Book Recommendations for New Agents

[Ben Morand]

Hey guys! My name is Ben Morand and I am a 20 year old college student at the University of Florida. Recently, I completed my pre-licensing course and I am planning on taking my exam to become a licensed agent in mid-August.

I am wondering if anyone has some book recommendations for getting started as a new agent? I’m thinking in terms of actually getting leads, building connections, structuring systems, marketing, negotiation, etc. Not so much in terms of studying for the exam. I already have books and flash cards and practice tests for that.

The only big books I’ve heard of are the ones by Ryan Serhant. Are these good or are they more so motivational? If anyone has some other recommendations, I’d love to hear!

Thanks guys!

[Irene Nash]

Hi @Ben Morand,

For negotiating I think these three are very good and better than some of the negotiating books more commonly recommended.

- Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss - if you have an Audible account (free for 1st month including a free book like this one) I recommend listening to this one seeing as voice tone is part of what he teaches.

- Secrets of Power Negotiating  by Richard Dawson - I can't remember who on here recommended it but that's why I picked it up and I'm glad I did. Not a fan of the author's penny-pinching mindset (i.e. always get a deal even if it's pretty much a steal) but the techniques he teaches are IMO legit and also even if you don't use them it's super helpful to be able to recognize if someone is using them on you. Have used the 'flinch' in an email negotiation since reading the book and it did work. Also easy to read, with a very short chapter on each teaching. Not sure if there's an Audible version but I'm guessing the print version like what I have is best for reference.

- Pitch Anything by Oren Klaff - also probably best on Audible. Kind of weird in some ways but has some helpful concepts, including an interesting argument on how to start a presentation (i.e. not by saying thanks).

Business Marketing:

The 1-Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dib. Very practical.

Actually getting stuff done rather than just thought about:

Atomic Habits by James Clear (also good on Audible, he has a good voice).

Finish: Give Yourself the Gift of Done (and also good on Audible, the author narrates and is funny).

BTW I think Audible is a great business tool if you don't already have it, you'll spend a lot of time driving (plus good for time spent working out, etc.) and can be listening to highly useful and/or motivational books at the same time. Best of luck in your new career!