When I am conducting sales training at lenders, it is clear that originators are asked to perform an inordinate number of duties that are not selling activities. The typical lender expects originators to generate their own business; put a file together; follow up with customers; and retain the customers once the loan has closed. If […]
In today’s ultra-competitive marketplace, being a good salesperson isn’t enough to generate new business. These originators meet expectations but don’t go above and beyond to deliver an exceptional customer experience. They tend to perform well during refinance markets but lose momentum in purchase money markets because they don’t stand out amid their competitors. Good […]
In just 39 days, 2020 will be here. For many in mortgage banking, 2019 was great; for others, not so much. In the year ahead, sales organizations will need to address the challenges inherent in a marketplace characterized by the resurgence of purchase money and the reduction of refinance volume. It seems like some originators […]
During my recent MBA webinar on increasing sales production, many participants raised questions about how to make loan officers more accountable. This has always been a hot topic for lenders and their managers but the issue is especially critical as we approach 2020 and the formidable challenges that lie ahead. Knowing what drives accountability and […]
Recently, the catchphrase “OK Boomer” has been trending in the media and on the Internet. The saying gained popularity when CNN showed a video of Chlöe Swarbrick speaking about the Zero Carbon Bill in New Zealand. When she was heckled by an older official, she casually dropped a sharp-tongued retort — “OK Boomer” — […]
At the MBA conference last week, I spoke with many senior executives at a variety of different-sized lenders about the state of mortgage banking and their concerns for the immediate future. Out of those conversations, two primary topics emerged: Many senior managers acknowledge that the refinance boom-let has made them profitable, but they also recognize […]
Every originator hears the word “no” a lot. Whether it is from referral sources or prospects, salespeople deal with rejection on a regular basis. There’s no question that selling is not for the faint of heart. Maintaining enthusiasm and momentum amid a daily barrage of negativity can be challenging at times for even the best […]
Everyone loves a good story. For adults and children alike, the best stories make a lasting impression. Who doesn’t remember the story of George Washington chopping down the cherry tree and the value of telling the truth. While originators aren’t tasked to share life lessons, they are challenged to connect with prospects in a meaningful […]
Everyone in mortgage origination knows that selling has changed dramatically from just a few years ago. Not that long ago, salespeople held all the information and customers had to contact them to get access to it. Now, buyers can conduct research online 24/7 to answer their home financing questions before reaching out to a […]
The best sales professionals realize sharing valuable content with their connections is a great way to stay top of mind among their target audience and to generate leads. Originators have a number of different options when it comes to delivering content to prospects and referral sources. One of the most effective tactics is to […]