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Am I Too Young To Use My Picture?

By
Real Estate Agent with Coldwell Banker Burnet

I finally decided to put my picture on active rain, I must say I was very hesitant to do so.  See I am only 23 and I've heard that when your young in real estate it's probable best not to use a photo of yourself right away.  

I haven't had a professional one taken yet, beacause I can't decided if I really want to use one on my business card and marketing materials.  I know it's a great way to market yourself, but I've really been just using my name Tyghre (tiger) because I think thats a better rout to start on.  

But honestly, I really can't make up my mind, so many people tell me that I should use a picture and others say to just use my name. It's kind of been the big debate with some of my co-workers.  I guess my biggest fear is that someone will look at my picture and think I'm too young to work with...I have a degree, I was a manager for 2 years, a public relations director, please ignore the picture and look at what I've done...to bad I can't put that in small writting.

Got any thoughts of what I should do?

Crystal Freeman
Willow Creek Creative - Eugene, OR
I think somehow putting it in black and white makes you look a little older than 23.  You're cute!  Enjoy it!
Oct 24, 2007 12:59 PM
Stacy Magid
Century 21 New Millennium - Woodbridge, VA
Definitely use your picture.  People like to tie a name with a face and yours looks great.  You may want to have some professional shots done for your marketing materials.
Oct 25, 2007 12:43 AM
Patty Keller
AnotherME, LLC - Atlanta, GA
AnotherMe - 770-414-9393 - RE Virtual Assistant

Tyghre - great photo, great name!  You look fun, friendly and credible.  There are lots of "young" people buying properties that might relate more to you versus an "older agent."  Everyone has to start somewhere.  Hmm...now I have to decide whether to post my photo on Active Rain or continue to use my company logo!

Patty Keller - AnotherME, LLC

Oct 25, 2007 01:25 AM
Tyghre Collentine
Coldwell Banker Burnet - Minneapolis, MN
I seem to be getting a good response with my photo, so I would suggest switching it up.  I just took a photo I had of myself at home, nothing fancy about it.  Good Luck!
Oct 25, 2007 09:39 AM
Daniel Sundberg
Crystal Springs Real Estate - Kentwood, MI

Use your photo. People recognize you by your picture when scrolling thru the blogs.  

Oct 26, 2007 11:57 AM
Tyghre Collentine
Coldwell Banker Burnet - Minneapolis, MN
I think your onto somthing, either my blogs have gotten better, or people are actually putting a face to the name and checking out my posts.  It feels nice to be heard!
Oct 26, 2007 03:16 PM
Josh Schoenly
Midstate Property Group, LLC - Harrisburg, PA
I think it is no matter the age for peopel to be able to put a face with a name, expecially in cyberspace.  It only helps build your credibility and likability.  Just my two cents.
Oct 26, 2007 03:21 PM
Dale Campbell
Virginia Real Estate - Mechanicsville, VA
Believe me... your picture wil not scare away any business, and will attract quite a bit of business without any problems!!!!  In fact, you may need a stick to run off all the business!
Oct 29, 2007 12:11 AM
Eric Kodner
Madeline Island Realty - La Pointe, WI
CRS, Madeline Island Realty, LaPointe, WI 54850 -
Tyghre, be proud of your age!  There's nothing wrong with being 23 and in real estate.  I wish I had started in this business a few decades ago..
Oct 29, 2007 12:18 AM
Tyghre Collentine
Coldwell Banker Burnet - Minneapolis, MN
Thanks for everyones feedback...I am in the process of getting my business cards printed with my picture on it!  I must admit, I was a tough decision and I truly value everyones response.
Nov 07, 2007 03:20 PM
Anonymous
Matt Hust
Use your picture, you got a good smile.
Nov 09, 2007 09:00 AM
#30
Bill Somerset
Re/Max Realty Group - Dover, NH
ABR, e-PRO - Realtor - NH Real Estate Agent

Tyghre,  I have often struggled with the same thing.  I have recently turned 30, but still look to be younger.  I have used my picture on all of my cards, websites, and marketing material all along.  I always receive the same comment, "you look so young." 

As long as you know your business, and cary yourself well, you will succeed no matter your age or how young you look.

My sales have doubled every year I have been in the businees!

Nov 14, 2007 02:05 AM
Steve Hermann
Coldwell Banker Heritage REALTORS - Ponca City, OK
Just be yourself, your age has nothing to do with it. Your name has great marketing possibilities, & you are very attractive, too. What a great combination.  Let your knowledge and business experience guide you. 
Nov 14, 2007 03:41 AM
John Contabile
Coldwell Banker - Temecula, CA

The first thing I thought was "she looks very personable & friendly."

I never thought you looked too young until you asked the question here!

Also, I like the casual look of pictures.  Often, professional ones can make you look too stuffy.

Be yourself and go for it! 

Nov 15, 2007 02:18 AM
Scott Dovala
Ascent Home Loans - Santa Rosa, CA
Santa Rosa Mortgage and Home Loans

Tygher,

I think your photo is great. However, I might suggest on your activerain site losing the "Lifes To Short to Be Serious" motto. I or you may agree with that, but being 23, potential clients may think you are not that commited to getting the job done. The animation is ok, I would just change the motto. Just a thought.  

 

Nov 15, 2007 05:51 AM
The All Pro Team
EXIT Realty Leaders - Crystal River, FL
Tygher, I too was very young when I got into Real estate.  People would ask me about my age but when I listed my credentials, age was never an issue again.
Nov 15, 2007 06:00 AM
Dick & Sandy Beals
Wilmington Real Estate 4U Wilmington, NC - Wilmington, NC

Wow, I wish I looked like you and was your age!  That is exactly what I said to a 24 year old rookie who wanted to join our team (reminds me of you)  She was thinking the opposite...I wish I was older and came across like you.  I promised her she would make a six figure income if she joined us, followed our plan, AND , and this is the biggie....she went and had a professional head shot taken in a RED business power suit, She did!  She made 95K which was OK because she told me she cheated on the plan a little.  She is like a daughter to us, we love her, she became BIC of our new office, then she was discovered and somebody now is guaranteeing the real big bucks as a actress.  We enjoyed her employ for 5+ years, we miss her, and it is so bittersweet.......but WOW...and that is where this comment started

Dick Beals

Nov 15, 2007 08:26 AM
Tyghre Collentine
Coldwell Banker Burnet - Minneapolis, MN
Thanks...can I join your team and make six figures, ha!
Nov 17, 2007 11:00 AM
Gary Woltal
Keller Williams Realty - Flower Mound, TX
Assoc. Broker Realtor SFR Dallas Ft. Worth
REALTORS need their picture on their business card to assist with branding. Your smiling photo to me says you are a very helpful person. Go for it. Include the picture Tyghre.
Nov 20, 2007 03:35 AM
Don Stern
Realty Executives South Louisiana - Baton Rouge, LA
Greater Baton Rouge Real Estate
Geaux Tyghre!  Greetings from Baton Rouge!
Nov 20, 2007 07:49 AM