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Weichert Leadership Academy 2021 –– so many reasons to celebrate

— Weichert Franchise

Now in its 20th year, Weichert Leadership Academy (formerly Management Academy) gives attendees the opportunity to meet new owners, learn key pillars of the Weichert brokerage system, and, most importantly, be immersed in the philosophy that sets Weichert apart from other real estate franchising companies.

“This conference is all about the why,” says senior VP Mark Hanna, who heads up the event three times each year. “When you understand the difference between managing and leading a team, a whole new perspective takes shape.”

Although Weichert continued to sign new franchisees during the pandemic, in-person events have been on hold since November of 2019. As such, the number of new attendees plus returning affiliates amounted to one of our largest academies to date. If not for occupancy limitations, numbers would have been even higher.

Held in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina, this year’s event welcomed guests from more than 20 states. Designed mainly for new owners, many existing franchisees return for a refresher on the information we share –– plus a dose of fresh inspiration.

“Social interaction is priceless,” says Mark. “We made due with virtual events last year, but there’s really no substitute for new owners to interact with colleagues, mentors, and top producers. It’s such an inspiring time.”

A highlight for many was hearing from some of Weichert’s top 30 companies, known as the Premier Client Group (PCG). These owners helped put new affiliates at ease by sharing challenges they’ve overcome as well as proven strategies for retaining talent and driving revenue. This year, eight PCG owners returned, some with their managers, to share insights and wisdom.

That so many busy owners make time to join us again and again is a testament to the supportive culture that makes Weichert an industry leader.

Academy programming dives deep into the five pillars that are the foundation of Weichert franchising, including:

  • Recruiting – a thorough exploration of our philosophy, strategies, tools, and training designed to support a strong recruitment pipeline
  • Listing Mastery – a comprehensive overview of Weichert’s proprietary DOORS™ listing strategy, which allows even new agents to begin winning business
  • Open Houses – the secrets of not only selling more properties, but using them to advertise and prospect for new business
  • Buyer Mastery – our unique way of serving buyers that better assesses their needs, explores their whys, and demonstrates exactly how we’ll serve them
  • Financial Literacy – “Knowing your numbers” is what made Jim Weichert so successful. To this day, he runs the numbers regularly, knows which metrics to watch, and uses this data to inform decisions. We teach this critical skill to all owners so they can maximize profits.

“The Weichert Way is more than just a slogan,” says Weichert president Bill Scavone. “It’s based on pillars that every owner must master in today’s extremely competitive market. Those who fully embrace each one set themselves up to attract better agents, win more business, and close more deals.”

New owners also met with their regional directors and service managers who serve as strategic partners in business planning, sales coaching, marketing, recruiting, and financial management. Broker councils, which include owners from the same geographical areas, also met to discuss issues particular to their regions.

Along with four information-packed days, some of the best networking connections happened during breaks and after-hours get togethers. These impromptu meetings are often the catalyst for life-long business connections and friendships.

And why is the conference now called a “leadership” academy?

“It really comes down to adopting a different mindset,” says Mark. “You manage your systems, but you lead your people. Not everyone is born with great leadership skills, but they can be learned. We’re here to teach owners everything we know and support them as they grow their businesses.”

As Jim Weichert always says: You have to buy in from your nose to your toes. Weichert Leadership Academy was designed to be an immersive experience that makes the journey easier, more productive, and a whole lot of fun.

Thinking of joining the Weichert family? Go here to get started or get in touch anytime. We’d love to see you at future real estate industry events, including our next Leadership Academy this fall in our home state of New Jersey!

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