productive throughout your work?
It is easy to feel tired every now and then. However, I have learned to jump on board and throw myself into whatever I am doing. I believe it has served me well because I do not naturally have an aggressive personality. So, it is a good balance.
Being a decorated leader, what are some of the key learnings that you have garnered throughout your career?
Speaking of the key learning, I would like to suggest new agentsto always get to the heart of the customer’s needs before selling them anything. You should also ensure that your approach is thorough and efficient. Moreover, you should stay on top of the newest tech trends to offer the best to your clients.
Leadership Note:
Also read: The 10 Most Prominent Real Estate Leaders of November 2023
