Michael Manzino, a Realtor with Halstead Properties in Stamford, Conn., is never short of friends. Many are his real estate clients. “I enjoy being with people,” he says. “I’ve been to clients’ weddings and met their families. I stay in touch.”

Manzino believes that getting to know clients helps him understand how he can best help them, whether they are buying, selling or renting a home. And, of course, they get to know him. “Most of my referrals are from previous clients,” he says.

Manzino knows that customer service is the key to customer satisfaction. During his previous 25-year career in finance, he learned that, more than anything, people want someone who will listen to their needs and frustrations. “I worked one-on-one with investors,” he says. “My job was to try to alleviate their problems.” He uses those same skills now in his real estate business. ... Read More