7 Free Strategies to Expand Your Network and Grow Your Real Estate Business
It Doesn't Always Take Money to Make Money
Running a successful real estate business (yes, you are a business!) can be expensive and even though the saying that you need to "spend money to make money" is true, that's not always the case. Let's get started.
Review Your Online Presence
Most buyers and sellers will start their search online. That goes for home searches as well as finding a realtor. Review your platforms to see how others perceive you and whether your online presence instills trust or needs improvement.
Key Items to Review:
Ensure that all your links are still active.
Is your photo* current? Is it under 5 years old, has your hairstyle changed etc.?
(*a new head shot isn't free, but ask your broker for an inexpensive photographer, or, you could reach out to a newer photographer and ask for free photos in exchange for tagging them on your socials)
Is your contact information correct? Do you need to update your social media links?
Are there any changes to your areas of expertise?
Has your brokerage changed?
Do you have new accreditations to add to your credentials?
Do a Google search of yourself, see if you like the results and where you rank.
Set up Your LinkedIn Profile
Unlike other platforms, LinkedIn is business-centric and a great place for potential clients to learn more about you. It's been suggested that posting things like homes for sale, etc., is not the best way to engage with your community; however, posting information such as market stats or new trends in real estate is more engaging and of more interest to a wider audience.
Ask Clients for Reviews
Asking for testimonials might seem intimidating at first, but satisfied clients are usually more than willing to share how your services positively impacted their lives.
Feeling nervous about asking is totally normal, but you know you gave it your all. Your clients are happy, and they’ve already told you that they couldn’t have done it without you, so why not ask them to put that in writing?
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has a great article called, “The Power of Testimonials and How to Ask for Them”, which says that “Testimonials not only establish trust and credibility for an agent but also showcase the [agent’s] expertise and track record. They also add a personal touch to the business, giving potential clients a glimpse of the kind of service they can anticipate.”
Add a Testimonial Link
After requesting reviews, add a "testimonial" link to your email signature. This lets email contacts easily find your testimonials on your website, LinkedIn etc. Labels like "What my clients say about working with me", "What my clients are saying", or "Client Experiences", will allow prospective clients to learn about your services directly from someone who benefited from your expertise.
You can request that clients post reviews on your website or any number of sites such as Yelp and Rank My Agent. If they'd prefer not to post a review online themselves (maybe they’re not tech savvy), ask for their testimonial via email and either post it yourself or use it in your marketing materials. The important thing is to stick with a platform that aligns with your business and is easily updated.
Never underestimate the power of a heartfelt client testimonial, as it is one of the best marketing tools for the growth of your business. Better yet, it's free. All you need to do is ask.
Create Mutually Beneficial Partnerships
Realtors are often asked for a wide range of trades and professional connections. It's crucial to develop a roster of trusted partners whom you can rely on to treat your clients, or potential clients, with fairness and respect. Painters, plumbers, electricians, mortgage brokers, and lawyers are just some of the referrals you'll be asked for. It has long been considered best practice to offer three referrals for clients to choose from and ask that they do their due diligence when hiring; however, that may differ where you practice, so ensure you're adhering to your association's guidelines.
Networking
Join a local networking group where you can interact with professionals and potential clients. Your involvement may lead to local partnerships or open you up to new ideas for marketing yourself in your community. Check out websites like Meetup to find tons of options in your area to connect with like-minded business people and grow your network.
Volunteer
This is an excellent way to give back and build strong community ties. Taking part in food drives, coat drives, or any other neighborhood initiative is a great way to support the people in your farm area and make yourself visible among homeowners.
If you’re not farming an area, not a problem. Volunteering is not only a great way of paying it forward, you’ll meet new people and people are the life blood of your business.
Small Changes Lead to Big Growth
Most of these options cost nothing to implement and will have a positive effect on your business and reputation. Act on one or two of them immediately, see what works for you, and be consistent. Some of the most effective things you can do to boost your online presence, broaden your network and validate your services, can be done with little or no money at all. Adopt some of these strategies today and make them a part of your plan for a lasting, meaningful career as a real estate professional.
Here’s to closing deals and opening doors!
