As real estate agents, we live our lives in the world of diverse property types, complex transactions, ever-changing market conditions and demanding client expectations. Some agents, especially those with limited experience, stumble over the complexities.

A recent incident on an online forum caught my attention, as an agent who had managed to snag a $1.5 million listing was seeking advice on how to effectively market the property to attract buyers. By his own admission, he had no idea where to start.

This scenario, while seemingly innocent, brought a disturbing reality to the forefront. Imagine a surgeon, right before a critical operation, asking his peers on social media, “What’s the best way to perform open-heart surgery?” Seems absurd, right? As real estate professionals, we are tasked with guiding individuals through one of the most significant financial transactions of their lives. And we are expected to know what we are doing.

The growing number of licensed real estate agents presents a double-edged reality. While a wave of fresh talent joins our industry every year, the regulatory bodies have set a low bar of entry. This has flooded our industry with many novice agents who lack the knowledge required to handle the complex responsibilities inherent to our profession. It’s unsettling to think that the owner of a $1.5 million home hired a real estate agent who has “no idea” how to market it. Yet, this situation is not unique; it is symptomatic of a broader issue where agents lack the skills and expertise to perform their roles effectively.

Thankfully, the remedy is within our reach, and it’s not an insurmountable task. The solution involves plugging our knowledge holes with personalized training and mentorship tailored to our needs. As more and more agents willingly submit themselves to expert instruction and commit to mastering necessary skills, our industry can not only weather this storm, but also use it as a catalyst for improvement. By integrating a strong mentorship program with an unwavering commitment to personal and professional development, we can equip agents with the tools they need, fostering a workforce of well-prepared and confident professionals.

Our profession is one of the highest callings of all consumer service careers. We are not just facilitating a financial transaction; we are guiding individuals and families through a process that significantly affects their lives. The trust placed in us is immense, comparable to few other service providers. It is a mantle we should wear with honor and pride.

So, fellow agents, it’s high time we kick it up a notch and commit ourselves to the continuous pursuit of excellence. Embrace learning, sharpen your skills and renew your commitment to serving your clients at the highest possible level. Not only will this raise your game, but it will also help lift the bar of professionalism across the industry.

A central pillar of this professional development is constant and clear client communication. By keeping clients in the loop, we foster trust, prevent misunderstandings and facilitate smoother transactions. This sets apart the professionals from the amateurs. By placing a spotlight on communication, we not only improve our service, but also contribute to creating a higher industry standard.

Every listing, whether valued at $500,000 or $1.5 million, represents someone’s dream, someone’s investment and someone’s financial future. Such significant stakes demand nothing less than our utmost professional dedication and competence.

Just as a surgeon understands exactly where to make an incision well before they walk into the operating room, we should aim to become knowledgeable, competent and dependable professionals who preserve the honor and the high calling of our profession.

Dennis Jones is the author of “62 Tips for Real Estate Professionals,” and the founder of RARE Agents, a virtual coaching and mentoring program for Really Awesome Real Estate Agents. Jones has been training, mentoring and coaching agents for over 20 years.

Email Dennis at Dennis@RareAgents.com or visit RareAgents.com for more information.