NATIONWIDE MORTGAGE 8-9-21

NATIONWIDE MORTGAGE EDITION

Take My Word For It:

The Power of Testimonials & Making Word-of-Mouth Count

TOP MORTGAGE LENDER

JOE WANTA

COVER STORY

MEINOH KIM

How to Make Your Commute Productive Turning Your Profession into a PASSION WHY EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION MATTERS

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NATIONWIDE MORTGAGE EDITION

JOE WANTA 9

MEINOH KIM

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JOE WANTA

Joe Wanta started in the mortgage industry this the bank. Owned and past July, and already he has achieved great Federal Savings Ban success, becoming one of the top producers at veteran population.

The Federal Savings Bank in Chicago, Illinois. serve others, Joe clo Before he began his journey in the mortgage region in 2020, and h industry, Joe worked in fitness, where he was this year. “I’m taking number one in sales for six consecutive years HOW TO MAKE in the18) region as a Personal Training YOUR Member Onboarding Manager. Always dedicated to COMMUTE PRODUCTIVE helping his clients succeed and to providing toptier service, Joe applies his customer-oriented approach to help each of his clients navigate the 22) TAKE MY WORD FOR IT: home loan process. “When I made the career THE TESTIMONIALS switch, I wasPOWER motivated toOF produce at the same level & thatMAKING I had achieved WORD-OF-MOUTH in the fitness business,” Joe says. “My priority was to continue to help COUNT people.

That’s why I do what I do.”

CONTENTS 4) WHY EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION MATTERS & CAN BOOST YOUR BOTTOM LINE

MEINOH KIM 6) HOW TO GET THE BIGGEST RECHARGE OUT OF YOUR LUNCH HOUR

15) TURNING YOUR PROFESSION INTO A PASSION

With his work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to his clients, Joe has built a thriving business and a stellar reputation. Joe began as a Junior Mortgage Banker, and was quickly promoted, now serving as a Vice President at

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Why Employee Appreciation Matters & Can Boost Your Bottom Line Attracting and retaining talent creates a positive working environment for your business, but it’s also good for your bottom line. When team members come and go constantly, your office becomes a revolving door, with no steady workforce, abiding company culture, or continuity for your clients. What’s more, breaking from your duties to post ads, interview applicants, and train new hires takes up valuable time—and time is money. Instead, creating a working environment with built-in 4

perks and morale boosters makes everyone happy, including you as a leader. You’ll have fewer fires to put out or squabbles to referee if your employees are motivated, feel appreciated, and inclined to work together for the business’s greater good.

In that vein, let’s consider the concrete benefits of employee appreciation and how to apply these principles to your business in meaningful ways.

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What is employee appreciation and how do you enact it?

Whether built-in through perks and benefits or by hosting regular events, employee appreciation is about making your team feel valued and part of a whole. No one wants to feel replaceable or voiceless, so it comes down to this basic truth: employees who feel heard and appreciated invest more in their work and your business. Likewise, no one wants to hop jobs every six months.

Employees desire reliability and consistency in their work options, but they’ll be forced to move on to greener pastures if they don’t feel like their talents and contributions are recognized, or if there isn’t enough value to match their output.

By displaying gratitude through employee appreciation, you’re sending the message that your employees’ efforts are respected and considered integral to your operation’s success. Employee appreciation also sets the right tone for professional relationships in your office to flourish, which makes for better workflow and communication on an interpersonal level. Motivation and morale are closely tied to employee appreciation, so there is a clear symbiotic benefit to investing in your employees’ happiness in order to breed a happier, more productive work environment.

How do you make employee appreciation an active part of your business model? To start, keep it simple. Treat your employees to a bagel spread on a Monday morning to boost morale ahead of the workweek. Or, consider Top Agent Magazine

an employee happy hour on a Friday, or a group lunch mid-week. Well-timed moments of generosity can lift spirits and signal your intuitiveness as a leader, while creating fuel for upcoming projects and deadlines.

If you want to take it to the next level, consider in-office perks from which your employees can derive value or morale. For instance, some offices allow employees to bring in their docile pets. Other offices keep the communal kitchen stocked with sparkling water, fresh fruit, and quality coffee to keep team members satiated. Maybe your office would benefit from a modern décor update, which might make for a more compelling, progressive workspace for your employees to enjoy. Whatever route you take, cultivating a positive office environment can extend employee appreciation on a daily, hands-on basis.

Perks and benefits are another way to build-in employee appreciation and demonstrate your investment in your team. Bike-to-work benefits, subsidies for public transportation or gym membership costs, or even supplying your team with their own smartphone—all demonstrate a company culture that’s focused on fueling your team’s morale and productivity.

While some of these steps may seem like a costly investment, the returns are unequivocal when it comes to lasting employee retention.

Turnover is a blight on your bottom line, so taking a proactive approach to employee appreciation can inspire a dynamic team, lead to a more positive work environment, and boost your financials for the long term.

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How to Get the Biggest Recharge

Out of Your Lunch Hour When things get busy, it’s typical to find a grab-and-go lunch and keep plugging away on the tasks at hand. While some days demand this kind of hustle, your lunch hour can be a valuable window in which to recharge and set the tone for the latter half of your day. In fact, taking a mindful break at midday can create 6

mental space for extended productivity and provide the morale boost necessary to take on a new task for the afternoon.

But how do you maximize that hourlong reprieve amidst a busy schedule?

Here are a few ideas for inspiration, no matter what your tastes or preferred habits may be.

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Taking a mindful break at midday can create mental space for extended productivity and provide the morale boost necessary to take on a new task for the afternoon.

GET MOVING Just ten minutes of light exercise can get your blood pumping and your energy renewed.

Step outside and take a brisk walk around the block, or walk to your favorite sandwich shop instead of hopping in your car. Find ways to incorporate light exercise into your lunch hour routine and you’ll not only enjoy a chance to stretch your legs and get your eyes off of screens, but you’ll also reap the health and mood benefits of endorphins. Even extended stretching or mild calisthenics can provide rejuvenating relief in short order.

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PLAY CATCH UP Sometimes catching up with an old friend or family member can brighten your day and give you a morale-boosting outlet beyond the office. During your next lunch hour, why not combine a jaunt around the block with a call to catch up with your sibling or college buddy? Shifting your focus from work and centering instead on a comforting interpersonal relationship can really boost your mood and reinforce your personal values.

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CHANGE YOUR TUNE

SOAK UP THE SUN If you’re tempted to eat your lunch at your desk while staring into the same computer screen that you’ve been working on for hours—think again. Sure, a busy schedule sometimes means making that sacrifice, but when your schedule and weather permits, try to take your lunch outside and disconnect from your office setting. Soak up the sun, feel the breeze, and lift your gaze to the horizon instead of toward your phone or computer screen. The mood-boosting benefits of time spent recharging outside are well-documented, and a change of scenery can give you the boost you need to power through your afternoon to-do list.

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Use your lunch hour to treat your senses. As you eat or get active, try queuing up your favorite music or the latest episode of your favorite podcast. If you focus on the same tasks and stimuli for too long, your brain will fatigue and your focus will erode steadily over time. Shift gears and treat your mind to some music or stimulation outside of your daily tasks. You’ll help yourself relax, recharge, and create a natural transition point for your ensuing afternoon workflow.

Your lunch hour isn’t just about being purely functional. If you want to maintain a steady rate of productivity and leave the office satisfied by the progress of your day—use your lunch hour wisely. As important as it is to nourish your body, also consider nourishing your mind. No matter what your chosen outlet may be, don’t overlook the power of a well-spent lunch hour and the positive benefits that are sure to follow.

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MEINOH KIM

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MEINOH KIM Meinoh Kim—loan officer for Loan Depot in Concord, California— specializes in conventional, conforming, and FHA loans.

Meinoh Kim began working in the mortgage industry in 2005 but took a break in 2008 during the housing market crash to pursue independent endeavors. “I always wanted to be an entrepreneur, so I took all of my savings and invested in frozen yogurt. That was the time Pink Berry was starting,” he recalls.

“I opened the first frozen yogurt establishment 10Copyright Top Agent Magazine

called Yocup in San Francisco.” After selling that company, Meinoh started a baby products business, Meeno Babies, which was highly successful in eight countries in addition to the U.S. “The business ran for nine years, and I gave it to my family,” he says. “I came to the realization that the entrepreneur world wasn’t for me.” Meinoh ultimately went back into the Top Agent Magazine

mortgage industry and hasn’t looked back. He now works as a loan officer for Loan Depot in Concord, California.

Meinoh, who works solo with his assistant Jillie Reynolds, specializes in conventional, conforming, and FHA loans. He reports that his business is 20% referral clientele. “The majority of my work is new construction and purchase,” he states. “I’m not big on refis.” Meinoh has established a reputation for dependability, accuracy, and is a trusted resource for both his clients and his team. “I work seven days a week and haven’t had a Top Agent Magazine

free weekend in a long time,” he says. “I’m always available and treat every client the same, whether I’m dealing with a $1 million loan or a $70,000 loan, everyone is treated with the same level of service.”

It’s no surprise that he receives stellar reviews for his esteemed work ethic. One client recently wrote: “I had the privilege of working with a true professional, Meinoh Kim, as our mortgage originator when we purchased our new home. His work ethic, dedication, knowledge, and honesty in handling our transaction were second to none. He gives you the facts and Copyright Top Agent Magazine11

“I don’t consider my job to be about making money,” Meinoh says. “it’s about helping people achieve their financial goals, and to me, that’s a sense of accomplishment.”

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allows you to make the best decisions for your purchase. He’s a true advocate for his clients, impeccable reputation, and a friend for life.”

Meinoh is a people person and has tremendous experience working with everyone, from first time home buyers to seasoned investors. He maintains a relevant real estate acumen that allows him to continually deliver top quality service in this ever-changing lending landscape. He works tirelessly to ensure that every transaction he enters proceeds efficiently and closes in a timely manner. “I don’t consider my job to be about making money,” he says. “it’s about helping people achieve their financial goals, and to me, that’s a sense of accomplishment.”

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Meinoh says that he maintains contact with his clients on a daily basis. “I’m always on the phone, so I’m basically in touch with clients all the time,” he asserts. “My job is like that of a mayor. I’m constantly out meeting new people and checking in on them.” He’s also what he calls “calendar heavy,’ which is the only way he can stay on top of his priorities.

Fortunately for Meinoh, he doesn’t have to market his business. “My work is my marketing tool,” he explains. “When I maintain contact, offer follow-through, and close on time, my reputation shines. I’m very lucky.”

When he can, Meinoh donates to his kids’ schools as well as to the local churches.

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When not working, Meinoh can be found spending quality time with his wife and two children.

He is an avid runner who covers approximately 125 miles a month. “In order to make that happen, I have to get up at 4 every morning,” He

also loves fishing, barbecuing, and traveling with his family. Meinoh says by next year, he will be a $100-million-dollar producer. “I hope to continue to serve my community, helping clients reach their financial goals,” he says.

To learn more about Meinoh Kim, please call (925) 586-0000, email meinohkim@loandepot.com, or visit loandepot.com/meinohkim http://www.justingrable.com www.

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Turning Your Profession into a Passion The old adage goes that if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.

On the other hand, it’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day worries and responsibilities of your career, even if you generally enjoy what you do. While there’s no guaranteeing that every day on the job will be a picnic, there are a few steps you can take to vastly improve your morale and transform your profession into a passion.

After all, cultivating a passion for what you do will not only add to your quality Top Agent Magazine

of life, but will likely make you more successful in the long run.

BUILD YOUR BASE OF KNOWLEDGE Knowledge builds confidence, and confidence breeds success. A sure way to light a fire in your heart for your daily work is to challenge yourself to learn more and expand your understanding of your field. By doing so, you equip yourself for success, create challenges, and find the most inter-

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esting features of your work—especially those that most appeal to your interests and talents. Try reading the top five books on the topic of your industry, or subscribe to a podcast where thriving professionals offer their two cents. Either way, learning more about your industry is bound to reveal a source of inspiration worth pursuing.

THINK ABOUT THE BIG PICTURE

TAKE RISKS

CONNECT WITH LIKE-MINDED PROFESSIONALS

One of the biggest hindrances of professional passion is falling into a rut. Routines are familiar and everyday responsibilities vie for our energy. But the next time you tackle a task the way that you always have, take a moment and try to refresh your perspective—is there a more clever or efficient way you could approach this project?

Even better: why not take the plunge and do the things you’ve always been meaning to—throw that client appreciation event you’ve put off planning, take the continuing education course you keep forgetting to register for, even try a creative activity that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

There’s no better way to inject some passion into your life than by going outside your bubble and taking a risk.

Have you ever chatted with someone who was overflowing with energy for what they do? That sort of passion tends to be infectious—often causing us to beg our own questions about professional engagement.

By participating in local organizations or networking with those who are active

Passion comes from all directions—from your own interior journey and from the world around you. To transform your profession into a passion worth having, invest in yourself and venture into the vast world around you. You’ll surely reap the rewards.

Sometimes reinvigorating your passion for your work is about looking outward, rather than inward. Gain some perspective and consider who your work helps in the long run. As a real estate professional—whether you work as an agent, broker, in mortgages, home inspections, or otherwise—your work positively impacts someone else’s home-sweet-home. You make a difference. While it may seem like just another day at the office, taking a moment to visualize exactly who you are helping in the world at large is a great way to add some motivational fire to your daily tasks.

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and excelling in your field, you may find that others’ approaches inspire your own.

Likewise, what you learn from other successful, passionate people in your field can help you shape your own office and work life, in turn creating more opportunities for you to fall in love with what you do, all over again.

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How to Make Your Commute Productive The highest caliber business owners and entrepreneurs utilize every minute of their day.

Though this may be a lofty goal, there are certainly ways to make our daily routines more efficient and productive. Consider the morning and evening commute—time blocks that are accounted for every day. For some of us, daily commutes may mean a lengthy drive through gridlock traffic, or perhaps just a quick fifteen-minute crosstown excursion. However short or long your commute may be, there are ways to maximize this component of your daily routine and reap the rewards.

With that in mind, take a look at some ideas below to inject some energy and productivity into your daily commute.

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Listen to the latest industry-centric podcasts or audiobooks Whether you drive, bike, walk, or take public transportation, a commute is the perfect time to tune into an industry-oriented podcast or audiobook as a way of building your skills or getting into the zone for the day. Instead of letting your commute time be passive, you can process insights from leading industry professionals, or develop your skillset on a topic you haven’t yet made time for. Perhaps you’d like to develop your social media presence, or maybe you’d like to tap into the millennial homebuyer market—whatever the case may be, there is audio material out there suited to your interests. What’s more, podcasts are free and easy to incorporate on your smartphone or

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tablet, and there are ample audiobook subscription services out there that make regular listenership cost effective.

Create a mental to-do list to get a head-start on your day, or to prepare for tomorrow Getting your thoughts in order with a straightforward to-do list can help you dive in once you make it to your desk, or serve as a conclusive mental routine to end your work day.

If you drive to and from work and don’t have your hands free, don’t fret. Speaking your to-do list aloud can help you detangle your thoughts and tasks by vocalizing them. You can also try breaking down your to-do list by verbalizing the day’s goals, the week’s goals, and the month’s goals as a way of structuring priorities. If your commute is hands-free, you can incorporate a variety of apps that serve as custom-made todo lists that’ll organizationally map your duties for the day. In either case, use your commute window to identify and name the tasks ahead of you, and you’ll be able to hit the ground running when the time comes to perform.

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Tend to your personal commitments and planning A productive commute can boost your professional performance, but it can also serve your personal growth and out-of-the-office responsibilities, as well. Perhaps you can think out and plan your meals for the week so that you don’t come home burnt out and with nothing in mind for dinner. Maybe you check in with a relative or partner and catch up for a spare twenty minutes.

Not only does this eliminate a few items off of your personal to-do list, it can actually give you a more focused mind at the office. If your personal life is in good order, you’ll be able to devote your full attention to work tasks.

As the old saying goes, there are only so many hours in a day. If you added up all the minutes spent commuting around town, how many hours would amount? Though the trek to and from the office is an engrained part of professional life, it doesn’t have to be a drag. Account for those spare commute windows in productive ways, and in only a month you’ll have devoted a significant portion of your time to bettering yourself as a person and a professional.

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JOE WANTA

Joe Wanta started in the mortgage industry this past July, and already he has achieved great success, becoming one of the top producers at The Federal Savings Bank in Chicago, Illinois.

Before he began his journey in the mortgage industry, Joe worked in fitness, where he was number one in sales for six consecutive years in the region as a Personal Training Member Onboarding Manager. Always dedicated to helping his clients succeed and to providing toptier service, Joe applies his customer-oriented approach to help each of his clients navigate the home loan process. “When I made the career switch, I was motivated to produce at the same level that I had achieved in the fitness business,” Joe says. “My priority was to continue to help people. That’s why I do what I do.”

the bank. Owned and operated by veterans, The Federal Savings Bank works primarily with the veteran population. Motivated by his desire to serve others, Joe closed in the top 10% in the region in 2020, and he is on track to do the same this year. “I’m taking it step by step, but I’m also

With his work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to his clients, Joe has built a thriving business and a stellar reputation. Joe began as a Junior Mortgage Banker, and was quickly promoted, now serving as a Vice President at 20

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motivated to be one of the top producers since that means I get to help more people,” Joe says.

“All of us here at Federal Savings strive for the highest customer service.”

Joe has already earned a solid repeat client and referral rate, a testament to the way he treats his clients. “I love working with veterans,” Joe says. “It’s very rewarding to help them and to give back.” Committed to his own professional growth, Joe is also invested in empowering his clients through education and transparent communication. “Just as I had to become educated on the loan process, I love to help my clients learn about it so they can make informed decisions. I’m not trying to sell them what’s in my rhetoric; I want to build their financial literacy and understanding.” To keep in touch with his past clients, Joe makes personal phone calls to check in. “I’m continuously following-up and letting my clients know that I am here as a resource,” Joe says.

The Federal Savings Bank takes great pride in giving back to organizations that support veteran programs. Each year, they provide a sizable donation to a worthy veteran organization.

When Joe is not busy helping his clients or giving back his time, he loves to exercise and spend time with his wife, Sara, family, and friends. They look forward to attending sporting events and concerts once more spaces open up.

Looking to the future, Joe plans to continue to build on his incredible success. “I plan to continue to learn and grow and to pursue professional excellence. Moving from fitness and helping others in that sphere to this career has been a great journey. If you’re wondering how you can make a difference, just know there are a lot of great options out there to help others.

I love the role I play in my clients’ lives, and supporting others through their largest financial decision. It is an honor.”

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For more about Joe Wanta NMLS #2012867, please call 331-717-3253, email at jwanta@thefederalsavingsbank.com, or visit thefederalsavingsbank.com/joewanta www.

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Take My Word for It:

The Power of Testimonials & Making Word-of-Mouth Count Ratings, reviews, and testimonials are among the most powerful tools an agent or real estate professional has at his or her disposal. Think of it this way: almost all of us go online to get a sense of dining options, film scores, and product reviews. When it comes to real estate pros, people what the same measure of comfort and advice from those who have already experienced your services. The 22

bottom line is this: testimonials create a relatable emotional appeal to others, while giving potential clients some first-hand insight into your ability to deliver.

With all that in mind, consider the valuable rationale behind testimonials and word-ofmouth attention: how to harness it, and what it can do for you and your business.

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Testimonials and word-ofmouth buzz build your brand If you aren’t displaying positive testimonials and reviews on your social media outlets and website, then you’re missing out on a key opportunity. Those exploring your pages are likely seeking real estate representation, and reviews and testimonials serve as a first-hand glimpse into who you are and what you can do.

If you can, try to tie reviews and testimonials to specific names or social media handles, as you’ll be highlighting the interpersonal component at play. Think of it this way: potential clients are more likely to trust the experiences of past clients than to place blind faith in your pitch, which is crafted to create a sale. Most customers would rather look to the experience of fellow consumers before taking your word for it, sight unseen. Well-place testimonials and personal reviews can bridge the gap when it comes to your brand and the prospective client.

Testimonials and word-ofmouth buzz demonstrate your value compared to others Good agents are a dime a dozen, but top agents stand apart from the pack for a variety of reasons. Chief among those reasons is the ability to differentiate themselves from the norm by highlighting their personalities, their track records, their values. Testimonials and wordof-mouth buzz don’t just focus on whether an experience was good or bad. It dives into the details of personality and consumer relationships. While the qualifications of many agents might be similar, you can stand out by showTop Agent Magazine

casing stellar reviews and testimonials that shine upon your character and delivery. When pitched by two agents with similar experience and credentials, but only one has the testimonials featuring positive experiences and lasting relationships—wouldn’t you be more inclined to work with the agent who has a proven track record of success?

Do your homework and compile the testimonials that will drive your business At the close of a transaction, consider providing a comment card with room for clients to write a few reflections, or create an e-mail ready online form that makes submitting feedback a breeze. You can also touch base via e-mail and ask politely for a review of their experience with you. Referred or repeat clients are excellent candidates for testimonials, as they will already know your business well, or will likely be happy to contribute their perspective.

If asking for testimonials makes you cringe, you can always incentivize this process in minor ways. For example, you could offer a fun, cost-effective gift certificate in exchange for a testimonial.

Whichever way you gather testimonials that speak to your positive performance, there is no question that these documented first-hand experiences are priceless when it comes to drawing and retaining clients. If you want to inspire interest and build a living brand, there is no better method than by having clients vouch for your working style.

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