I was talking with Colleen Kulikowski awhile back, and she was explaining to me why she had taken the time, to organize the Associates she had added.  She said that by "grouping" your Associates, they will be easier to manage.  So I did.  Next, I thought, how can you utilize and benefit from the Associates you've added, and how do they benefit when you add them?

If I add you as an Associate, it may be for one or many reasons.  I either know you, like your Blog, maybe you left me a comment that really stood out, or what if I just like your picture because you look professional and nice.  Either way, I have chosen to add you to my Associates.


Today, as I was sorting through my Associates, reviewing their profiles, checking out their blogs and web-pages, I decided to look at their Associates.  That's when I realized the potential of the Associates list.  As I was reviewing "YOUR" Associates, I was reading the comments section, and what other members had written about you.  WOW!! It really had an impact on me. (enough so, that I had to write this post).


Next, I went back to mine to see what members had said about me... some comments were funny, some appreciative, but alot of them were blank!  And on yours too?!  Can I make a humble suggestion?  If you have added an Associate to your Active Rain profile, will you go back and make a short little comment about that individual?  We all comment on each others blogs many many times, day after day,  but this "one" comment might be the most important comment of all.  This is where other members and readers get to see what people say and think about you

This page itself, looks like a self propelling resume' of third party endorsements, references and referrals all in one!  When I was reading some of the comments, these are a couple that stood out to me! 

 

  • Jeff Turner - YOU ARE ONE OF THE BEST IN THE BUSINESS KEEP UP YOUR GOOD WORK. 

  • Margaret Rome - A true lady that I would trust to represent me in any real estate transaction. 

  • Rick & Ines - A nice Realtor couple combining forces for the consumer's benefit.  

  • Sharon Simms - Super real estate broker and talented writer; #1 Florida blogger 

  • Mike Mueller - Great individual to work with. Impossible to go wrong with him when chosen as a loan officer. 

  • Maureen Henry - Maureen is a hard worker, a persistent learner, happy to help others and a good home stager.

  • Rich Jacobson- Very helpful to me as I was learning to navigate Active Rain. Great guy!  

     
  • Maureen McCabe - For those going to or from Central Ohio, you MUST look up Maureen - simply the best  there is. 

  • Jeff Belonger- Jeff is the sort of person that takes his work seriously, and adds the personal touch. He knows the value of the human side of this business. To him, you are not just numbers on a page or a FICO score. He will go the extra mile to get the loan you need, when you need it. 

  • Colleen Kulikowski - Awesome Realtor & an expert in Marco Island. 

  • Kristal Kraft - Great gal, great innovator, one of the nation's best utilizers of real estate websites. 

 

I know you won't get AR points if you leave a nice comment on your Associates, but you may score BIG POINTS with them and their readers.  Be a good member, do a good deed, pay it forward, and go place a comment in everyone of the Associates you've added, and hopefully they'll pay it forward.  Sorry if you have 236, but trust me, it will be worth it!  :-)

Remember to make your comment professional, honest, and sincere.  This is where your comment will "STAND OUT" more than any other place on the rain, so make it count.   Help out your Associates.  It's kind of the same theory as the Linkedin Network

(You can also go back and change or update comments as you get to know your Associates better).

You are probably wondering who had the most associates and comments?  That might be another post later :)  I wanted to make it easy for you to

   ...me!   (Big Smile)  :-)  and if you do, then don't forget to    (Bigger Smile) :->)


All Content Copyright Protected © 2007 - The Escrow Guy


                    

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Post is included in group: Active Rain Newbies
Post is included in group: Blogging Etiquette 101
Post is included in group: HELP/FAQ (Read 'Purpose Statement' Carefully!)
Post is included in group: Real Estate Technology
Post is included in group: RealtorsĀ®

119 Comments on Adding Associates...The True Power of Comments

JUN
06
2007
257,310 Points 26 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Imagine my surprise when I added an associate who turned out to be another broker's client left a comment about how I helped them finally get the vacation home they had been trying for - I really did as I was covering for their agent while she was out of town - but it blew me away his kindness - if you need an IDX guy check him out on my associates his name is Chad and he and his wife are wonderful people
2:34am • #1
1 Featured Post
OK Brad, you were already there, but now you have a note.  :) 
4:02am • #2
223,763 Points 41 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Brad, this is an excellent reminder.  When I first started, I put comments on all my associates, but I need to go back and update.  When someone accepts your invitation to the Rain they are automatically assigned associate status but without comments.  You've given me yet another project.  =)  This post has been duly rated!
4:12am • #3
8 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Great suggestion.  I admit I'm guilty of just adding people and not putting in an additional comment or tidbit....
4:20am • #4
134,240 Points 8 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Brad,

Thanks for posting about this. I now have another task on my A/R laundry list. LOL! Thank you :)

5:46am • #5
180,840 Points 9 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Brad,  I have never made a commentary when adding associates but will have to think about it.  Noticed one downside while reviewing the comments that stood out in your mind.  I can agree Colleen is Awesome but she has moved and may not be working the Marco Island area anymore.
6:18am • #6
224,750 Points 2 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Good things come to those who are kind---I firmly believe this mantra and try to apply it to my own life.  Thanks for a wonderful and inspiring post.
6:38am • #7
316,775 Points 45 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Brad - hmmmm, I never thought about this before.  And I don't think I've ever seen anyone write anything about this.  I had noticed that some people had comments beside their associates, some but not all.  I have not done that at all on any of mine, didn't know what the benefit to doing that would be.  Now I know of at least one, thanks to your post.  As Dan mentioned above, if you add comments to everyone on your associate list, you do need to make sure they're kept current.

Thanks for this informative post!
Ann

6:49am • #9
278,163 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog
I have a select few - well may more  than a few - associates. Your post really does make some great points. I need to do some work.... Thanks
6:54am • #10
221,654 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Thanks for the reminder.  I didn't even know you could do this until I went searching, thanks to your post.  I went in and made comments next to everyone that I have added.
7:23am • #11
273,126 Points 3 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Brad, this is a wonderful idea.  I had noticed that many of my associates had left blank comments, too.
7:25am • #12
14 Featured Posts
Brad- I never even knew what to write, so I always left them blank.  I will fix them now though... and I have to go check out what people are saying about me.  Oh, yeah... I'll click those two buttons you suggested too.
7:35am • #13
551,844 Points 47 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Brad, very nice post.   This brings to light how we can impact each others business with very little effort.  I just added you as an associate because of this post.
7:51am • #14
2 Featured Posts

Brad,

Been lagging on this one. Thanks for the kick in the pants on this one... I will add, I will comment, I will sort & group.  

7:53am • #15
342,085 Points 94 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Brad -- Great post!   Thanks for the mention!      You are a great example of Paying it Forward!
7:56am • #16
187,820 Points 1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

Brad - thanks.  I needed to know this.  I love reading posts that hit a point of something I was thinking about or wondering how it works.  I added you as an associate and I subscribed.  Knowledge is powerful and your posts are full of information.  I am in the process of going back and reading all your blogs.  They have great pictures and are eye catching. 

I put under your comments of why I chose you as an associate is that I was impressed by your animated pictures (that was my first impression), now I will add comment about your power packed blogs.         Thanks again!

7:58am • #17
4 Featured Posts

Brad, what a spendid idea.

As you said, AR page is a critical marketing tool. A comment from another associate could be the deciding factor when someone is looking for a quality realtor

7:58am • #18
226,895 Points 29 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Brad,

Thanks for this helpful post. Have added you as an associate, subscribed to your blog, and made a comment.

Much appreciated,

Gary

8:17am • #19
597,156 Points 244 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
OK I admit I need to be more diligent in this area. I haven't even looked at my associates list in a long time. Thanks for the reminder:) 
8:19am • #20
144,401 Points 89 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Brad, I love your call to action at the end. Okay, you got me! I can't resist your blogs or the fact we have such a great contributor to the community right here in NorCal.

Great info.

8:48am • #21
Brad, thanks for the suggestion. As a relative newcomer to AR, I've found that there is a lot to learn about using it, navigating it, and just plain enjoying it.  I'm going to look ata my associates list right now.
8:52am • #22
6 Featured Posts

Brad, I had written a post awhile back asking for an explanation and purpose of adding associates as I have been added by some, but never understood why.  Thanks for shedding light and bringing purpose to "associates."  I will go check mine out now and make the necessary additions.

Reece

Simplicity Home Design

9:11am • #23
134,795 Points 15 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Brad - This is a great idea.  I love when someone leaves a comment in my associates thing.  I am going to follow your lead.  
9:31am • #24
1 Featured Post
Now I know.  I was wondering what the purpose of adding associates was all about.  I did notice that some people comment about others and most don't.  I will make an effort from now on.  Thanks for the info.
9:43am • #25
659,282 Points 145 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

Great idea, Brad. I will be the first to admit I have NOT done this at all. I like adding associates, and being added, but have been remiss in making comments. Good suggestion, now to take the time to do so.

I particularly like having a list of other agents around the country that I would want to refer to if I could. Developing the associates list has been very helpful and I have used it several times already.

Jeff

9:45am • #26
105,545 Points 10 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Brad, what a nice and thoughful post!  I'll start reviewing my associates and notes beginning with you!  :-)
9:57am • #27
3 Featured Posts
Nice post Jeff - You never know what can come from adding yourself as an associate. I have received many emails after I added myself as an associate. Sometimes they are great information and sometimes they are just trying to sell me something. But you never know - these connections can do something down the road that we would never expect.
9:59am • #28
288,753 Points 16 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Thanks Brad.......great idea. I was wondering what do do with that area. I've already subscribed to you but don't think I've added you as an associate. Great benefit of belonging to AR......networking with other real estate professionals!
10:05am • #29
3 Featured Posts
Brad, Thanks for the prompting. Must take time to do that!
10:07am • #30
292,376 Points 100 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Brad, this was a great post.  I think many of us have wondered about how to really utilize this feature on Active Rain.  This post added a lot of good insight & I'll be reviewing & adding to my list to reflect some of your suggestions.  Thanks.
10:20am • #31
288,753 Points 16 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Brad: I went into the associate section but cannot figure out how to add comments. When I click on the names, it takes me directly to the associate profile page. Has anyone figured out how to do that other than removing the associate and starting over?
10:22am • #32
Teri, I had the same problem til I noticed the little pencil icon.  Click on that and you can add the comments.
10:43am • #33
354,800 Points 9 Featured Posts Outside Blog
I did not know that we could add comments on our associates.  I really should look around more.  Thanks!
10:53am • #34
200,851 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Brad...thanks for the suggestion!  I am always checking out others blogs but NEVER thought about reading over their comments and their associates.  What a GREAT idea!  Thanks!
10:57am • #35
176,066 Points 2 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Good advice, I for one will take it and make a few    comments on the ones I haven't..................Thanks
11:08am • #36
1 Featured Post

Brad,

As usual a great post!  I will have to go through my associates and organize them also!  Thanks for the tips!

12:26pm • #38
589,468 Points 59 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router

thanks for the mention.  I went back in an added comments on a few more of my associates today and will try to add more comments.

I had my associates neatly sorted and catgorized by where I knew them from but dumped them into a big nondescript lump when an Active Rainer (?) started using the associates categories for spamming / mischief.

12:37pm • #39
136,105 Points 17 Featured Posts Outside Blog
I've haven't paid to much attention to the associates list as it has turned into a buddy list, like on MySpace, to me.
12:37pm • #40
407,405 Points 74 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Brad,

So you added me as an associate. ...now what? LOL!

12:57pm • #41
477,581 Points 151 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Brad...  first off, what a great reminder, something that I got away from in the last 4 months. 2nd...  wow, thanks for that very polite endorsement.   Overall, this is a great idea.

                                                                                                             jeff belonger

1:12pm • #42
255,770 Points 7 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
I appreciate the reminder to add a comment when I associate.  It makes my decision more personal to the other party.  
1:43pm • #44
533,085 Points 45 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Great point, Brad. I'll have to add this to my TO Do list.

I've noticed that you're now able to drag and drop an associate's position - however, it seems to be effective only for a single screen - then you have to find your way back and do another screen - a long process. Is there a shortcut I'm missing to take someone from near the bottom to near the top?

 

2:13pm • #45
584,923 Points 111 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Juat when I think I'm all caught up...you're giving me more homework!  Hey...this is so true...and I really have to get cracking and sorting my associates out by state etc....thanks for giving us tips to organize and more detailed remarks!
2:56pm • #46
7 Featured Posts Outside Blog
This is an excellent post. I agree those comments mean a lot. I think this is such an important topic that I've added a link to this blog from the Welcome Active Rain Newbies Post
3:29pm • #47
13 Featured Posts
I have been negligent in this whole associates thing.  I tend to just get on and bounce around the blogs.  Funny how I end up at some of the same blogs over and over that way.  Also funny how I discover new talent that way. 
3:34pm • #48
236,227 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Brad,

Haven't really thought about the associate side that much, but now that you opened my eyes, I'll have to go deeper into it. It's true that your comments are also read by many others, so stay on topic and be professional.

4:29pm • #49
Thank you for your suggestions.  Although I had not realized just how important those associates comments could be until I read this, I will certainly go back and add pertinent comments to each one.
5:49pm • #50
Great Suggestions!
9:01pm • #51
17 Featured Posts
Hi Brad~ great point! It is nice to see those little comments, and to give them as well.
9:18pm • #52
121,298 Points 6 Featured Posts Outside Blog
You know, I saw that comment section but was't sure what it was for. I didn't realize that you can leave people comments. When I looked at my associates, I saw they left me comments. I have being leaving comments ever since.
10:17pm • #53
182,628 Points 11 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Let me guess....you liked my picture cause I looked professional and nice! Awww
10:32pm • #54
5 Featured Posts
Brad, great post.  I didn't understand about the comments section until you explained it.  Thanks!
11:57pm • #55
JUN
07
2007
394,159 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Thanks for the suggestion. This is a good marketing tool as well as mentioned.
6:49am • #56
Thanks for the reminder Brad.  You are so right about what just a few words can mean to someone.  I'll do my best to get it together.  :-)
12:03pm • #57
JUN
11
2007
297,881 Points 15 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
Brad, Great post and great advice that will benefit all who follow.  Thanks for pointing what should have been obvious to all of us.  I have work to do.
7:15am • #58
297,881 Points 15 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog
I'm back --forgot to say hope the fishing is good.
4:50pm • #59
JUN
12
2007
Brad, another great post! LOL! I just realized this not too long ago and have been doing so, slowly but surely. LOL! not sure if I've gotten to you yet my friend. LOL! Hmm...what to say about brad? ;)
12:12am • #60
1 Featured Post

I just read another post of yours and thought to myself, "I need to add him as an Associate" and then I came across this blog!  Guess it was meant to be!

1:32am • #61
JUN
18
2007
165,545 Points 2 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Interesting post. I'm a newbie so still trying to figure things out. Associates was an area that I wasn't too sure about. Thanks for your post. You've inspired me.
4:32am • #62
JUN
19
2007
123,012 Points Outside Blog Hit Router
Thanks for the tip, I didn't really think of the comments area like that but you bring up a great point.  I will go review my associates area and for those I have added will make sure I put in a comment.
6:14am • #63
187,820 Points 1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router
Is the fishing over yet and what did you catch and when is the fish fry?
3:19pm • #64
JUN
20
2007

Fresh Rainbow Trout ... Fish Fry at 7:00pm!   :-)

9:47am • #65
Yummmmm!!!   :-)
11:04pm • #67
JUL
06
2007
400,548 Points Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Howdy Brad

Congrats and thank you for a very helpful post.

I will go back and make comments for my associates.

5:16pm • #68
Dale - adding comments to your associates is the best way to compliment them and help build or establish a trust with their readers.  It's really your reference and referral list!  Only one sentence, but probably the most powerful thing on the rain... Thanks!!  :-)
11:33pm • #69
JUL
07
2007
187,820 Points 1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router
Brad, are you coming to my celebration for my milestone? Its today 7-7-07 please check out my blog.  Thanks.
4:25am • #70
I will definately be over to check it out!!  :-)  Didn't realize it was 7-7-07 today!  That's my lucky number...7!
4:50am • #71
JUL
13
2007
549,891 Points 95 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog Hit Router
Brad, how did I miss this, when I subscribe to your blog ? Must have fallen through the cracks somehow. Because of John's post, here I am, Excellent advice, wish I understood this better at the beginning. I have a lot of catching up to do.
5:13am • #72

Hi Missy - what's more fun, is now you'll go around reading what others say about those they've added as associates.  You will really start to see the power of that list and the comments on it!  I actually use it as a reference when I meet with new or potential clients.  I even went so far as to put links to it on my profile page.  Been getting added alot more with some really nice comments!  From You Too!  :-)

5:18am • #73
138,659 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog
Thanks Brad.  I was directed over here by John Occhis post that he made today.  I am following his instructions to see what comes of it.  Now I see why he pointed me to your post.  Great information and I will be adding you as an associate soon along with comments.  Aloha Brad.
11:09am • #74
David & Tonya, Mahalo Nui Loa!  I'll do the same for you.  Especially since you're in my "Home away from Home"!  :-)  Aloha Oi....And to John Occhi, thanks for the "Link Love" my friend! 
11:23am • #75
JUL
17
2007
1 Featured Post

Hi Brad,

Thanks for the blog. Being somewhat new and not really knowing exactly everything that is suppose to be done on this site I am grateful you have taken the time to explain some pointers and what I should be doing.  Thanks again.

11:37pm • #76
JUL
18
2007
Penny - there are so many helpful members you will meet here on AR. Their time, knowledge, support and information is so powerful and valuable. This is like no other place or network you will ever find or experience.  Active Rain WILL BENEFIT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS! I have seen it, and guarantee that if you are active in the rain, manna will flow from heaven!!!
10:57am • #77
JUL
24
2007
Thank you very much for sharing, I need to go into my Associates and add some comments...thanks for the tip.
1:10am • #78
Just added you Shane, I knew I'd find you here! LOL! You comment mine and I'll comment yours!!  :-)
1:34am • #79
JUL
27
2007
1 Featured Post
Why do I want to add associates?  What is the use of this feaure?
7:28pm • #80
JUL
30
2007
Tim - I think you're kidding right? LOL~  I'm sure you read this post....
1:50am • #81
AUG
07
2007
1 Featured Post

Hey Brad! Great post and good ideas. I am a newbie here at AR, so my list... well I have 1 associate but I think I will add you and have 2 now! :) Like your blogs and will be sure to add a little note about all of my associates in the future.

12:18am • #82
Thanks Melissa - the associates page is a very valuable tool, many new members do not see or understand it's true value, I'm glad you do.  Thanks for adding me as your associate!!
9:41am • #83
Great job! thanks
3:22pm • #84
Anytime Jody!! Thanks!!
6:28pm • #85
JAN
19
2008
Outside Blog

Can you believe the post above!

Anyway Brad, just wanted to say thank you for this post, I feel the same way you do!

I am very interested in getting to know a few of the technologies you use and impressed with the way you are marketing them.  I love new technology and am dedicated to staying on top of things for my clients.  Looks like I have some work to do, because you are ahead of me in this area, I love to learn and have added you to my Technology Buff group...which was just made because of meeting you.

 

1:38pm • #86
Outside Blog

WOW Brad!

I just clicked on "Preview" under the subscribe area on the right side here and found other posts written by you.  I just have to say...I am not looking for any other blogs to read or learn until I Learn everything I can from your Blog on 2007 in review!

Thanks and I look forward to commenting on your other blogs, as I get the chance to read and learn.

 

1:51pm • #87
JAN
20
2008
I experienced the same thing and must say I was pleasantly surprised.  As a rule of thumb I like to leave a comment.
8:39am • #88

Moriah - I can't believe the comment above yours. 20% of 41,000,000 would be a nice chunk of change! LOL!  If they had that much money, don't you think they'd take the time to join Active Rain for FREE to give away their money? hahaha...what a joke!! 

Glad you are enjoying my blog posts, please feel free to make yourself at home and enjoy your time while you're here.  You're alway welcomed!!  :-)  

11:36pm • #89
Latonia - a comment is all that can be expected, but to leave it blank is acceptable, but only if you come back within a reasonable amount of time to leave a comment!  :-)  Guess I better check to see if you added me! LOL@!~`
11:39pm • #90
FEB
13
2008

Thanks, Brad.

I didn't know what the deal was with the associates part of AR. I was reluctant to click "add as associate". My thought was- this person doesn't know me, why would they want me to add them as an associate. This blog seems to say that if I enjoy a member's blog, it is a complement to add them to my associates. You are such a help.

11:26am • #91
Amy - By George, I think you've got it! LOL!~  Associates play a very powerful role here on AR.  Many pass right by the opportunities that exists with this powerful tool right at their fingertips. Glad you found this post, thanks for commenting, and thanks for adding me as an associate!  :-)
3:30pm • #92
FEB
27
2008
Outside Blog

Thank you for a wonderful post. I am kind of new to AR and about a month ago I had an agent add me as one of his associates after I posted a comment on his blog. I had no idea how to "pay it forward"

Thank you,

     

12:28pm • #93
FEB
28
2008
Yoana - this is one of the most powerful tools on AR!  Since this post, I now have 400 associates on AR, many of them have commented and many have not.  It's nice for others to see what your associates have to say about you. It's like a referral or reference database that really does build credibility t visitors and readers.  You can always pay it forward by leaving nice comments for those you add.  You cal also go back and update or change those comments anytime. :-)
8:27am • #94
APR
10
2008

thank you Brad for welcoming me to Active Rain network and community and helping me get started. Ive only been here for a little more than a month but I find myself spending more time here, enjoying the networking, posting and commenting.

 

Cape Cod Realtor sdw1

8:19pm • #95
APR
11
2008
Stephen - I'm happy to see you are enjoying your time here on AR.  I hope even more that you'll discover the value in the relationships you'll develop, and the growth of your business from your efforts here!  There's no place like ActiveRain, I guaranty it!  If you ever need any assistance, don't hesitate to call.  :-)
10:11am • #96
APR
14
2008
111,474 Points 15 Featured Posts Outside Blog
Ok Brad I have some work to do now.  In my free time in between selling real estate I'll go back and add some comments.
7:05pm • #97
APR
15
2008
Nannette - Don't make it homework, look at it like your referral or reference page, what you say about others and what they say about you has a way of silently building credibility to those who view your associates.  It takes a bit of time, but it's time well spent in my opinion!  Thanks for commenting. :-)
1:30am • #98
MAY
18
2008

I just wanted to say thanks

Great post,

I always learn something new.

5:07pm • #99

Hi Brad!  Glad to see this post come back up! 

The first thing I noticed about you, besided your great posts, was the comment you made about me and my cats.  Great post and very, definitely worth making comments about those you add!

Thanks!  JENNIFER 

7:51pm • #100
MAY
19
2008

Marina - no problem, there is so much to learn here, I think AR is the greatest resource on the planet for those in our industry that want to grow their business and relationships.  Unparalleled!!

9:31am • #101

Hey Jennifer - Under most circumstances, I hate to see anything come back up, but with a blog post, I guess it's ok! lol~  I really do like that photo of you with your kitty on your profile, it's really cute.  Making comments when adding associates is not a mandatory thing on AR, but it sure makes a difference to those who want to know why you added them.  It adds so much credibility to that member, and it also works like an unsolicited list of testimonials.  Very powerful and useful tool on AR. Simply put, Brilliant!  :-)

9:41am • #102
JUL
04
2008
Localism Sponsor

Brad---As a newbie I really appreciate all the time you have taken to add helpful information.  I tried to click on your link in this post to add you as an associate and it is not working----says there is no BAndersohn.  I will get you added.  Thanks!

2:09pm • #103

Pat - of all the posts for it NOT to work!!  haha. I went ahead and fixed it, thanks.  I changed my profile from bandersohn to ActiveBrad and forgot to check all my links.  Looks like I better spend the day going through posts and making some updates.  Glad you pointed this out to me.  Thanks again.  :-)

3:01pm • #104
AUG
13
2008

Hi

I want to thank God for his favour.My name is Solomon C.Great a missionary from nigeria to west African countries.I have some hecters of land for Agriculture to assist my people for Job creation.So if u can assist Me financially i will be greatful.

Solomon C.Great
5:43am • #105

Solomon - you're in the wrong spot to be looking for financial assistance.  I wish I could help you. 

As I face the daily challenges of life here in the states, I too need to provide land and home with food for my people.  I work on multiple projects, run an array of websites and blogs, and sell software, music and photos.  Every penny I make from these efforts is already going toward feeding many starving children.....

 

....my own!  :-)  Thanks.

9:20am • #106
AUG
15
2008

You know Brad,

 I always wondered why people never filled in a comment after adding an associate. After all you took the time to add the person, oh well. Maybe they were too busy, they don't realize there is spot to add a comment or hopefully it's not because they don't care.

Thanks for the posting. This subject must be striking a chord because this post is still alive at over a year old!

2:04pm • #107
AUG
16
2008

Cynthia - I think it's a bit of both.  Most don't really know what to expect or what's going to happen when they click on "Add Associate" the first time.  Others see the space and know what to do but feel at a loss since they really don't know much about the person and may not want to blindly endorse them.  Over time, I think we should all revisit our associates and add new comments as the relationships grow deeper and richer, then, so should our comments, views, and reflections of them.  :-)

9:40am • #108
AUG
19
2008
209,894 Points 12 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

You hit on some very good points.  I think sincerity is the key.  When we add people as associates it's because we truly feel that person is worthy to be mentioned in our list of referrals.  There's no doubt some people probably just add others because of their picture and that's usually the same group of people who have nothing to say comment wise in the description box.  Hopefully others will revisit their past list of associates and add that info.

Thanks for yet another informative post.  (btw: did you get our 2 video submissions)

7:27am • #109
AUG
20
2008

The best potential referral page on AR IMHO.  :-)

2:44pm • #110
AUG
24
2008
1 Featured Post

Thanks for more insights. I'm still experiencing information overload but am starting to get more comfortable with AR.

9:57am • #111
4 Featured Posts Outside Blog Hit Router

I am glad I ran across this post - I appreciate it when others write nice comments about me and it's not an automatic thing I do - shame on me - I have met some great people on AR and it is such a simple way to acknowledge them - and important I can see.  This is on my list to do soon!

1:25pm • #112
AUG
26
2008

Colleen - eat this elephant just one bite at a time. It's a bit much in the beginning, but you'll get the hang of it in no time at all.  Like ABC's, once you know them, you'll never forget. 

1:21am • #113

Cathy - it takes a bit of time, but it's worth investing into other members here.  Those comments mean a lot to the person being added as an associate.  When they get notified that they've been added, they anxiously go to see who and what was said.  It's a bit of a let down when there's no comment and no apparent reason they added you.  I try to comment on every single associate I add. 

1:25am • #114
JUL
05

Brad, Great post. I am realatively new to AR, and have not added associate, as I was not aware that I should or could.  I am learning more, here everyday, with all you superb realtors.  I will check this out. thx much!

9:30am • #115

Ginger - welcome to a great and powerful network and community.  You will find so much value here for the taking.  Let me know if there is anything I can do to help make your time here beneficial and profitable. :-)

11:11am • #116
JUL
15

Adding associates is one thing, but to leave a comment that the world can see is genius! What a great way to help members create and build credibility and at the same time, build relationships by providing a third party endorsement.  Is there anything AR didn't think of to make this network obviously the greatest site on earth? Seriously???  Thank you, I'm off to add associates and comment now.....

Johanna
11:35pm • #117
NOV
04
1 Featured Post Localism Sponsor Hit Router

Brad, thanks for the link to this post when you commented on my post

ActiveRain Associate vs Subscribe to Blog

This makes it clearer - but it also makes me wonder how I could utilize it better and how it could become more utilized in ActiveRain generally.

Your post is dated 2007 and nowadays not much is ever mentioned about it. You read about subscribers all the time in comments and posts but not much about a post on an Associate. It seems a waste of a valuable tool.

My brain is wrapping around this. I'll let you know what ideas come up around this as they percolate.

 

2:37am • #118

I agree Kathryn - this is a very powerful and very beneficial tool on AR.  Probably the reason you don't see or hear more is that there are sooooo many great tools and systems in place here that are powerful and valuable to members.  Outside Blogs, Hit Router, IDX, etc. the list goes on and on. 

What I ended up doing was putting a link to those who added me as an "associate" on my website and titled the link "References!"

It has worked out nicely. :-))

7:48am • #119

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Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager

Fairfield, CA

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