Guest contributor Cloud CMA says:

Communication is the foundation for client interactions and crucial to the success of your real estate business. Your clients are bombarded daily with messages and media, so how can you stand out? Learn to communicate effectively. Here are three tips for practicing effective communication:

1. Think before you "speak"

This may seem obvious, but too many of us lose our "filter" when we're busy, overwhelmed, or stressed. Effective communicators pause, breathe, and focus the intention of their message before proceeding. Communications should be purposeful, to the point, and leave the recipient with an understanding of what's next.

2. Choose your medium wisely

There more options today than ever before when it comes to ways in which we communicate with one another. We text, email, Facebook, and Tweet, so how do you choose the right channel? The answer can be found when you consider which is right for your client. Catering to their preferred communication methods will streamline your efforts and support a positive experience.

3. Provide supporting information

Give your clients resources that enhance your communications. This builds rapport and provides them with something to reference long after your conversation has ended. Sharing MLS data is a viable option, but may not be the ideal support that your clients deserve. Incorporating a report-generating program into your agent repertoire is a simple way to execute this tip.

Cloud CMA is an example of a report generating software designed to enhance your client communications. Reports merge data from your MLS with top websites like education.com, Yelp!, Walk Score, and more. Information is organized, clearly presented, and guides your client through the next stages of the process. Reports can be printed, emailed, or linked to via social media. Providing clients with a data-packed report from Cloud CMA is a simple way to add value to your communications.