Surveys have often shown that Real Estate Agents are one of the top five professions that are least trusted in society, along with bankers, journalists and politicians. Real estate agents therefore are always struggling to improve their self-image and increase the quality of their public relations.

It is extremely important for real estate to project an honest and clean image, especially online. This is because nowadays, a majority of clients search for property virtually and are led to agents on various websites. A good reputation will definitely boost the number of clients as well as drive more traffic and views your way.

Here, we offer some suggestions on how agents can improve the way they are perceived, especially when dealing with one’s online image.

1) Get a professional certificate

The Board of Valuers, Appraisers and Estate Agents Malaysia is the professional body that regulates and keeps track of property associated careers in Malaysia. They are also responsible to institute disciplinary measures to curb real estate fraud. They conduct regular examinations for property agents, valuers and negotiators and award professional certificates.

Visit their website for a full list of Institutions that offer courses for Real Estate Agent certification. Once you sit for the Board’s exam and pass, you’ll get a professional certificate.

2) Register with a Real Estate Agent Governing Body

In order to decrease client or customer suspicion, one of the best ways is to register yourself with an officially and legally recognized union of real estate agents. If you have a professional certificate, registering with the Board of Valuers, Appraisers and Estate Agents, Malaysia which will gain you more recognition.

Another good place to register is the Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA) which is a professional body in Malaysia that opens its membership to any agent with a certificate of practice.

3) Attend Self Improvement Seminars or Courses

Having a professional certificate isn’t enough as the market is always changing. Therefore it’s always good to look out for seminars on how to improve your marketing skills or to keep up with the latest real estate policies and developments. Seminars are also really great for networking.

4) Answer All Criticisms Politely and Gently

In the course of your career, there will definitely be clients who are difficult and demanding. In whatever case, never get into an argument or shouting match, especially online. Try and settle it calmly with a smile and brush it off later. If possible, reply with a respectful professional statement and don’t prolong disagreements.

Never take negative comments personally and learn to find healthy ways to deal with the stress and frustration.

5) Be Honest

This may sound very easy to do. However, being an ethical agent is harder than it looks. You might find temptations to cheat at certain corners.

In any case, if you are friendly, ethical and professional, word will definitely spread and that is the best marketing strategy out there.

6) Feedback from Previous Clients

It is good to have a professional website or blog where you can get some of your satisfied clients to provide positive feedback. In this way, future clients can gauge your performance and be impressed.

Hopefully these simple steps can improve your perceived image. However, keep in mind that self-confidence is one of the best strategies an agent can posess!