Some real estate agents enter the business with a huge sphere of influence to tap for their first deals. A lot of these agents are members of civic organizations, churches, or philanthropic groups. Even parents active in the local PTA come to the business with a list of potential clients.
Sound a bit mercenary?
On the contrary, using your community, social and familial contacts to help you cultivate potential clients makes sense.
“Involvement” is the operative word
One would assume that the busier the real estate agent – the more successful his practice – the less likely he is to volunteer within the community. That assumption is wrong.
Successful agents that understand the power of delegation and hire a staff, even if it’s one assistant, typically have a little time to devote to a community cause or to a personal passion.
When asked how they give back, those who claim they don’t have time to get into the community say they donate money.
While giving to non-profits, charities, churches, and other organizations is commendable, it is not really “community involvement.”
So, don’t let us stop you from writing those checks. We just hope you’ll consider giving some of your time as well.
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Mingling online doesn’t count either
The internet has changed many things about the way agents run their businesses, including how they stay in touch with past clients and their spheres. Much of it revolves around the use of social media.
But is social networking comparable to meeting face-to-face within the community?
Don’t get me wrong, being social via tech is valuable to your business. So, mingle online all you want, but it should be in addition to in-person involvement.
Meet and greet
This is where the meat of your community involvement campaign is – those organizations where you can contribute your time and talent and meet lots of folks from the community you serve.
Activities are more relaxed than the typical real estate transaction, so people get to know you as a person, not as a real estate agent.
Let’s face it – there isn’t much that distinguishes one agent from another, but on a personal level, it’s easy to set yourself apart.
Network with a passion
It’s important to pick a cause for which you feel some affinity – preferably a passion. This way, you can focus your efforts on the cause, not the leads. The leads will come – just give it some time.
Of course, if you have a passion – say for helping veterans or tutoring children – half the battle is won right there. If you have lots of interests, do some online research to help pare down the choices. Here are several places to start:
- AmericaCorps (ideal for Baby Boomers or those specializing in that niche)
There are numerous civic clubs to consider as well, such as
Finally, ask your local church or school what kind of help they may need, and if you’re athletic, become a volunteer soccer, baseball, football, or tennis coach.
PLUS: When you have time…below are some marketing tools to help support your success.
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