When I decided to start my original blog back in January of 2006 I really had no idea what I was getting into.  I had no knowledge of social networking or SEO or, quite frankly, whether or not I would proceed past putting up the first post and pointing it to my website so that people could find me in one more place. 

Don't get me wrong.  I was hoping it would bring business.  And it has.  Two date I can name 13 transactions that have come from my two blogs.  Directly.  Without doubt. 

But without being sappy or emotional I have to say that I have gained immeasurable value from the relationships that I have garnered through blogging as anything else. 

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This last Sunday, Monday and Tuesday Keller Williams International was putting on a workshop for their agents called MegaCamp.  (That's a whole other blog.)  So I went down to Austin a day early because;

1. I had never been to Austin.
2. I love music and Austin's music reputation is there with Nashville, New York & LA.
3. College towns...I love college towns.
4. I wanted to meet Lani of r.e.revealed and B.R. of Realtor Genius. 

Lani and BR (named withheld to protect the innocent) are even better people in person than they are online.  They gave me a tour of their city.  And what a city.  (That's a whole other blog, too.)  They spent hours with me driving me around.  Sharing.  Asking questions.  Answering questions. And having a good time. 

Now, I have to tell you.  I knew Lani's work a lot better than BR's when I got to town.  I enjoy reading both.  But for whatever reason Lani's site is just like a cool glass of water on a hot day.  Just right.  So let me say right here that after having spent an afternoon with both...they are both great people with passion about blogging.  BR is an extraordinary thinker and his views of the real estate world and how it is perceived by the public are fantastic. 

This post, however, really isn't about Lani & BR.  It's about the fact that through social networking online I have a new friendship with two people I probably would never have otherwise known.  I've spoken on the phone with other bloggers.  Well known bloggers.  And enjoyed those conversations immensely.  But I have advice for you.

As you build your social network through active|rain make sure you take the time to learn about these people.  Read between the lines. And the next time you leave your home city be sure to arrange a cup of coffee, or a beer, or a tubular taco at the Hula Hut with people you know through the written word. 

It's okay to pick up the phone and call people, as well.  I have found that the same trait that makes the good bloggers blog is the same trait that will allow them to take a minute out of their day to say "hi".  To connect a name and writing with a voice.  To quite possibly build a new friendship.

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Writer's Note: 

I now have to get some Kleenex out.  This doesn't make me less of a man, does it?   :)