No, not really.  I am personable, because I am super friendly, but it is all about them, not me and my stuff.

You always have something in common and that is the key to understanding. if you can use analogies that the client understands it trypically goes sommother so listen and ask questions. That is called business bonding.

A common bond of shared values establishes trust.  That goes a long way in making for a smooth transaction.

Having other things in common is nice, but I find that some agents think that's an excuse to be less of an agent and get lazy on the job. 

I'm in Sales . . .  there will always be something that I can find we have in common.  Sometimes I have to dig waaaay deeper than normal but I can always find that nugget

Val,

People like doing business with people like themselves, or in a more profound way those whose core values are similar to yours.  We make a point of working with people like that.  It makes things very pleasant and it is a win/win for all sides.  A

Not really.  

Val Evans goes without saying! Though it is a good idea to draw a line between professional and personal relationships.

Val - Not really. I find my deals go a lot smoother when I work with other great agents, title companies, appraisers, home inspectors, etc. Those are the people who really make a difference.

Nope, I maintain being professional with clients.

I work better with people that I have something in common with.   Could probably find something of interest with most clients.  I enjoy clients out here in the country, we seem to bond.  Alexandra .. I agree with you.

Yes, Definately.  That's why it's good to find out their hobbies and a little bit about them without being too pushy.

Yes, I think it helps when people have things in common.  In fact, when I place referrals, my primary consideration is trying to find a good agent who will relate to my client.

If they are from my church yes. I have sold many homes and they are quick to sing my praises.

No this doesn't make any difference. I have even had smooth transactions with out of the area buyers I've never met, and right now I'm working with an out of state seller that I will probably never meet. Our connection is the transaction. 

Val Evans I believe building rapport with a client goes a long way towards a successful transaction.

Val,
I focus on the client more than what we might have in common. I’m a senior citizen so my younger clients expect me to be a mentor not a pal.

Absolutely everybody like to start with common ground

More often than not, yes.  But not always.

A common bond, as many have shared, is the conduit to greater trust.

When my client trusts me, they have the confidence the solutions and resources needed are accessible. Unfortuneatly, so much of what make a deal go klunckity- klunk, extends well beyond the realtionship with the client.