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Networking: Working Smarter not Harder

By
Real Estate Agent with Exit Realty Tri-County

I have always understood how networking is a good thing.  What I am just really starting to realize is how it is beginning to propel my business forward.  There are curtain things in life  I call "triggers".  When you meet someone for the first time it could be something they say, perhaps the way they are dressed, or the surroundings, but something tells you your going in the right direction.

Hard work like calling FSBOs, Expireds, and holding open houses are still a crucial part of business.  Networking makes these things become less necessary.  I have been enjoying the training series by Brian Buffini on how to build a successful referral base throught the power of networking.  Since I love to meet new people everything he says to do sounds more like having fun than working my tail off.

The catch however, is you have to be willing to give before you recieve.  You have to look first for what you can do to help the person with whom you are speaking.  Than you can ask "Oh, by the way do you have a Real Estate Profession that you currently refer business to?"

Find professionals who like to do business the way you do. If your not sure use their services. There is not a better way to know.  Keep your business local as much as possible.  Instead of doing all your buying online go to your local merchant often.  You never know who they may know.  Your next deal might be waiting for you at the coffee shop.

Jason Price
Mortgage Financial Group, Inc (NMLS 219650) - Tavares, FL
The Mortgage Rider

This is so true... as you saw last week at the networking event I invited you to.  We all got to know each other in a new fun way.  We were all working, but without all the work.  We got to discover how we can all help each other out.

As for you last comment, where we live this is very much true.  Most people here want to do business with the local business person and support the local small business.  Thanks for sharing.

Dec 04, 2006 02:18 PM
William Collins
ERA Queen City Realty - Scotch Plains, NJ
Property and Asset Management
Rebekah, I see those triggers every time I read a post. There is information with each encounter that can help me to propel my business to the next level. AR's informal networking has increased my awareness of ways to grow my business exponentially. I come away overwhelmed, yet inspired. 
Dec 04, 2006 02:43 PM
Jaclyn Erwin
Jackson Erwin Realty, Inc. - Charlotte, NC
ABR,SFR, REALTOR®/BROKER, Charlotte NC.

I agree with your comments 100%. Networking is essential in any business, especially real estate. I see so many real estate agents miss this point completely. Sad to say. For instance, how many of us have recommended ARain to other agents who, for some reason or another, choose not to at least explore the opportunities. This really blows me away. As real estate professionals, we all have a responsibility to stay abreast with the latest information. I am constantly searching for new, exciting opportunites and professionals to work with. When I meet someone, I make it a habit to ask for their business card and add it to my database. This way, I will have an organized way of staying in contact with them. Another note about networking...I make it a habit to only associate myself and by practice with positive-thinking individuals. Negativity is contagious and a big dream killer!

Dec 05, 2006 02:35 PM