Ness Lindsay's Blog - Giving you the Freedom to Sell Homes!

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

The 7 Keys to Effective Leadership

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:59:20 -0600

Every morning I receive an email from the awesome people over at www.Motivationinaminute.com. I recently received an email that was entitled: The 7 Keys to Effective Leadership.

Everyone wants to be a leader. Everyone wants to make a difference in one area or another. I enjoyed the simplicity of these 7 steps and thought I would share them with you.

This is what I received in the email:

WHAT GIVES A MAN OR WOMAN THE RIGHT TO LEAD?

It certainly isn't gained by election or appointment. Having position, title, rank, or degrees doesn't qualify anyone to lead other people. And the ability doesn't come automatically from age or experience, either. No, it would be accurate to say that no one can be given the right to lead. The right to lead can only be earned. And that takes time.

The Kind of Leader Others Want to Follow

The key to becoming an effective leader is not to focus on making other people follow, but on making yourself the kind of person they want to follow. You must become someone others can trust to take them where they want to go. As you prepare yourself to become a better leader, use the following guidelines to help you grow:

1. Let go of your ego.

The truly great leaders are not in leadership for personal gain. They lead in order to serve other people. Perhaps that is why Lawrence D. Bell remarked, "Show me a man who cannot bother to do little things, and I'll show you a man who cannot be trusted to do big things."

2. Become a good follower first.

Rare is the effective leader who didn't learn to become a good follower first. That is why a leadership institution such as the United States Military Academy teaches its officers to become effective followers first - and why West Point has produced more leaders than the Harvard Business School.

3. Build positive relationships.

Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less. That means it is by nature relational. Today's generation of leaders seem particularly aware of this because title and position mean so little to them. They know intuitively that people go along with people they get along with.

4. Work with excellence.

No one respects and follows mediocrity. Leaders who earn the right to lead give their all to what they do. They bring into play not only their skills and talents, but also great passion and hard work. They perform on the highest level of which they are capable.

5. Rely on discipline, not emotion.

Leadership is often easy during the good times. It's when everything seems to be against you - when you're out of energy, and you don't want to lead - that you earn your place as a leader. During every season of life, leaders face crucial moments when they must choose between gearing up or giving up. To make it through those times, rely on the rock of discipline, not the shifting sand of emotion.

6. Make adding value your goal.

When you look at the leaders whose names are revered long after they have finished leading, you find that they were men and women who helped people to live better lives and reach their potential. That is the highest calling of leadership - and its highest value.

7. Give your power away.

One of the ironies of leadership is that you become a better leader by sharing whatever power you have, not by saving it all for yourself. You're meant to be a river, not a reservoir. If you use your power to empower others, your leadership will extend far beyond your grasp.

In The Right to Lead, you will hear from and read about people who have done these same things and earned the right to lead others. Because of the courage they found and the character they displayed, other people recognized their admirable qualities and felt compelled to follow them.

The followers who looked to these leaders learned from them, and so can we. As you explore their worlds and words, remember that it takes time to become worthy of followers. Leadership isn't learned or earned in a moment.
~John Maxwell

Make today and everyday count.

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

No. Really, What Do You Do?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 16:19:36 -0500

I have been a Real Estate Virtual Assistant since January 2007. I have had the pleasure of meeting an abundance of Real Estate Agents, both online and in-person. It never ceases to amaze me how many agents still give me that look of a deer caught in the highlights when I say: "I'm a Virtual Assistant". The look remains and they respond with: "Ok. But, what DO you do exactly?"

REAL ESTATE VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS (REVA) HAVE BEEN AROUND SINCE THE 80's

The term Virtual Assistant isn't new, yet too many agents still don't grasp what a Virtual Assistant can do for them. In an attempt to bridge the waters, I wanted to write this blog post in hopes that I could further explain what exactly a Real Estate Virtual Assistant can do for real estate agents worldwide.

THE FREEDOM TO CHOOSE

Unlike an in-house assistant, a virtual assistant works from their own office. Office space is not required thus, reducing your over-head expenses significantly. In addition, virtual assistants pay their own taxes, benefits, sick leave, vacation time, etc.

When partnering with a Real Estate Virtual Assistant, you have the flexibility to choose when you will delegate work to your REVA. In most cases, they'll work part-time, full-time, on-call, per week, per project, on retainer, or even just a one time basis.

INDEED WE ARE PROFESSIONALS

A Real Estate Virtual Assistant is a trained professional. They have the experience, the background, and the knowledge to be the leverage you need in your business. You don't have to worry about someone who is fresh out of high school, or someone who hasn't worked in your industry before. Real Estate Virtual Assistants are familiar with real estate lingo, the dos and don'ts and the standard rules and regulations. You can be rest assured that when partnering with a REVA, you'll be satisfied with the end result.

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS

Picture this: Your sitting in your office. It's 10:00 am. Your desk is full of paperwork. You have a newspaper ad that needs a once over before sending to the publisher. You have a personal brochure that you need to create to give to new prospects. You have a website that needs updated or worse yet, you don't even have one yet. You need to get your just listed/just sold cards mailed. You have new listings that need to be uploaded on the internet. You have a client that needs feedback on their showings for the past week.

If this wasn't enough on your plate, you have 3 listing appointments booked this afternoon, 2 buyers that want to sign a contract and heaven forbid you forget to meet with Sally who has an offer on one of your listings.

While you're worrying about all of the above, your subconscious comes creeping upon you; reminding you not to forget to pick up clothes at the dry cleaners, feed the cat, and meet with your Mom for dinner. Exhausting isn't it?

THERE IS A LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL

This is exactly when a Real Estate Virtual Assistant would come in and save your day, week, and perhaps your career. A Real Estate Virtual Assistant company like Ness Lindsay would be the leverage you need to work smarter, not harder.

You could email over your newspaper ad and we'd proof it for you AND email it to the publisher on your behalf. We have a graphic designer on our team that will complete the personal brochure for you. You send over your pictures and logo and leave the rest to us. We'll even have them printed and shipped directly to you if you're not in our general area. We can either update and maintain your website or create one for you. We have for past clients, called agents to receive their feedback on the showings of listings and reported back to our client's sellers... we can do this for you too! Our team of professionals can ensure your just listed/just sold cards are designed, printed and mailed to your target area and ensure all your listings are uploaded onto the internet in a timely fashion.

So, while you're sitting at your desk feeling overwhelmed and not sure if there is a light at the end of the tunnel, learn to delegate your work load to professionals who can ensure your work is done exactly the way you want it. Now that we have taken away over half of your work load; you now have the time to meet with your clients, prospects and colleagues. We're sorry but going to the dry cleaners, feeding the cat and meeting Mom; you'll have to do on your own. Unless, she's making something good for dinner...we may reconsider!

Don't be afraid to seek assistance of professionals ~ we're here to help and we are passionate about what we do.

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

HOW A PERSONAL GESTURE CAN AFFECT YOUR CLIENTS' IMPRESSION

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:14:44 -0500

In my personal life I believe that it is important to remember special occasions for my family and friends. I have carried that belief over to my business life as well. I make a point of sending personal hand written cards to my clients for special occasion that I am aware of but most importantly hand written thank you notes. I always send the cards with the hope that it puts a smile on the face of the person reading it. Last month the tables were turned.

A TASTE OF MY OWN MEDICINE:

Recently, l received a hand written birthday card from one of my clients with a gift certificate for dinner at a local restaurant. I was surprised as usually I am the one making note of special occasions. I usually communicate with this particular client via text so I quickly sent a text that said "Thank you" to which to reply came... "You're worth it"!

MORAL OF THE STORY

I can still remember how important and appreciated I felt at that moment. Remember it doesn't take thousands of dollars to make an impression on your clients, Sometimes it can take just a small personal touch or a token of appreciation to make someone's day, and the impression it makes will stick with that person for a long time to come.

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

5 TIPS TO STAND OUT FROM YOUR COMPETITION

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 17:27:19 -0500

All agents want to be successful; all agents want to be recognized within their target area as "the" go-to agent when buying or selling real estate.

HOW CAN YOU STAND OUT?

In addition to marketing your business on a daily basis, we have composed 5 insider tips that will help add leverage to your business and gain a higher level of success. These tips have been gathered by our company as we have observed top producing real estate agents run their business.

1. Branded identity: Top producing real estate agents have a branded identity. This consists of creating a banner or logo as well as the design material provided by their real estate brokerage. Being an agent of a recognized brokerage will certainly help with your visibility among prospects. However, successful agents create their own unique brand that is consistent across all marketing material.

2. Show them...Don't tell them: It is great to sit and talk about yourself. You could tell them how great you are, tell them how many homes you've sold and tell them why they should choose you over another agent. Top producing real estate agents SHOW their prospects how great they are. They compile visually stimulating presentations that are jammed packed with web pages, awards received, cutting edge videos and testimonials from past clients.

3. Social Network: Social networking is the formation of individual or organizations that come together and discuss common interests. Market your business for FREE on social networking websites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Activerain.

4. Add Flair: The majority of agents we observed, added flair to everything they did. Through creative channels, being unique and using high resolutions photos. Clients can be sure to notice you if you continue to raise the bar.

5. Consistency, consistency, consistency: Last yet just as important. All agents who work for success are consistent in everything they do with their business 365 days per year!

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

HAPPY CANADA DAY EVERYONE!

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:42:42 -0500

Just wanted to say Happy Canada Day to all my Canadian AR Friends. May you enjoy this holiday and be safe.

Vanessa Lindsay

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Is Your Communication Stopping You From Landing New Clients?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 13:36:30 -0500

Communication is such an integral part of our everyday lives. We use it to express our emotions and convey our thoughts. If we're not fully equipped with essential communication tools, it will hinder us from effectively interacting with prospective clients thus, preventing us from landing new clients.

The Ness Lindsay Team is in the process of writing an e-book on this very topic! We'll explore communication in general, discuss different communication styles and provide you with tools to implement; giving you the leverage you need to succeed in the real estate industry. Our cutting edge e-book will also include worksheets and exercises to help you master the techniques discussed.

Sounds exciting right?

Before we release our state-of-the-art e-book, we'd like your opinion of 3 key questions. Please take a moment to fill out our Communication Survey. Your time and opinion is greatly appreciated.

Be sure to stay tuned for our release date!

We appreciate you,

The Ness Lindsay Team

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Your Handshake Speaks a Thousand Words

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 10:04:53 -0500

A handshake is more than just a simple gesture we share with family, friends, business acquaintances and with strangers.

A handshake can and most often is part of our first impression we portray to others. It is extremely important to ensure your handshake is firm, effective and shows confidence.

A handshake does matter and a strong one can make a big difference the next time you set out to meet your next prospective client.

Check out this great article entitled: "10 Tips on How to Shake hands with Confidence."

If you feel your handshake needs some work - ask a friend to practice with you and give pointers as needed.

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Embrace Life’s Precious Moments

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:06:49 -0500

I am writing this post today to remind us all to stop and embrace life's precious moments. All too often, we tend to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our busy professional lives. We forget to stop and smell the roses if you will.

This past weekend, I visited my local butterfly conservatory and was astonished with the beauty of it all. I was able to slow down, unwind and rejuvenate from my professional career as a real estate assistant.

Don't let life simply pass you by, take time to enjoy things that matter to you. Whether you're spending time with your children, loved ones, reading a book or visiting your local butterfly conservatory; take time for you. Embrace and enjoy it!

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

7 Marketing Tips for Buyer Agents in Todays Economy

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 20:30:36 -0500

In today's economy, everyone is discovering or looking for new ways to cut costs while still being productive and maintaining a high level of service.

Michael LaPeter, a real estate broker in San Francisco recently published a press release entitled: "Starving Real Estate Agent? Seven Ways to Cut the Fact and Start Saving". He describes seven easy marketing tips that will assist buyer agents in making their business more productive while 'trimming the fat' in today's economy.

7 Easy Marketing Tips:

1. Use Free Online Office Software.

2. Use Free/ Low Cost Online Transaction Management Software.

3. Use Low Cost, High Impact Single Property Websites.

4. Use Free/ Low Cost Online CRM Software.

5. Track Your Expenses.

6. Instead of Advertising, Try Picking Up The Phone

7. Consider Working From Home.

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

http://www.didyouknow.org/info/info.htm

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Trouble Maintaining Your Blog?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 09:28:20 -0500

I have heard so many people comment on their inability to blog. They just can't think of anything to say, they suffer from writers block, or they simply can't find the time.

I hear you LOUD and clear! Blogging can be quite tedious for some. Finding new content, or more importantly; quality content, tends to set people back. I too sometimes find this difficult and in the beginning of my business start-up, I put on my fastest running shoes and ran in the opposite direction when someone said "blogging".

Trust me. Don't run. Embrace blogging with a new outlook - it can be fun!

So, let me share some tidbits with you. Here are a few questions to ask yourself BEFORE you begin to tackle the world of blogging.

1. Who is your target market? Who you do want to speak to when you're writing?

2. What areas or topics do you want to talk about? Marketing to clients, tips for other agents?

Once you are able to define who you want to reach out to and what you want to discuss, it will give you a more defined area to start with.

Some tidbits to help you tackle your topics:

1. When you are in the mood to write and your creative juices are flowing, sit down and write. Don't stop until all your ideas are on paper. You can keep a blogging book or simply type them into Microsoft. Keep these ideas and blog posts on file. This will help you alleviate your stress when you have writers block. On the days you don't feel like writing or can't come up with a topic, just pull a blog post you've previous written about and submit it.

2. Try and write when you can give your undivided attention to your thoughts. Don't try to write on a busy day when you know you won't be able to concentrate.

3. Keep a ‘blogging' book with you at all times. Write jot notes for ideas down wherever you are. You just never know when an idea will come to you.

4. Search the internet and other people's blogs to get ideas of what people are talking about.

5. Visit the below sites to get some ideas:

http://www.metronews.ca/toronto/live/article/163822

http://www.remonline.com/detail.aspx?menu=26&app=153&cat1=473&dt=1217365&tp=12&lk=g

http://realtytimes.com/

http://www.remonline.com/

http://realestatetomato.typepad.com/the_real_estate_tomato/2007/07/food-for-fodder.html

http://www.famousagents.com/content-ideas/

http://www.rsspieces.com/a-year-s-worth-of-real-estate-blog-ideas-6

http://www.rsspieces.com/real-estate/365-Real-Estate-Blog-Ideas

Best of luck and happy blogging!

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Wanna Know Why I love Doing What I do?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 20:26:06 -0500

As some of you are aware, I am a member of the Virtual Assistant Forums. A forum that is truly one of a kind and a great place for virtual assistants.

For the entire month of April, I am a feature interview with this great forum. To learn why I LOVE being a virtual assistant and working with the real estate industry; check out the interview here.

To Your Success as Always,

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 22:07:36 -0500

"You don't have to be everything to everyone; you just have to be something to someone." Don't you think this quote speaks volumes?

Seriously though, let's embrace this profound statement for a moment...

(Embracing)

So, here's the thing...I've quickly discovered as a business owner; I've strived to market myself to a large group of people, I also had a desire to "please" everyone.

Here's the problem:

I simply couldn't! I couldn't possibly please everyone, it's just not possible. When I created my marketing material with promises to my prospects that I was the best; and in turn prospects just had to do business with me, I was falsely advertising myself and my core values of my business. Why you ask? Because I couldn't possibly be everything to everyone!

Kicking it old school - Take it back to the basics

Instead, I should have been focusing my attention and my efforts on a being something to someone. I realized I had to take my efforts back to the basics. I told prospects that I would be myself, be honest, and promise to offer then only what I knew I was capable of fulfilling. Instead of owning Girl Friday and promising the "be-all"; I did some soul searching and found what I was truly passionate about. Who did I really want to help? What could I honestly offer them? With these answers, it was only a matter of time before I opened NessLindsay.com.

It was this outlook that allowed me to be me. I didn't have to pretend, I was fully confident in my abilities. I didn't need to try to re-invent the wheel. I was able to bring things back to the basics and wasn't afraid to offer personable services to my clients - services with all my quirkiness to boot!

Just be yourself

You don't need flashy technology or big empty promises to grab the attention of prospective clients. You just need to be you - narrow your market to the people who match who you are. Don't break yourself trying to be everything to everyone....just be something to someone! Clients will naturally gravitate towards you....with all your quirkiness too because they can relate...you quickly become human again. This feeling is pretty surreal. Since I have begun being something to someone, I have grown my business 10 ten-fold!

Best of luck to you and your business' success!

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Weekend to End Breast Cancer

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 20:13:10 -0600

My Mom has embarked on an incredible journey and has joined a great team to help raise funds for the Weekend to End Breast Cancer.

Cancer has directly affected my family and I couldn't be more proud of her for taking part in a great cause. If you would like to help support my Mom to reach her fundraising goals, please continue reading. If not, I thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Vanessa Lindsay

___________________________________________________________________________________

Hi Everyone:

On September 11-13, 2009 I'll be participating in a very special event called The Weekend to End Breast Cancer.

I'll walk "60 kilometers over the course of one weekend" with thousands of other women and men. The net proceeds will support research, treatment, and services through The Princess Margaret for breast cancer and other women's cancers.

I've agreed to raise at least $2,000, but I've set my personal goal at $3,500.00. So I need your help. Would you please consider making a donation? Use the link at the bottom of this email, and go visit my site - and please take the time to support me. Please keep in mind how far I'm walking - and how hard I'll have to train.

According to the National Cancer Institute of Canada, approximately 20,500 Canadian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, and about 5,400 will die from the disease. And there are many other cancers that also effect women. That's why I'm walking so far. To do something bold about breast cancer and other women's cancers. I hope that you'll share this incredible adventure with me - by supporting me in my fundraising efforts.

Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Sincerely,

Debbie Blanchard

If you cannot access this link, hold down the control key and then use your mouse to click on the link. Can't tell you how much I appreciate your support!

Click here to visit my personal page.
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://www.endcancer.ca/site/TR/Events/Toronto2009?px=2877518&pg=personal&fr_id=1323&fl=en_US&et=9kQ7aH0w53VxlaQ8-Cv55w..&s_tafId=219336

Click here to view the team page for The Country 95.3 Rack Pack
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://www.endcancer.ca/site/TR/Events/Toronto2009?team_id=75406&pg=team&fr_id=1323&fl=en_US&et=dJWieZOwrrNC3xO43D4TsA..&s_tafId=219336

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

For Free...Yes, Really...For Free!

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 21:30:01 -0600

First before I get into the juicy details of my blog, let me start by apologizing for being off the radar for a while. I must apologize but I have been busy helping clients and building my business. I have added three new team members to better assist clients and meet their needs and extend services. I have also been putting together a portfolio for my site so you can view the fantastic projects I've completed for past clients. Stay tuned...I will advise when it is up and available!

ON WITH THE JUICY DETAILS

Did the title of my blog catch your attention? Absolutely it did! Why? Because I used the word free and I did it twice.

Who doesn't like to receive something for free? I am mean totally free with no strings attached.

And everyone wants to know "What's in it for me?" Right?

You got it!

So, why not be the innovative agent you are and start offering your clients and prospective clients things for...er...free?

It doesn't have to be gigantic. It just has to fill their needs. Whether it be a report, a tangible item or an after sale/purchase gift; shower prospects and clients with free items.

PEAK THEIR INTEREST

Give them something they can actually use, something informative, or an item that's fun and "just because". If you not sure what to offer your clients, ask them. Provide a poll on your website, monthly newsletter or email. Asking your clients what they would like to receive more of, will give you a solid ground to build ideas and begin captivating their interest.

You know you want people talking about you around the water cooler at work. "Guess what my agent just gave me for free..." Give them something to talk about.

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

http://www.NessLindsay.com

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

How Effective are You?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:40:15 -0600

As a business owner, have you implemented a system to monitor your effectiveness? Do you know if your customer service is effective? How about yourself as a manager? Is your website attracting clients?

The above questions play a key role in the outcome of your business. Don't wait until your business goes under before you say "I should have...or...I could have."

I encourage you to set a date aside that will be dedicated strictly to a professional evaluation. Look at your business as a whole and from an objective stand point. Gather statistics (#'ers don't lie) about every aspect of your business. Maintain your research on a weekly or monthly basis and review this information. Is there something you could be doing better? Perhaps you need to implement a marketing campaign? How much time do you spend on SEO?

A great way to find out if your effective with your clients is to ask for a testimonial. GET FEEDBACK! Some clients won't willingly provide a testimonial on their own accord. You need to ASK! Review the testimonials and listen to what your clients have to say. Ask for their permission to post their testimonial on your website. This will also help build your reputation and show prospective clients that you can be trusted. While your at it, ask them for a referral. Each client you have knows hundreds of people and they know people etc...

There will be nothing worse than your ultimate failure as a business owner because you didn't take the time to gather information and make changes as necessary. Re-visit your business plan, are you meeting your goals? If yes, make new ones! Always give yourself something to work towards.

Here is a little homework assignment:

Complete the following questionnaire BEFORE you do your research. Upon completion of your research answer the questions again for a comparison. It is very important that you answer the questionnaire the first time around as honestly as possible. Then when you answer the questionnaire the second time, fill in the answers according to your research.

Effectiveness Questionnaire

1. Is you customer service effective? YES NO UNSURE

2. Are you an effective Manager/Business Owner? YES NO UNSURE

3. Is your website attracting customers? YES NO UNSURE

4. Is your website useful to your clients? YES NO UNSURE

5. Do you have an effective procedure in place? YES NO UNSURE

6. Do you have a marketing compaign? YES NO UNSURE

7. Is your marketing campaign effective? YES NO UNSURE

8. Are you working to your full potential? YES NO UNSURE

9. Do you optimize your website regularly? YES NO UNSURE

10. Are your clients satisfied with your work? YES NO UNSURE

11. Do you receive referrals from clients? YES NO UNSURE

12. Are you making goals regularly? YES NO UNSURE

13. Are you attaining the goals you set? YES NO UNSURE

15. Are you maintaining your promise to clients? (i.e. turn around time) YES NO UNSURE

Happy Self Reflecting!

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay

Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Something to Remember

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:57:59 -0600

Person: "Vanessa, can you create an excel spreadsheet for me? I need you to enter some numbers and automatically calculate the totals."

Me (Vanessa): "Absolutely. Send me over the information. I'll create it for you and add some flair. I can't wait to get these started. I'll have it back to you by the end of the day."

Person: "Wow. That would be great. Can I ask you a question?"

Me (Vanessa): "Of course!"

Person: Why do you sound so excited? It's only a spreadsheet with numbers?"

Me (Vanessa): "You are a valued client. I appreciate your business and I love what I do."

This is just a little food for thought. No matter what business you're in, LOVE what you do. Clients will feel your enthusiasm and be more inclined to give you more business or a warm referral if they are pleased with your efforts no matter the size of the project they give.

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay (REVA)

Http:www.NessLindsay.com

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

SEO: Think like a Consumer

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:35:44 -0600

I have heard many people ask "How do you know which keywords and phrases to focus on for Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?"

This would be my response to said question:

THINK LIKE A REAL ESTATE AGENT

First, you'll want to define or tweak your target market. Who is your audience? What area(s) are you farming? Define the people you want to provide real estate services to.

THINK LIKE A CONSUMER

If you were looking to buy or sell a home within your area, what keywords would you use to find a home or an agent? Put yourself in the shoes of your target market. What methods would you use to get the information you need?

Make a list of all your thoughts. Then type these keywords into a major search engine. What are the results? Explore the results and see what other agents are doing. Try and think outside the box. Don't necessarily strive to achieve high rankings for demanding keywords. Find phrases that are unique for your area. Is there a specific area within your city that you'd like to focus on?

HERE IS AN EXAMPLE:

I live in Georgetown, Ontario. A high demand phrase would be "Homes for sale in Georgetown, Ontario." Instead of using this keyword, I might want to focus my efforts on a specific area in Georgetown such as, "Homes for sale in Glen Williams Georgetown." This phrase isn't as sought after as the first and would yield greater results for my SEO campaign.

Do your research and think like a consumer when formulating your keyword phrases. Once you implement your new phrases, be sure to install tools that will allow you to track your success. This perhaps is as important as generating new keyword phrases.

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay (REPA)

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Client Quarterly Incentive

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:05:30 -0600

Yet another great way to keep in contact with your clients is to host a quarterly contest. You can either run the contest in your monthly newsletter, or write a personal note to clients detailing your offer.

Posting the contest in your newsletter is a great way to discover if your clients are actually reading it every month. The prize for the contest should be desirable for your clients. Don't be afraid to spend a little money in order to catch the attention of your readers. At the same time, don't make the contest too difficult and discourage them from taking part.

You could ask for a referral and for every referral submitted; your client will receive one ballot for each referral given. Don't set a limit on the number of ballots allowed. Your client will then have a chance to receive a $200.00 gift card to Home Depot or Rona.

Be sure to set clear rules for the contest, and a dead line for submission. Draw a ballot on the specified date, and be sure to thank all participants and announce the winner in the following month's newsletter. Hand write a thank you card to the winner and include their prize. Feel free to ask clients what type of prizes they would like to see offered for future challenges.

Remember, you might spend $200.00 on a quarterly prize, but, a warm referral from a satisfied client is priceless!

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay (REPA)

Http://www.NessLindsay.com

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

What Makes A Website Successful?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:02:22 -0600

I recently took part in a webinar with one of my clients. The webinar discussed many aspects of a successful website for REALTORS.

Below is an overview of the 5 Essential Steps to having a successful website in the real estate industry.

1. Branding your identity.

2. Ensuring your website appeals to your target market.

3. Getting found on search engines. (completing Search Engine Optimization)

4. Formulating great content

5. Having a site that is useful and user friendly.

Creating a website that encompasses these essential steps will certainly give you that leverage you need against competitors.

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay (REVA)

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

http://www.NessLindsay.com

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

What Motivates You?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:00:55 -0600

I remember many years ago, I was searching for my first apartment. I wanted something special that I could call my own. While I was out apartment searching, I was shown this one particular apartment that although I didn't rent, it has stayed with me.

At the time, I thought the person who had lived there was extremely weird. On almost every surface in the apartment, there was a stickly note with a comment written on it. For example; On the mirror in the bathroom the note said "You're beautiful!", on one kitchen cupboard, the note read "You deserve it!". There must have been at least 100 yellow sticky notes all over the place!

At the time, I suppose I was too young to grasp the significance of these messages for the person who lived there. Since then, this apartment and the notes have always stayed with me and I have begun my own "note" system to help me stay focused and motivated in my Virtual Assistant business.

I have created a goal chart that I have placed on my desk to help me stay focused and achieve my goals. I am constantly viewing the chart and making changes or most importantly, checking my goals off as I achieve them! I also have a card from my mother that I have taped to my wall near my desk that reads the following:

"To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also DREAM not only plan, but also BELIEVE!"

Creating a personal motivation system can help you achieve your goals and dreams! What is your motivational system?

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay

Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Supply Your Clients with Feedback

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:59:27 -0600

Did an agent recently show one of your homes and you didn't have time to ask for feedback? If you can relate, you definitely need to contact Ness Lindsay today!

During the first week or two, it is important to gather as much feedback from prospective buyers as possible. Tallying this information and relaying it to your home seller will help determine what people like and dislike about the home. Utilizing this important information will determine if changes need to be made and if the price of the home is accurate.

Don't let another day pass by without providing this essential service to your home sellers!

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay (REPA)

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Irresistible Seller Menus

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:57:55 -0600

Gaining sellers in a competitive market can prove to be quite difficult especially, if your market materials are to par.

In addition to compelling marketing materials, sellers would be tempted to indulge in your services if you were to offer an attractive commission plan to them.

You may currently be losing business to other REALTORS ® who are offering a lower commission rate. Use a seller menu and present clients with the choice of services they want for their home at a commission acceptable to them.

Here is an example:

Menu Choice	Commission Rate	Client Receives
Client Care Choice 1	5 %	For sale sign, listing on home boards.
Client Care Choice 2	5.5 %	Home boards, for sale sign, newspaper ad and personal website.
Client Care Choice 3	6 %	Home board, feature sheets, for sale sign, talking sign/rider, newspaper ad, powercards, and all other advertising avenues.

Creating a menu shows prospective clients that you're not just in real estate for the money but making sure your seller's needs are met. Implementing this marketing tool will give you that competitive edge to help you stand out in your local market.

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

http://www.NessLindsay.com

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

Do You Have A Presence On The Web?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:56:14 -0600

In 2006, a study was conducted of 1272 French Canadians and their internet habits. The study found that 80% of users prefer Google as their search engine. 87% of people interviewed said they use the internet everyday. This number is pretty significant and further explains the importance of not only having a website, but one that can be found by prospective buyers!

Interestingly enough, in 2007, the National Association of REALTORS ® released a survey that revealed 73% of prospective buyers that saw a home on the internet drove by/viewed the home of interest. 57% of people, who viewed a home on-line, completed a walk through of the home.

It goes without saying being in the real estate industry, it is imperative to have a solid business foundation in all areas. 43% of buyers who found an agent were referred to by a friend, while 11% used an agent they worked with previously and 8% found an agent via the internet.

Having a top-notch website also means beating your competition for search results and showing up consistently on the first page for your targeted keywords. 15% of the French Canadian users interviewed don't bother looking at the second page of search results. 40% of the people, who do look at the second page, don't bother looking any further. Statistics show the top 3 results on a page get 60% of all traffic. Therefore, being on the second page of a search result basically means your business is non-existent!

With today's technology, the importance of having a presence in your local community as well as on the internet is so vital. Especially when 89% of agents have a website!

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay (REPA)

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA

http://www.cornerstones.net/quiz1.htm

Direct: 416 420 3519

Office: 289 891 8446

"You don't have to be everything to everyone, you just have to be something to someone"

What's Your Management Style?

Vanessa Lindsay (Ness Lindsay) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:54:01 -0600

As a small business owner, you took a leap of faith and started your own business. Congrats! You also probably put a lot of blood shed and tears into your business to get you where you are today. Again, Congrats!

Let me ask you this: Do you know what your management style is? Do you know if you are or will be an effective manager? If you haven't thought of this already...YIKES! You probably should!

Check out these Top 10 Management Pitfalls:

1. Putting Policies ahead of people.

2. Lack of Communication.

3. Failing to hear what your employees have to say.

4. Not acknowledging that you don't have all the answers.

5. The glass is always half empty. (Focusing on the negative)

6. Not accepting responsibility.

7. Showing Favouritism

8. "Just do it" - failure to explain what needs to be done.

9. Too much technology. (Don't hide behind technology and lose your people skills)

10. Never change. (Not being open to change)

To read more about these top ten pitfalls, please visit http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/workforce-management/3997-1.html

To test your own Management style and discover where you can make adjustments, visit the links below. Remember it is better to be pro-active and learn now!

What's your Leadership Style?: http://www.computerworld.com/managementtopics/management/story/0,10801,98557,00.html

Think You're an Effective Manager?

Management Style Attitude Test:

http://www.allbusiness.com/human-resources/workforce-management/3997-1.html

To Your Success,

Vanessa Lindsay

Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

I appreciate you,

Vanessa Lindsay, REPA