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Talking to Strangers

A funny thing happened to me on my way home from the office yesterday. I stopped in Trader Joes to pick up a few things. I was walking down the frozen aisle looking at the desserts trying to talk myself out of grabbing one of those Tiramisu cakes that I just love. This older man (like 70ish) walks up to me and says, "Excuse me, you must be self employed". I looked at him, laughed and said, "How can you tell?" He says, "It's the way you walk with purpose, and you know people with 9-5 jobs, they kind of mosey around, us self employed people, we make every minute count". I nod my head in agreement while still checking out the Tiramisu from the corner of my eye.

But the guy has my attention. So I slide my hand in my coat pocket and start fishing around for one of my business cards, I figure maybe the guy wants to buy real estate from this very determined and purposeful Real Estate Broker. So I ask, "So, what do you do?" I figured this would help me determine if he was even in a position to buy or sell a house plus men love to talk about their work so I'd just listen for any type of clue that would help me make a connection. Well, what came out of his mouth shocked the Tiramisu right out of my thoughts. He said, "I have been doing taxes for more than 50 years and I also do retirement planning." I went to open my mouth about real estate but didn't get the first syllable out before he said, "I have this great new retirement product that many real estate agents find save them money on their taxes, blah, blah, blah."

OK, now I'm laughing to myself and thinking I finally met my match. One of the ways that I've built my data base over the years has been talking to strangers. No matter where I am or what I'm doing I always have business cards tucked away ready to grab at a moments notice. I have cards in my cell phone case, in my wallet, in a business card holder, in every pocket of all of my jackets and coats, in the ashtray of my car in the back pocket of my jeans and even in my sunglasses case.

So the guy is engaging, funny, genuine and basically just nice. I listen for a few seconds and he hands me his business card while asking for mine. Of course I reciprocate and we both laugh. I finally found out what it feels like to be on the receiving side of a "real estate pick up".

If you haven't tried building your data base by talking to strangers you're missing a great and fun opportunity. I've found that if I'm genuine, upbeat, a good listener and not pushy but intentional that I can meet people anywhere, anytime. Heck yesterday at the polls was a wonderful opportunity. I voted late (after the Trader Joes run) so I experienced long lines and no ballots for the Democrats. You want to talk about a hostile bunch! But that's another story entirely.

So the next time you're sitting at the car wash or in a long line at the grocery store, you might want to strike up a conversation with a stranger. You never know who you'll meet and you have nothing to lose since you're just standing there anyway. Real Estate is built on relationships, if you can connect with people, be yourself, be genuine, engaging and intentional you can succeed. Anyone can learn real estate technical knowledge; few agents can generate leads consistently and turn the leads in to life long clients.

I do have one word of caution regarding this method. If you have children this is a great method of lead generation until your kids hit their teens. At this point they will be mortified and run and hide when you talk to strangers. My 17 year old who has tolerated my talking to strangers for his entire life now just leaves the building when I start. I laugh and remind him that his car was purchased with money that I got from talking to strangers. He is not amused and rolls his eyes.

Posted by Tracey Thomas Calabasas, CA Real Estate on 02/06/2008 11:54 PM

Comments (115)

data base, tiramisu, calabasas grocery

115 Comments on Talking to Strangers

FEB

2008

LOL about the teenagers. I know exactly what you are talking about. Mine wont even help me with open house signs, he is afraid of being spotted helping his mom around town!!! :0)

Hey I call it (out and about) it's great and works very well. I can't tell you how many clients I have gotten over the years! Great way to work Lol Good luck

Tracey, me, too....I've intentionally struck up conversations with strangers for years. I even see stories about people in the paper that I think I'd like to know, and I send them a note and my card.

I can't tell you how many new friends this has generated and how much business, too, although I honestly do it more to meet people than I do to try to generate business.

Good post. Wonder how many AR-ers will take your advice?

Billycherry

Oh Mana, don't even get me started with the open house signs. It would be a deadly sin if one of his friends saw him on the side of the road with a sign.

Richard, me too! I love talking to strangers. Sometimes they're just funny and interesting and sometimes they actually turn in to a client, but I always have a good time. I find people so interesting.

I'll admit, this is a real challenge for me. It's actually helped with the market sloooowwwinng down. People want to talk and get my impression of "how bad is it?" Not bad all for me, thanks and that usually starts a great conversation. Not without personal angst though. Thanks for inspiring me to keep it up.

Hi Bill, I met a gal in the Mall many years ago and we became the best of friends. If I wouldn't have started chatting with her, I would have missed out on a long and very wonderful friendship.

Elena, I promise that the more you do this, the easier it will become, eventually it will just be natural.

Tracey - I also have made plenty of money by talking to strangers. My mom once told me that I could "start a conversation with a Stop sign". By the way, I mentioned you in a post I wrote yesterday about my six-month anniversary in the Rain. Your post about building your database "Tyler Durden" style was the very first post I EVER commented on here. Check it out if you have a chance.

Tracy, I enjoyed your blog and isn't it funny how I posted at the same time directly below yours a similar post Where Do You Work? ....anyway, sounds like you connect well with people and it's a great reminder of how many opportunities are out there for us without even having to look hard. I have older kids too and can relate about how they hate real estate talk, yet they don't mind when we have a good month and feel overly generous do they???

It is great to talk with those in line -- you never know who is looking to buy or sell. I even was talking to my doctors nurse -- and it turned out she was selling and needed a referral where she was moving. It is incredible.

This is something I find very difficult. Actually striking up conversations is easy; I'm a pretty outgoing, talkative person. What's hard for me is finding the right moment or circumstance to give the card without coming across 'cheesy', 'fake' or 'phony'. In fact, my husband and I were just talking about this subject earlier today... hmmm, this could be a sign. :-)

Thanks so much for sharing your story - it's an inspiration for me to try harder at this.

Jason, I just checked out your post. I loved that Tyler Durden post, I'm so glad you remembered it and your comment too! Your comments have evolved dramatically since those first few days. So have mine.

Carol - I just checked out your post. It's funny you work in the grocery store too!

Joan - It's interesting to talk to the folks in line. It's so much better than door knocking. When you do that you're interrupting them and they have to stop what they're doing and answer the door. If they're standing in line, they're much more receptive.

Tina - The sign is practice make it much easier. Only make the transition to business card when it's comfortable. The more you do it, the more comfortable you'll become.

i enjoyed your post, thanks, light and a good read

Justin - Glad that you enjoyed the read. Light is nice sometimes.

I talk to people in line, at the grocery, in fitting rooms, etc. Interestingly, it's generally me that initiates the contact. Can't say I've had an incident of being approached in a long, long time.

FEB

2008

Oh, such as true story...that most of us live thru every now and then...but it is vital to be out of the home or RE office...especially now that the Internet/email can take so much of the face to face out of it. Thanks!

Tracey- If you are unable to talk to strangers, you will starve in this business. I am a bit of an introvert. I learned very early in sales that a pay check is involved if you can learn to talk to strangers. Good post and good reminder.

Tracey, I have learned to strike up conversations with people everywhere I go! I am not good at doing this but I keep practicing and I am sure I will get better. If I want to eat, I will get better! My teenage boys are actually quite shocked that I do this now because I have never done this before. So, I think they are too shocked to be embarrassed.

Tracey- Congrats on a well deserved feature. I coach network marketers about the three foot rule, you are to talk to anyone who ever comes withing 3 feet of you. The part of this conversation with this man that I do not agree with is how he started out with a compliment about you but then went into his sales pitch before he built the know, like and trust. You on the other hand listened to him. The one listening is in control. You get an A he does not. This is a big no no in training networkers.

I was picking up friends at the airport. While waiting for them to get through customs, (Of course it took awhile) I was able to speak to a few people that were waiting to pick up their friends and loved ones too.

I handed out my business card, may not lead to anything but it was a great experience.

hehe, my kids are always mortified when they go out anywhere with me.

"Mom you'll talk to anyone!"

Tracey -- I once helped a stranger choose dinner while at Whole Foods and we are friends now! Its good practice and starts with a smile:)

Vickie - I talk to everyone too, that's why I was shocked when someone approached me. I honestly cannot remember the last time someone talked to me first like this.

Nikola - I think you bring up a huge and very important point. Those of us that are a little nerdy and bloggy tend to not be so social when we come out from behind the keyboard. Over the years I have forced myself to overcome the shy and look for opportunities. It is so much easier to stay here safe and sound behind my computer.

Mark - I can relate, I can be an introvert too but I make the conscious effort to go out there and talk to strangers.

Roberta - It definitely gets easier and then it becomes fun. My prediction is once the shock wears off your boys will be mortified and leave the building too.

Katerina - You are so right, the one listening is in control. I think if more people tried to build the relationship a little first it would be so much easier to get in to the natural exchange of information. It has to be genuine. I talk to many people that I don't give my card to also. Sometimes it's because there is no connection or because I just don't think I'd want to work with them. I know that sounds bad, but I want to work with people that I like and it's that old 80/20 rule. Some people just suck you dry and give back nothing, if I sense that, I just fade awaqy.

Jackie - I hand out my business card, but I also try to get theirs. I then follow up with a personal note the next day (if it's appropriate) and put them on an 8x8. That's a Keller Williams system for developing your have mets. It's a series of 8 touches. Then the person goes in my data base for regular contacts.

Aziz - You hit the nail right on the head. It starts with a smile and genuine interest and care. It can't be fake or sleazy. If people detect used car salesman they will run the other way!

I've never met a stranger. Anyone I talk to, I talk to as if I've known them forever. And yes, I have made cutomers/clients by chatting to my 'friends' everywhere I go.

Nancy, point well taken and I agree wtih you 100%. I stand correctred.

I love this! Happy Accidents I call it when you are enjoying life and "stumble" on a valuable new friend or client. In Hawaii, I find that if I am enjoying myself, I meet more people... I have more success meeting new folks while spending a day at the beach than I do at an open house!

Jamie Friedman, Hawaii Real Estate, www.AllHawaiiIslands.com

Every person you interact with is an opportunity. Sometimes the results are not immediate. The world is very very small.

Jamie - I agree, it's much easier to meet and connect with people in everyday life than at an open house where they are defensive already.

Kirk - No greater truism than this. The world is very small.

Yep, I talk to every single person that I see with in range, find out about them, see if there is any knowledge I can pass on or if there is anyone I know who can help them. I then collect their card and put them in my database, about 10,000 now. I must have an army of folks out there now feeding me information, leads, etc. I don't think I have ever attempted to sell anyone anything, that I have met by purposeful chance, once they meet me, they will remember and find me if they need something. Lance

Great post Tracey..... Some times when you are not out with a buyer or seller, the best place to find your next lead could be in the mall, grocery store, a resturant..... The list goes on and on. I alway ask the waitress in the resturant if they know anyone looking to buy or sell a home. Some days I get a lead.

Keep talking to strangers....... they may just be your next buyer or seller !

You're funny. Only if I can generate leads the way you do by talking to strangers. A lot of times when I walk up to strangers,before I can get the first word out,they either walk away or say "No Thank you" as soon as I say something. I found out about Traders Joe on a Ellen episode like a week or so ago. Great post.

Great post, I embarrass my kids alot, too, doing the same thing. My husband keeps my cards in his pocket and passes them out to everybody he meets. He wants me to give him referral fees. I tell him the check is in the mail!

Hi Tracey: What a cool story. You shared this encounter so well that I could almost hear your conversation with this fellow. It almost sounds like you're met your match.

This is a great example of how there is business everywhere. Everyone is a prospect. But... you can only do this if your attittude is such that you're brimming with self-confidence. And... what do you have to lose ? If it works, great ! If it doesn't, that's ok too... because you just had a great practice session that you cannot get any other way than just simply doing it. Thanks so much for sharing...

Very good story. I always seem to talk to strangers, but mostly people older than me. It seems that most young people are always in a hurry and look annoyed, so I avoid talking with them.

Great post! Being from the deep south (Mississippi) talking to strangers is an a-l-l d-a-y t-h-i-n-g, especially because folks tend to talk slower in Mississippi. LOL but that is okay because I listen slower. It nearly takes all day to have a conversation! I love to talk with strangers because I learn so much from people. It is a great way to spend the day!

Some people have the gift of gab. My kids ask me, how do you know everyone, mom. I don't, I just meet them. The grocery on Christmas Eve afternoon, is a great networking place.

Tracey - Thank goodness for that sweet tooth. LOL

Great post.

TRACEY - Great post. Congrats on the feature. It's funny that he recognized you as self-employed by the way that you shop. What a great sense of observation. Of course, he may have just gotten lucky in finding a former New Yorker. As you know, we tend to have two speeds, fast and faster. (LOL) This is actually really good advice for people to help build their database.

Tracey - The carwash is another great place to chat with strangers--they're waiting, you're waiting. I carry a couple extra American Lifestyle Magazines (personalized real estate magazine I send to my top clients) in my tote and share them with anyone I meet.

What a great post. My kids ask me all the time after I am done talking to someone I come across how I know them and I tell them that I have never met them before in my life. I try to treat every person as a friend that I have not yet met and honestly feel that I can help them with any real estate needs they or a friend of theirs has. I believe if you feel you are worth it and value your own opionions people will listen to you. You need to invest time in yourself and your education to back up all of your words though.

I talk to strangers all the time as you just don't know who could be looking for a new home. My kids have always thought I was crazy so when I became a Realtor it just gave them one more excuse to hide in shame :-) No really they think it is funny that I talk to anyone in grocery lines and yet I told them to never talk to strangers!

Tracey: Talking to strangers, keeping those business cards stashed all over the place, and having my teenagers complain all the time that they hate going with me anywhere because I see someone that I know! I tell them that we'll get out in a hurry and that never happens!! My M.O. to the 't'!! OH, I also wear my name badge EVERYWHERE--if I don't strike up the conversation first, someone will ask ME about the topic!!

Tracey, It sounds like you met a pro. Interesting encounter and a good reason to keep those business cards handy.

This blog resembles me, LOL . It is great to hear your story and keep in mind that there is another perspective. The key is to listen. - Thanks

Bonner

Good point. There are people out there that need a great Realtor. "What do you do" is a great place to start.

I enjoyed your post. I have had many similar experiences. I go shopping with my name tag and get to talk to many people waiting in line to check out. You just never know!!!

That's why we ARE Realtors. We love people. Great post. Thank you. I thought I was the only one talking to strangers.

My wife never understands me when I start talking to strangers...even when I blog she can't understand why I want to blog to strangers:)

Tracey, Life would be so boring if we did not have strangers. I am always astonishing my adorable 14 year old. I think she decided she wants to keep me because the result of me talking to strangers is that every venture out is an adventure. Nothing is predictable She now shares my passion for being the first to acknowledge the other.

Its an acquired passion.

Thanks for the great post, being somewhat of an introvert and my hubby is even quieter than me, talking to strangers is almost OUT of the question. And I have to really laugh at the fact that God has such a sense of humor. David and I are both in the talking to people business. What is it they say about postitive thinking, "I LOVE meeting new people, I AM a great Motivational speaker and I speak easily in front of hundreds" LOL

Bonnie Lelak

The HomeInspectorsWife

Hello, how are you doing and keep it moving works for me! LOL

Excellent lesson Tracey, we never know where our next or future client is or will be. The more hooks we have in the water, the better chance we have of finding them, even if it embarasses the kids. ;-)

Hi Tracey,

Nice post! It it made me chuckle and hungry!

Nice Post! Yes, talk to strangers! My name badge is my billboard and in all cases the strangers start the conversation. Everyone loves to talk about real estate today. Let's face it, its a HOT TOPIC!! Real estate related items make the headlines every day. I build my database from standing on lines, pumping gas, waiting in doctors offices and even at the grocery store walking down the aisles. I try for two new contacts every day. When you think about it, it's really a small goal and it's FUN meeting new people. I have closed several deals with "strangers" that I met out in the community! DON'T BE A SECRET AGENT!! Diane Lombardino, Realty International, www.findWOWproperties.com, palm beach gardens real estate

Very Funny, I've had that happen with a Mary Kay Salesperson once. Good suggestions!

Wow, that is great, I have been talking to anyone and everyone. It is fun to see who you can meet out there

TRACEY

GREAT POST AND REMINDER TO ALL OF US NEVER KNOW THAT YOU MIGHT BE LETTING A POTENTIAL CLIENT SLIP AWAY. I ALWAYS TEND TO WEAR MY NAME BADGE AND I CANT TELL YOU HOW MANY PEOPLE THAT HAVE APPROACHED ME FIRST. THE OTHER GREAT TWO PLACES ARE HAIR AND NAIL SALONS.

BARBARA AUCLAIR-KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY IN MASSACHUSETTS

Loved your post. You are so right. You have to be consistant, and it doesn't hurt to wear your badge everywhere either. By the way, I miss Trader Joes. We don't have any here in College Station Texas, but it wouldn't hurt if you would put in a good word for us and tell them we're not just about BBQ

Great post- the graphic with the dessert nearly made me go insane--I wear my nametag everywhere I go almost--and it really helps in getting conversation started with strangers

Love the story and the TJ Tiramisu! I use to hate stepping out of my comfort zone to chat with strangers. I have learned over the years you have nothing to lose and a lot to gain!

Funny story. Opportunities are everywhere! I find that when I wear my name tag or when someone finds out that I sell real estate they immediately start talking about the market.

Tracey, Wearing my REALTOR pin has helped me starting new conversations with strangers and gives a great opportunity to hand out my business card.

I still get surprised when an opportunity comes along in the places I least expected. I think everyone wants to be involved in real estate either selling, buying or investing. When they finally meet someone who shares that interest and wants to discuss it with them.. look out! :)

Everyone is a potential client whether you know it or not. Just be practical and never let them take you off your guard.

Good one, Tracy! Thanks for this post! It's encouraging!! Being somewhat new in the business world, I have slowly grown to talk more about my business to people. When I first started, I was always so hesitant because I didn't want to be that annoying person who always talked about their work... Then I put myself in other people's shoes. I ask other people about their jobs all the time; it's interesting to learn more about what others do, come to find out, they are interested in learning more about my job as well! Ugg, you live and learn as you go I guess!

Tracey - This should be required reading for anyone starting in any aspect of this business. Heck, it should be required reading as a constant reminder to us all. Thank you my dear!

ok im guilty. i've been talking to strangers for years before i even started selling real estate. as a matter of fact, my talking to strangers got me invited to be a real estate agent. i like the stories and boy have i heard some good ones. cheers to strangers!

Tracy -- Great story and smart business. I was just recently talking to a Keller agent about the 8 X 8 system. I now have a box of note cards in my car for writing personal notes after I meet someone new.

Very good story. I had picked up a client at a gas station when they asked if I knew the neighborhood.

Tracy - entertaining as well as educational. I find that all the lines we go through in airports are great places to strike up a conversation. We can always generate referral business for other areas.

It seems like I am always talking to strangers. Alot of people think I look like that actor from ER. So it is usually an ice breaker for me to engage into a conversation.

Fred Smith

When I first started in real estate I was the giver of cards. I think now it is at least even. As I became more recognized in the community I became the receiver more and more. I still enjoy it.

Talking to strangers is the heart of our business and it has been my life-ling obsession!

Be of service! The rewards will come!

I love to talk! However...like you I have a 15 yr old daughter who just dies if I even mention real estate to anyone I don't know. I just tell her....it pays the bills!

LOL.... You got 'picked up' in the frozen food section of Trader Joes. That is a priceless story.

That is a great story. I hope you and the 70 year old have a wonderful future together. Thanks for reminding us of the basics!!

Tracy, dueling business people in the frozen food aisle and he fired the first shot.Hilarious.As for the kids let em run(chickens).

I think you're right on the ball here--especially about your kids being embarassed! I always hated when my mom would carry on conversations with complete strangers, but now, as i find myself doing it, I realize what an an asset she taught me...

Tracey...

I love talking to strangers. Although sometimes it gets me in trouble :)

I know it may sound a little weird but I never outright tell strangers I own a Real Estate Company. I always wait for them to ask what I do. This way I never come off as someone who's only talking to sell.

Now don't get me wrong. I'm not saying anything bad or negative. I am just sharing what seems to work for me :)

Bear in mind that this comment is coming from the same person who tells a Buyer "Good luck with that" and hangs up the phone :)

TLW...ROAR!

Fun post Tracey. And his opening gambit was priceless. "You look like you're self employed." Sales 101 with a creative touch, you gotta love it. From the kindness of strangers... good things do come. Thanks for this amusing read of a good story. Did you end up buying the cake?

This is an example of a great blog that is engaging (because it is real), written well and real estate relevant. Thanks Tracey. I will forward to my invitees that are new to blogging.

That was a very entertaining post. Two pros facing off. It is very easy for a good salesperson to sell to another good salesperson.

Lance - This is a great way of looking at. Wow! 10,000 people in your data base, that's pretty impressive.

Roland - It's so true, if you don't ask, you'll never know.

Lanre - Anyone can generate leads by just talking to strangers. You start little by little but be intentional.

Virginia - I love it, the check is in the mail. How funny is that?

Karen - In this particular story, I was actually just shopping and only focused on the Tiramisu. The other guy was the one with the confidence. I just loved his style.

Dennis - That's an interesting challenge to target younger people. I talk to everyone young or old and many times it's not even about real estate, it's just about connections.

Nannette - I lived in Virginia for a few years so I understand about the loooong conversations. It used to drive me crazy since I lived in NY for 20 years, everything happens really fast!!

Marzena - Yep, Gotta love that sweet tooth!

Adam - I think he recognized the NY in me, not the self employed. I do everything fast including talking. I consciously have to slow down my speech. I have hyper speed.

Norma - I also give those American Lifestyle magazines to my data base. I have them mailed directly from the company. I never thought of using them as a give away, but that's a great idea!

Charity - Yes, you should be able to back up your words, but you also shouldn't wait until all of your training is finished to meet people. I believe in on the job training in real estate.

Cindy - That's my son's favorite line, "Mom, you taught me never to talk to strangers, what about you?"

Debe - You are so right, there are never quick trips anywhere. Opportunity sometimes knocks at the most inopportune times.

Dan - I don't know if he was a pro, but he certainly taught me a lot about what it's like to be approached by a nice and genuine person with a smile.

Al - People love to talk about themselves, and a job is pretty easy to chat about. I thought it was a great real estate pick up line.

Barbara - I have never worn a name tag, my son would have a field day with that one but I have known lots of agents that have taken listings because they were wearing their name-tag at the right time.

Kenneth - Apparently we're all talking to strangers. That's a good thing.

Neal - That's so funny. I guess it would seem unusual to a non-salesperson why you talk or blog for that matter to strangers.

Suzi - Wow, it's great that your daughter learned from you and talks to strangers too. This will definitely help her if she ever decides to go in to sales.

Bonnie - Yep, you just have to keep giving yourself those positive suggestions and try a little every single day. You'll get there.

Kerwin - Thanks for stopping by.

Marti - I love the analogy, you're so right the more hooks we have in the water the more fish will catch for sure.

Trace - I love that picture, I just love Tiramisu. Thanks for the comment.

Diane - You are so right, don't be a secret agent. This is such a great way of putting it!

Monica - Thanks for stopping by and commenting. I still use Mary Kay moisturizer after all these years.

Dave - It is fun, people are so interesting, some are nice and some are not, but they all have something different going on. I love to figure out the back story.

Barbara - Yes, yes, hair and nail salons are really good. Especially since you're sitting there for a long time, you can really get a good conversation going.

Stephanie - OK, the next time in Trader Joes I'll mention it. They have some great bargains there for sure.

Debra - I'll have to rethink the name tag thing, everyone seems to agree that it's a real conversation starter.

Janice - I think once we can make ourself clear about that, nothing to lose and everything to gain, it gets much easier.

Christina - Opportunities are everywhere, even on the golf course, so do what you love and meet people everywhere.

Judy - I didn't even know that non-REALTORS would be able to recognize the pin. Hmm, now that would be much easier for me to wear than my name tag.

Ben - I focus on relationship building not so much about talking about real estate specifically. I really just try to get contact information.

Robert - You are so right, everyone is a potential client.

Great post, thanks for sharing Tracey!

Erika - It's really important to ask questions and really listen.

Jason - Dahling, thanks for stopping by.

Dee - Now that's funny, talking to a stranger got you in to this business, now you know it really works!

Lori - I love systems and the Keller Williams 8x8 is a great one.

Chris - Oh I love it! What a perfect story.

Sharon - Airports are a good place to meet people too. And you just never know if you'll meet my personal favorite, the relo client.

Freddie - Lucky you, looking like an actor is a great way to meet people.

Randy - How nice that you can now be the receiver of cards. I guess if I pay my dues long enough I'll get there. Well, if I don't move again.

Matt - I never thought of it this way, but I think you're right.

Barbara - Yep, these teenagers have to understand that being cool doesn't pay the bills.

Tom - Right picked up in the frozen food section, you gotta love it.

David - I hope so too! I haven't heard from him since although I did send him a personal note.

Cameron - Dueling business people eh? I learned more from the interaction so I'm on the plus side with the whole thing.

Justin - Yeah, I'll tell that to my son tonight, how lucky he is!!!! Somehow I feel another roll of the eyes coming.

TLW - I agree with you, it's important to get a genuine conversation going first. No need to just blurt out what you do. Most of the time, if you ask someone what they do, they'll tell you and then ask you the same question back.

Gary - You are the only one in all of these comments that got the importance of the cake! YES YES YES I bought the darn cake and enjoyed every morsel. I'm good for another couple of months now, I'll stay away from taht section of the store.

Tara - Thanks for the compliment. It was fun to write this one.

Wayne - Yes, I always find salespeople an easy sell. They understand the mechanics of a transaction.

I really appreciate all the great ideas everyone shares here on AR. I know "talking to strangers" isn't exactly new, but it's easy to forget that people can build entire business on something this simple.

Tracey - Good story! Striking up a conversation with a stranger is a lot like cold calling. Not exactly most people's favorite thing, but it's one important aspect of building a business. I try to make it a point every week or two to drive to a smaller town nearby and drop into the offices of as many lawyers, CPAs, and real estate companies as I can in an afternoon to leave marketing materials. I don't always get a new client out of it, but oftentimes I do.

Thanks for sharing your experience.

The easiest way to Prospect is simply talking to strangers! Try to find 10 people a week to strike up a conversation and hand a card!

What do you mean "talk to strangers"? How in the world would anyone make a living in real estate if they only did business with people they already know? Developing the skill of striking up a conversation with strangers is one of the most important skills to develop.

If anyone hesitates about talking to strangers, simply remember how good it feels for someone else to initiate the conversation. It is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge others - even if it never leads to business.

Great Post!

I got three listings once, by talking to strangers. This was all because my 3 year old daughter wanted to look at the puppies at athe pet store.

Hi Tracey! I love doing stuff like this. One of my best conversation starter secret weapons is my dog Chanel. I take her in stores with me. Strangers always talk to me because of her. I always find a way to see what they do and give them a card.

Good for you Tracey...you rock! P.S. You didn't tell us if you bought that piece of Tiramisu cake! LOL

Tracey, great discussion on the connection precedes the relationship. This happens to me all the time in the car wash, whether I start the conversation, or someone is trying to sell me something.

LOL.....my husband always gives me a hard time for talking to strangers. Even before I got my license, I was that way. I don't necessarily approach them. They more or less approach me. He says everyone can tell I am a great listener and wants there chance!

I love this blog I have read more then once. I'm still getting the hang of talking to strangers but have always enjoyed it. I to find people very interesting and they make me laugh. I love finding all the different reactions I get for striking up a conversation. Sometimes it seems that people don't no what to do or say. I am lucky right now I have a 3 yr old and a 5 1/2 yr old so they make it pretty easy but someitimes bored.

Too funny. Now you must go back and get some tiramasu.

FEB

2008

Dear Tracey,

The Doors had a song called "People are Strange". People are strange, when you're a stranger ....

Anyway, that song kinda spooks me a bit. I liked your article. I like tiramisu. I hope you read and comment on my blog someday. You've got an incredible amount of points.

Enjoy the sunshine in California Tracey.

John Hurbon

Newbie - tryin to get 10,000 point mark.

Google BENSON HORSE PROPERTY to find me on the web.

That was strange.

Haha... I talk to people all the time and my teenaged son thinks I'm the biggest dork. I just laugh and tease him that I'm getting back at him for all the times he embarrassed me in the mall or the grocery store when he was little. <g>

This story is so true - if you are approachable, strangers will talk. And I totally agree about the teenagers. They use to laugh and have fun about how many people I would talk to but now that they are older and have an image to uphold, they leave the area.

Talking to strangers is a great idea and works some of the time for sure! Not to mention you get to meet all kinds of nice people!

Sharon - You won't believe how much people share their ideas here on AR, it's really amazing.

Ken - That's a great idea visiting professionals once a week and you're right talking to strangers is much better than cold calling, well at least for me.

Dick - You're right, and capturing their contact info works even better.

Kathi - I just love talking to new people, and I agree with you if we don't talk to strangers who are we supposed to see houses to?

Kevin - Wow, maybe I should check out the pet store.

Lizette - Dogs and little kids are the best conversation starters there are.

George - I did by the cake for sure!

Gary - I have rarely had someone try to sell me something but I have met several people that turned in to clients.

Christy - Great listening skills are important when talking to strangers.

DeVerie - Keep cookies in your pocket for the kids, that used to work for me.

Bob and Carolin - Nope, I bought the Tiramisu....

John - I love the Doors and this song. I'll check out your blog for sure. Thanks for stopping by.

Virginia - Thank you for the comment.

Chrstina - That's a great one, I'll have to remember that.

Idegroat - What's up with these teenagers, I used to be cool, but now I'm not.

Emily - If you don't try, you'll never know.

Tracey-- this is one area I am always in trouble. My fiance prefers not to go shopping with me because he says I can't get out of the store without talking to at least 3 people. He's kinda shy.

Great post Tracey & I couldn't agree more! Get out there & meet people...especially when others are too "afraid"!! Thanks for the wisdom & hopefully I can reciprocate one day!

FEB

2008

one of my best spots is the post office!!

That's great! I find this works as well. I always pass out my cards and also depending on what the other prerson'a line of business is, I ask for their card. It's can be a graet form of networking and lead generation. As for your son...that is too funny. :)

FEB

2008

Tracey, I have always loved talking to strangers..I don't think of them that way...but as just another human walking on the same earth... When we lived in Manhattan it wasn't so easy. NC is so friendly...it's easy to talk to "strangers" here.. And when we have our dog Bella with us, she is a "stranger" magnet!

Ginger

FEB

2008

Right on target! I like to talk to strangers at the park. They are members of my community and often homeowners that will eventually need to refinance or purchase again. Also they often know someone that needs to talk to a Home Loan Consultant.

Very Nice post, LOL

www.10kpermonth.com/craigcooper

FEB

2008

Hey Tracey, great advice. I always tend to forget about all the people that I come into contact with on a daily basis. I usually wait for customers to come to me! It is time to be proactive!

I have cards stuck all over the place, too. Absolutely everywhere, just in case. And I change them often so that even people who have one already want another one because its different.

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