How to Rebuild Seller Engagement After an Awkward Call

Use simple resets that reopen the conversation.

Austin Beveridge

Tennessee

, Goliath Teammate

Awkward calls can disrupt the momentum of any seller’s journey. Whether the discomfort stems from miscommunication, an unexpected question, or simply a lack of rapport, both parties may leave the conversation feeling unsettled. Rebuilding engagement after such a call is not only possible—it’s essential. Doing so requires intention, empathy, and a clear plan for moving forward.

Quick Answer: To rebuild seller engagement after an awkward call, openly acknowledge the discomfort, follow up with a personalized message, and offer meaningful value in your next interaction. Use this opportunity to clarify any misunderstandings and reaffirm your commitment to addressing the buyer’s needs.

Understanding the Impact of Awkward Calls

After addressing any misunderstandings from the call, it can be beneficial to revisit key topics, such as the importance of a well-crafted partnership, which is detailed in our guide on how to structure a JV agreement in wholesaling legally.

Awkward calls can have a lasting effect on the buyer-seller relationship. The initial discomfort may erode trust or cause the buyer to question your expertise. For example, if you fumble over answers or seem unprepared, the buyer might doubt your ability to meet their needs. Addressing the situation directly is vital to prevent these doubts from lingering and to restore confidence.

Acknowledge the Awkwardness

Begin by recognizing the awkwardness of the previous call. A sincere, straightforward message can make a significant difference. For instance, you might say, "I realize our last conversation didn’t go as smoothly as we both hoped. Thank you for your patience—I’d like to clarify a few points and ensure we’re on the same page." This approach demonstrates humility and a genuine desire to improve the relationship.

Follow Up with Personalization

Once you’ve acknowledged the awkwardness, send a follow-up message tailored to the individual buyer. Reference specific details from your previous conversation. For example, if the buyer mentioned a challenge with inventory management, address that issue directly in your follow-up. This level of personalization shows you were attentive and are invested in their unique situation, rather than sending a generic message.

Provide Value in Future Interactions

Re-engagement hinges on delivering value. In your next communication, offer insights, resources, or solutions that address the buyer’s concerns. For example, if they expressed uncertainty about a market trend, share a recent industry report or a relevant case study. By proactively providing helpful information, you position yourself as a trusted advisor rather than just a salesperson.

Checklist for Rebuilding Engagement

  • After an awkward call, it can be beneficial to revisit strategies for strengthening connections, as discussed in How to Build Relationships with Agents Who Feed You Flip Deals, to help rebuild seller engagement effectively.

    Acknowledge the awkwardness in your follow-up.

  • Personalize your message based on previous discussions.

  • Offer valuable insights or resources in future communications.

  • Schedule a follow-up call to address any lingering questions or concerns.

  • Be patient; rebuilding trust is a gradual process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the awkwardness is a frequent misstep. Doing so can make the buyer feel dismissed, which may lead to further disengagement. Another common mistake is sending a generic follow-up message that lacks personalization—buyers can quickly sense when a message is insincere, which undermines trust. Finally, failing to provide value in subsequent interactions can leave the buyer questioning your relevance in their decision-making process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I say in my follow-up message?

Your follow-up message should acknowledge the awkwardness of the previous call, express gratitude for the buyer’s understanding, and clarify any points that may have been unclear. Personalize your message by referencing specific topics discussed, and include an offer of assistance or relevant information that addresses their needs.

How long should I wait before following up?

Ideally, follow up within 24 to 48 hours after the awkward call. This promptness keeps the conversation fresh in both parties’ minds and demonstrates your commitment to resolving any concerns.

What if the buyer seems uninterested after the awkward call?

If the buyer appears uninterested, it’s important to respect their space. However, you can still send a thoughtful follow-up message. Emphasize your willingness to help and provide valuable insights related to their situation. Over time, this approach can help rekindle their interest.

How can I ensure future calls go smoothly?

Preparation is crucial. Research the buyer’s background, industry, and specific challenges before your next call. Practice your talking points and anticipate potential questions. This level of preparation will help you feel more confident and minimize the likelihood of awkward moments.

Is it worth trying to rebuild engagement with a difficult buyer?

Yes, making the effort is often worthwhile. Every buyer represents an opportunity for growth, both for you and for them. Even if a buyer seems challenging, a genuine and persistent approach can sometimes transform the relationship and lead to productive discussions in the future.

How Goliath Helps You Apply This

In the nuanced world of real estate, rebuilding seller engagement after an awkward call requires not only tact but also a clear understanding of your data. With Goliath, you gain the clarity and visibility needed to identify early signals, helping you to tailor your approach with precision and care.

Armed with organized and accessible information, you can confidently make better decisions and initiate earlier, more effective communication strategies. This foresight not only smooths over past missteps but also sets the stage for more fruitful interactions moving forward.