That's embracing a new way of thinking!  I often pretend I am a reporter when I am checking out stuff for Localism, but I never thought of actually saying I am a writer, I love it!

I have not said that I am a writer. Especially when I am taking picutures:-). I explain that I am a REALTOR that publishes to the Internet in an attempt to give "slice of life", a REal feeling of what its like to live here. Then I ask if I may have permission to include them in a photo. I hand them my card which also includes timeless photos of our area and ask if they would like for me to email them the photos. Then, to my amusement, I see a look of comprehension-like putting 2 and 2 together, several of my new Pier Pals then say, Oh, you're a journalist, and my other favorite--Ohhh, you're an artist. Don't ya love people?

I haven't put business on the books this way, but I have a good time, I know my community better, and the people I meet seem to enjoy the encounter. Then, of course the result is Localism photos or blogs which do help to establish us as neighborhood experts, and minimally as REALTORS that care about what's going on in the community. 

I think I'll have to try it.  Back when I was a photographer, I was at a party talking to a friend about shooting people in a local park.  I had a ditz ask me what I did...  seriously?  

I told her I was a contract killer... 

To take it a step further, you could register a domain name (even if you just "point it" to your AR blog) to show them where you are published. Put the domain name on a card to hand out. They will certainly check out your blog and might even like it enough to tell others about the famous writer they just met! :-)

Interesting! Hmmm...I like your approach. You are indeed a writer. (I am actually a journalist by training so for me, this would not be a stretch either.)

That was great Lizette!  You are coming along just fine...and you know how to add a little bit of you in it to make it that much more interesting. Woohoo!

Lizette, I LOVE that and it's TRUE :)  Gee, years ago I was asked to write for a local paper and I laughed....I'm no WRITER.  Darn!  But then I may not have found my way here.  I'm going to try it, though, it certainly sounds like fun!  Happy holidays to you and Chanel!  I hope you both get everything you want.

Lizette-I love it!  You are a writer indeed.  Keep them coming.  You are wearing many hats my friend and the approach is priceless. 

I never thought if it that way...that is a great conversation starter and approach. Thanks!

Deborah - That's really fun to do it that way. I took my girlfriend with me to interview townsfolk in Midway. We called ourselves the "Blonde Roving Reporters".

Suzi - Yeah...isn't it fun to confuse them? I finally got tired of all the explaining. Realtor/Artist/Designer/Writer/Chanel's mommie/Blah. It was turning into a mess!!!!

Lane - Contract killer is a great one. I will have to remember that.

Nick - Hmmm...that's an excellent idea! Thanks!

Darleen - See how easy it is for you? You are already there!

Sally- I plan to keep stirring the pot and mixing it all up till it is perfect!

Carole - We both have come a long way in a short time. It just gets better and better! Have a wonderful holiday!

Julie - The hats keep on coming! I think we always reinvent ourselves. It's like haircolor!

Gary - It was really eyeopening to see how interested they became when I told them I was a writer.   

Very interesting concept. never would have thought to approach  it that way.

Lizette--Introducing yourself as a writer/blogger stopped the conversation from heading the direction of gloom and doom. Many people have said to me, Oh we don't have to ask how your business is going...we hear real estate is bad on the news. With blogging as a topic, you can steer the conversation anyway you want! BTW...My response is, My real estate business is great thanks to my new blog!

Lizette, I love it...the Blond Roving Reporters!   :  )

Lizette, too funny! I wonder what has them glazing over when we say "Realtor"...that there are so many of us out there? Or so many B-A-D ones?

-Colleen

Lizette, among many things I do, I just tell people I wear many hats. One guy called me a hybrid. I like to refer to myself as one with multiple interests. You are who you say you are to others.

Hum, maybe I should take on that title for a while since I am trying to make a transition from a L.O. to a .....oops cannot let that one out yet.  But will let you know when I can.  LOL....

Love your blog post here, and I see nothing wrong with how your presenting yourself in your profession.  Nothing at all wrong.  Wishing you the best 2008 also, take care.

There are some wonderful writers on Active Rain--and I think you can claim the title with no apology!

Sharon - It's fun to try on a new hat every now and then. I have worn many different ones. Change is good(for me).

Teri -That's very true. I was introduced by a friend at the same party as a Realtor. the first thing out of their mouth was how bad things were. Yuck! I'd rather say I was a writer!

Deborah - that was really a fun day as reporters. WE will have to do it again.

Colleen - I think both answers are right.

Gary- Hmmm...hybrid is a bit strange...but whatever! lol

Bob - I can't wait to see who you will be next! Change is good! 2008 is going to be your best year!

Norma - Wow! Thanks for the compliment!  I really appreciate it. Hope you have a wonderful 2008!

There is no doubt you can do anything you decide on.   You definitely have the knack for writing.   I will be in line at the first book signing!     08 will be great!

From what I've seen, you're not only a writer, but an artist who just happens to make a living selling real estate.

 Good for you!

Connie - You sweet thang! I'd have you along on the tour! We'd have a great time hanging out together!

Erby, Now EVERYONE will know my creative secret! Shhhhhh! You have turned into quite a famous writer too!

Lizette this was very interesting.  It's amazing how the choice of words can totally change the conversation.