Using a sign-in sheet at open houses always felt awkward. Do I hand it to them right when they walk-in? Do I tell them the sellers have requested everyone signs in? I’ve tried leaving it on a table by the entryway, but it would get ignored. Then one day I stumbled on an awkward presentation that landed. So I repeated it, and it landed again… and again. Let me explain:
I have a flyer and a sign-in sheet for you.
- Have a clipboard with the sign-in sheet clipped on.
- On top of the sign-in sheet have a flyer for the open house.
- On top of the flyer have a pen, so that with your left-hand you can pinch the back of the clipboard and the pen which holds both pieces of paper in place. This leaves your right hand free to introduce yourself with a handshake.
After I introduced myself and shook their hand I would slowly say, “I have a flyer and a sign-in sheet for you.” At this point I would use my right hand to grab the flyer and awkwardly wiggled it out from under the pen. I would extend the clipboard with pen and sign-in sheet while pulling the flyer back. Hopefully you follow the mechanics here.
What I noticed when I led with “I have a flyer” and they could see it, their motion to grab it began. And as I continued with “and a sign-in sheet” the momentum to grab what I was offering was already happening. It felt like a better delivery than standing there with just the sign-in sheet.
Pro tip: DONT TALK while they have the sign-in sheet in their hands. Let them do what they are going to do in peace. And what ever the outcome, be fine with it.
One guy said, “do I have to give you my phone number?” I replied, “Not if you don’t want me to call you.” We laughed it off as I told them about the house. Remember the sign-in sheet is just a clue. Later in the open house if they like the house (or you) I highly recommend directly asking for their contact info.
PJS
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