Inman recently reported that 94% of agents rode out 2023 with the same brokerage.
Relitix confirmed this trend, documenting an 18% decline in the annualized movement of agents last year.
Why do agents resist changing brokerages during uncertain times?
Because they’re fearful.
If an earthquake just happened five minutes ago, you’d immediately focus on survival.
All the thoughts you normally have about improving your household would be pushed aside until the aftershocks stopped and the crisis was over.
Agents felt the same way about their careers.
It’s hard to cognitively evaluate if it’s the right time for a brokerage change when it feels like the world is ending!
The world didn’t end, but a new normal seems to be emerging.
According to Rob Keefe, agents are again starting to evaluate their options:
The lack of recruiting activity in 2023 has been profound, however, this trend appears to be reversing.
The seasonally adjusted index has been moving toward greater mobility for six months, and the trailing 12-month measurement appears to have bottomed out.
Who’s going to benefit first from this turnaround in sentiment?
Those hiring managers who have been consistently recruiting (i.e., laying the groundwork) over the last year will benefit first from this turnaround in sentiment.
It’s true you should dig your well before you’re thirsty, but you should dig it while you’re thirsty too.
Successful hiring managers are always recruiting.
PS. Did you set recruiting aside last year when quick results didn’t materialize? If you want to jump back in the game this, a quick strategy call with Mark Johnson may be helpful.  He can help you refocus, retool, and reduce the time needed to get back on track.
