Once in a while I encounter a negative comment or two about blogging. I was speaking to several agents from across the state and the conversation turned to blogging. Most folks are very interested and I try to share the benefits of blogging and how it can help position yourself as the "source of the source" and the benefit of search engine placement.
This person's commented that her broker does not allow blogging. It was too much liability. So ... does your Broker allow you to advertise? Face facts, everything you do has potential liability. What about having a blog to protect you from liability. "Your honor, as you can see I have posted several public blogs about the importance of having a home inspection." A blog in that situation is a protection against liability.
I believe the real underlying issue is control. Instead of what you are posting, they are afraid of posting... period. What if your individual blog became the "source of the source?" The public went directly to you for information and bypassed the Broker's website? Brokers spend THOUSANDS of dollars to drive the public to their website. An individual blog is now a threat to that position. It also becomes a threat with search engine optimization.
As an individual agent, you are an INDEPENDENT contractor. YOU are in the business of self promotion. If your broker does not allow you to blog - you should seriously consider who they are ultimately promoting. Many companies big and small in our market readily encourage blogging. Those that do believe in blogging are positioning themselves for success. If your current Broker does not allow blogging then perhaps you should consider a different firm?
Several years ago when I first heard of blogging my initial thought was it was at most a novelty and I totally dismissed it. I simply did not understand the POWER associated with blogging. That was before I heard the term - search engine optimization. Now, my thought is, "How can you afford NOT to blog?" Real Estate is a contact sport and blogging is direct contact with the consumer. I spoke with a potential client the other day and she mentioned several articles she had read on my blog. It is also extremely beneficial in terms of education. I have learned things on Activerain, that set you apart from the competition. At 11:00 PM I can not call clients or show homes - but I write a quick post.
Thanks,
David Matney, CRS,GRI
Alliance Real Estate
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David, Interesting thought! I never really thought of having a blog to use as my defense...but really I would rather have no need!!!