Enhancing Civility: Extracting Lessons from Sportsmanship for the Workplace

In recent times, there has been a distressing decline in sportsmanship and decorum within the realm of sports. Incidents like a fan throwing a water bottle at an NBA player, a heated exchange between soccer players leading to an unsightly confrontation, or a middle school wrestler being sucker-punched by an opponent after a match are indicative of a broader erosion of civility in society. As professionals, it is vital for us to address this issue and uphold the highest standards of conduct in the real estate industry.

Managing Editor

Dave Anderton

Publisher Mills Publishing, Inc. www.millspub.com

President

Dan Miller

Art Director

Jackie Medina

Graphic Design

Ken Magleby

Patrick Witmer

Office Administrator

Cynthia Bell Snow

Like any other profession, real estate thrives on trust, cooperation, and mutual respect. As agents, we serve as intermediaries between buyers and sellers, working towards bringing people together and assisting them in achieving their dreams of homeownership. It is incumbent upon us to navigate these relationships with grace and professionalism. The lessons derived from the world of sports serve as a reminder that we must collaborate to cultivate an environment of respect and courtesy.

When we witness poor sportsmanship in athletics, it serves as a striking reminder of the significance of civility in our daily interactions. The principles of good sportsmanship, encompassing fair play, respect for opponents, and graciousness in victory or defeat, should also guide our actions as real estate professionals. Just as athletes are expected to shake hands after a match, we must treat our colleagues and clients with an equivalent level of respect and dignity.

Sales Staff

Paula Bell

Paul Nicholas

Salt Lake Board: (801) 542-8840 e-mail: dave@saltlakeboard.com

Web Site: www.slrealtors.com to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin.

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The absence of civility in sports often leads to penalties, suspensions, and reputational damage. In the real estate world, the cost of incivility can be even more severe. Unprofessional behavior can result in a tarnished reputation, strained relationships, fines, lawsuits, and missed business opportunities. As Realtors®, we pledge to hold ourselves to a higher standard, the Code of Ethics, and actively promote and embody the values of respect, integrity, fiduciary duty, and courtesy.

Fortunately, amidst the negativity, the sports world also presents shining examples of athletes who epitomize sportsmanship and humility. These role models inspire us to strive for improvement and demonstrate that courtesy and professionalism are not outdated notions.

As real estate professionals, we possess the power to make a positive difference by committing to upholding the values of civility and professionalism in our interactions. It begins with treating every client, colleague, and competitor with the respect and kindness they deserve. By doing so, we create a positive environment that not only benefits our profession but also contributes to a more civil society.

Rob Ockey President