Social Networking

Ok, if you have been to a seminar, particiapted in a webinar, picked up any type of real estate magazine you've undoubtedly heard or read the phrase "social networking".  It has become second nature to some of us who twitter, facebook, activerain, linkedin, YouTube, namyz and many more.  However the time management element can be tricky.  It is hard not to let your curiosity wander as you peruse pictures, videos and more.  These tools can be as much an educational component as a networking opportunity.  My advice is to establish a schedule and purpose plan.  This can be as simple as a word or excel document that provides the type and description of the audience and the trend or content format you want to publish.  For example: 

•·         activerain = real estate professionals; post type blog

•·         YouTube = all audiences; post type video

•·         facebook = company page; post type conversation, video, link

Then you need to decide if you are going to duplicate your posting or your trend.  If you are discussing the tax credit and you have video content are you going to post the same video across all of your social links?  Your plan must include a schedule; daily posting, weekly, as needed, etc. and an allotment for the time you dedicate to working these sites.  It also allows you to communicate with and incubate those leads that are not quite ready.  It gives them the option to work at their pace to get to know you and the market.  I believe that this medium is definitely worth spending time on and I have closed business from the opportunity.