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So I joined my first networking group.......

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with Metro Life Homes RS-78439 / BRE #01708344

I joined my first networking group a few weeks ago.

The first 15 minutes of each week's meeting is just talking to each other while we have lunch.

There is only one member from each occupation allowed in each chapter.  Each week, everyone gives there one-minute "commercial", and also each week someone alternates to give their 10-minute presentation.

The 10-minute speaker for that week purchases a gift card of $20-$25, and they have a drawing for those members who wrote up referrals that week to pick a winner.

And of course there's alot of discussing, and question-and-answer periods through the rest of the meeting.

Networking endeavors like this have replaced my pursuit of internet related leads, and it was the BEST decision I ever made.

I highly recommend this for every agent.  It's a SOLID way of gaining REAL business, no matter what the vendors who are trying to sell you on internet related endeavors say.  It's all about them making money, not you.

I've already received my first referral.

Face to face social networking is always King......

Comments(6)

Margaret Woda
Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. - Crofton, MD
Maryland Real Estate & Military Relocation

Networking groups can be very effective, but don't give up on Internet leads. 

Apr 09, 2010 02:32 PM
Steve Shatsky
Dallas, TX

Hi Ralph... I agree with Margaret.  I have tried both and neither, by itself, is the ideal solution.  A well balanced and varied approach to marketing and networking is a smart formula. 

Apr 09, 2010 04:14 PM
Charles Stallions Real Estate Services
Charles Stallions Real Estate Services Inc - Gulf Breeze, FL
Buyers Agent 800-309-3414 Pace and Gulf Breeze,Fl.

I love networking and belong to several groups over the years, it is what you  make it.

Apr 09, 2010 04:28 PM
Carla Muss-Jacobs, RETIRED
RETIRED / State License is Inactive - Portland, OR

That's great that you joined.  Which one?  Or, maybe the question should be, how do I seek a good one out??

Apr 09, 2010 06:44 PM
Carra Riley & Declan Kenyon
Brokers Guild Cherry Creek Ltd - Westminster, CO
Helping people Transition at all ages!

Ralph...I agree that face to face networking on a consistent basis is a great way to get and give referrals - what goes around comes around.  Congratulations on your success!

cosmic cow

Apr 10, 2010 05:01 AM
Tim Maitski
Atlanta Communities Real Estate Brokerage - Atlanta, GA
Truth, Excellence and a Good Deal

It sounds like a BNI group.  I've been a member of one for about 4 years.  I get a few transactions from it every year.  I use it to diversify a little but my internet leads are my bread and butter.  I find it most useful as a way to polish my presentation skills.  The first time I did my 10 minute presentation I was so nervous and barely made it through it.  I'm fine one on one but put me in front of a group and I would freeze up.  Now, I enjoy getting up and speaking and I can't wait to give my presentations.

Apr 14, 2010 01:10 PM