In Step with Awesome Agent Ariana Gillette
By Julie Escobar
How do top producers stay at the top and continue to grow their businesses? We got the answers to that and more when we caught up with top producing agent Ariana Gillette who shared her thoughts on what it takes to make it – and KEEP making it in this competitive business.
Here’s what she shared…
Q: Thanks for sharing your ideas with us! Can you first tell our readers a little about yourself?
A: Hi Readers! I am a Northern Virginia native. My Husband, two kids, two German Shepherds & I currently live in Loudoun County. Real Estate is my passion and I have handled a Gazillion issues as a Realtor in this fast-paced, yet rewarding business. I have been licensed since 2003 and do $10 million in production per year, yet I am always looking for fun and creative ways to expand my business. I have a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and am a Licensed Real Estate Broker. I bring a depth of knowledge into every transaction as well as a solid sense of humor. My goal is to educate & empower my clients to make the best decisions they can while buying and selling. I want them to have the best experience possible.
Q: You entered the Master Marketing Schedule contest – can you share what you like about using this agent tool and what your favorite strategy was?
A: Let’s be honest … the everyday practice of Real Estate is tedious. Yet, that is exactly what makes us successful running our businesses. If we don’t prioritize meaningful engagement with our clients it’s just NOT going to happen. The Master Marketing Schedule makes it easy to time block your calendar to do mailings, pop-by gifts, and farming pieces.
Q: Are you working a geographic farm as well as your sphere – and can you tell our readers any tips you might have for staying top of mind?
A: My sphere is the life of my business. I door knock with door hangers, I do print for my Coming Soon, Just Listed, Just Sold marketing, and of course everyone’s favorite the Neighborhood Update. I mail the update one time per quarter, which reminds me, I’m due for Q3 mailing to my Farm! My advice? Get involved with your community and give back. That is how to make your Farm thrive with referrals.
Q: What are some of your favorite ways to stay in touch with the VIPs in your sphere of influence?
A: Coffee, lunch, pop-by gifts, invites to events and free stuff when I get tickets or passes, etc. Facebook shout-outs to customers on the anniversary of their home purchases.
Q: A lot of agents struggle with follow-up – do you have any words of wisdom for them?
A: Order Thank You cards that are blank inside and start shooting them out, and have stationary made from ProspectsPLUS! to write handwritten notes. ANYONE who gives you their email, add to your database right away — not a month from now. I am bad about this, but it does make a huge difference.
Q: One of the reasons we created the Master Marketing Schedule was to put some fun into marketing for agents, and give them outside the box ideas for connecting with clients. Do you have any fun things you do to stay motivated and on track?
A: Accountability groups, a life coach, webinars, and conferences. I’m a busy mom – but I make time for all of these when I can.
Q: If you had one piece of advice for a brand-new agent in today’s market, what would it be?
A: Use systems. Run your Real Estate business like any other business. Show up. Follow systems that every office provides or connect with one of the bigger named coaches. Create and maintain meaningful relationships with every client you work with. Go above and beyond to provide value. AND don’t TEXT all the time. Make phone calls, and meet with clients in person to develop those relationships that will be your referral business for years to come.
Q: If agents have a referral for you, how can they reach you?
A: Sure. I am available via email at Ariana@Dwellus.com, on Zillow at www.zillow.com/profile/Ariana-Gillette or Facebook — search Ariana Gillette Real Estate.
Awesome information — thank you SO much, Ariana!
Be like Ariana! Jump into the contest!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN WIN $10,000.
Need help with your marketing? Visit www.prospectsplus.com or call our marketing team at 866.405.3638 today!