During a recent meeting with one of our local real estate offices, a question came up about how to create an effective Internet presence through the use of social media/networks. A comment was made about how many profile pictures are out-dated, and give an 'inaccurate' representation of the particular person.
It reminded me of the time when I had just begun my real estate career back in Kansas (please, no 'Wizard of Oz' jokes). There was a female agent in a competing office who advertised rather aggressively through printed media, billboards, and even the screen at the local movie theater. There was always an ongoing debate as to whether her glamor shots had been re-touched or enhanced. I remember the first time I met this agent in person. I was having coffee at a local haunt, when a fellow agent pointed her out. My reaction was somewhat embarrassing. It was the first time in my life that I had 'sprayed' someone in a public place. To say that she bore absolutely no resemblance to her ad shots would be an gross understatement. It was a very stark contrast between a 'created' image versus the 'real deal.'
Back in the booming Gold Rush Days, towns went up literally overnight. Rather than investing in strong, permanent structures, owners would construct 'false fronts' to provide an attractive visual aesthetic for their place of business. Many times, behind the alluring 'false front,' was a weathered, run-down shell that lacked strength or substance.
As you invest the time, energy, and resources to create and enhance your Internet presence/image, does it reflect who you are in 'real-life?' When you engage people in conversations on your blog, are they reading 'Your' own unique thoughts, words, and opinions? When you finally meet your clients in person, face-to-face, what kind of reaction will you invoke?
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