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Are YOU Connecting with Gen Y-ers?

Are You Connecting with Gen Y-ers?

Generation Y

Do you Tweet? Do you use Facebook? What about using a Blackberry? Do you text? If you're not doing all of the above and you want to tap into one of the most important generations that will be buying in 2009, then you'd better get to it! Gen X-ers (born 1965 - 1976) started the trend and now we have a new generation who is incredibly tech savvy. Those born between 1977 and 1994, known as the Generation Y-ers are not into cold calls or even friendly phone calls! They prefer to text and text is what you must do to be able to communicate with those from both of these generations.

The Y-Generation commands more spending power than those of us in previous generations did at their age. They may come out of college with student loans that many of us did not have to worry about but, a large portion of them are graduating college and pulling in $100K per year in their new technology jobs. They CAN purchase homes and ARE purchasing homes; 2009 holds a promising new group of Gen-Y buyers for those of us in the real estate business and we need to be sure that our business plan incorporates them into it.

Gen Y

Here are a few items to add to (or check-off ) your list to ascertain that you're able to attract this promising generation to your business:

1. Twitter: There have been many posts regarding Twitter, what it is, how to feed your AR posts to Twitter and just how to 'Tweet' someone. Take a few moments to sign up and create your profile, then feed your Active Rain posts to Twitter. You'll be surprised at how soon you'll be 'found' on Twitter!

2. Facebook: This forum began as a teen site and I was reluctant to join but, after my own teens insisted that I 'try' it, I've met many wonderful people there and even have some clients from the site! The set-up process is relatively easy and you can read others' posts with tutorials as to how to set up Facebook. As with Twitter, you can add your RSS feeds to Facebook from AR.

3. Learn to use text--that was the hardest of all for me--I just didn't have the patience to use texting because the keyboard seemed so small to me. Practice with a family member for awhile and you'll soon be as speedy as others who use it every day! Remember, Gen Y-ers LOVE to get that text message that their Offer has been accepted!
Enjoy you Gen-Y clients

4. Viral marketing-- incorporating You-Tube into your advertising; that's what the Gen Y-ers are into right now! Get into it and you'll soon find that you're hooked too! Use this forum to create buzz within this age group and showcase your listings that fit into the Gen-Y budget.

5. Treat this generation like GOLD--not only are they important in you're business but, they WANT to feel important! Spoil them and let them know that you can communicate with them--remember instant gratification is this generation's demand! Don't just check your email once or twice a day; check it more often than you do your voice messages! Be the first agent to respond to their email inquiry!

6. As with every generation, Gen Y-ers LOVE photos! Post them everywhere! And for Pete's sake, don't just post the front elevation shot on MLS and online--post the maximum allowed on each and every site--this is what they love!

The members of Generation Y are your future business in 2009! They are more qualified to buy a home than any generation in the past. They're well-educated and with those higher salaries are more likely to be qualified for a mortgage than any other generation in the past--right out of college. Interest rates are down and the selection of homes are far better than other generations have had. Be sure that you're including these simple tasks in YOUR marketing efforts.

About the author:

Debe Maxwell is a Charlotte Residential Real Estate Broker, Certified Neighborhoor & Relocation Specialist, ABR & e-PRO who can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Charlotte NC Metro Area. If you're relocating to or from any other area of the country, Debe connects you with any member of her team of relocation professionals in your destination or exit city of choice. The destination service is of no cost to you! The Maxwell House Group's quality service guarantee puts this team far ahead of the competition; providing unsurpassed customer service is their #1 priority! Debe Maxwell -- Helen Adams Realty -- 704.491.3310

Disclaimer: All information provided by this author is strictly an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, which may or may not be deemed reliable at the time of researching this article and may be time sensitive.

Let's go shopping for Charlotte NC homes for sale!

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Debe Maxwell, CRS/Realtor®/Broker
Broker@TheCharlotteScoop.com
Phone (704) 491-3310

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Posted by Debe Maxwell - Search Charlotte Homes for Sale - Charlotte NC Neighborhoods on 12/08/2008 10:38 AM

Comments (108)

Real Estate Business in the Sales Strategies / Tactics Channel

real estate, active rain tips, real estate business tips, marketing tips

Originally posted at: Charlotte NC Luxury Home Source: Are YOU Connecting with Gen Y-ers?

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108 Comments on Are YOU Connecting with Gen Y-ers?

DEC

2008

I am Gen Y and I could not believe how much this was talked about at the NAR convention in Orlando last month. It really is important for you future business. Thanks

It's all true but the fact of the matter is even if you use these techonolgies if you truly dont understand or live their lifestyle I dont think most will go with you just because you use their media, my niche is first time home buyers because I was one and they are my friends, my age bracket my peers. It works for me. I am one of them. I dont feel that everyone should go after them because they are the next It thing, but because you truly understand them and their lifestyles.

Very informative post, Debe. I have Facebook and Twitter accounts, but can't seem to get a handle on using them actively. When do you have the time? I'm not giving up, though. It's something else to learn during this slower time.

I am a generation Xer myself, and appreciate your great tips! Born in 1973, I am a bit at the fringe, but agree with all your points. great post!

Good info. I got the Twitter account but have not used it effectively. As for facebook, blackberry and the like - I am onboard!

Debe - well done. It really is important ti understand the generational differennces when working with clients, whether buyers or sellers - how they communicate, what's important, etc. ONe of the things I learned is that when this generation buys, very often they want to have the approval of their friends before a final decision is made. They may show up to see the property before the offer is made. I haven't had this experience but know folks who have.

Jeff

Hi Debe....Great Post. I've been Twittering, or shall I say Tweeting for about 6 months, and been on Facebook about a year, really got serious this Fall. Social Media is now a very important part of our exposure on the Internet.

Cheers, thanks for sharing!

Debe - #6 is an important one. So many clients are passing right by houses without the maximum amount of photos (add video and virtual tours and they love them even more). I've also found that they can be very critical of poor remarks (the age old "cozy" means "small", etc.) or lack of remarks. "Great house, great price." as your remarks will not sell the house to this generation. Give them a good descritpion so they know if they want to even look at it. Thanks to the internet, housing choices can be eliminated in your pajamas, so give them as much as you can up front and they'll be more likely to set up a showing.

Hi Benjamin! You know that I have recently worked with two clients from this generation and the fact that I was able to text them back when they first contacted me was what 'landed' me the job! For years, I was resistant to using text because I thought it was too impersonal but, your generation DOES use is as personal contact! I watch my almost-21-year-old son laughing as he's typing away back and forth to his friends. It's just a different form of communication than I was used to but, now I love it! I don't doubt that they were 'touting' it at the conference either!

Hi Heather! We all have our target markets and first-timers are one group that I absolutely LOVE! I love teaching and this group requires alot of hand-holding and process explanation and I just have THE best time with them. I was a first-timer myself and understand what they need--just like all agents--but, you have to have a passion for guiding them through the process. Learning Gen-Y-ers' likes and dislikes was a hurdle that I have finally overcome and this first-time group of buyers was the first for me that 'required' me to change my personal communication habits!

Hi Heather G! I can use them in a very 'basic' form and am currently working on getting my comfort level up too! We'll get it soon, I just know it!

Hi Kristin! Well, thank you! Even born on the fringes, I'm certain that you have much more of a comfort level than most of us!

Hi Gary! We oldies but, goldies WILL get this! Sometimes I feel a bit overwhelmed with all that there is out there to learn about technology but, I'm stickin' to it!! Thanks!

Hi Jeff! Thank you! You are SO right! One of the first things that I do when chatting with a new or potential new client is ask how they best like to communicate. My baby boomers mostly like the phone call and the Gen-Y-ers definitely prefer texting! YES, not only their friends but, their parents--we're selling to all of them! And, you know something that I left out--if they like you, they are THE BEST referring generation! (Seriously).

Debe in Charlotte

Hi Fred! You're absolutely right! It is a bit overwhelming at times but, it is well worth the payoff in the end.

Hi Matt! Thanks! The photos are so important in every generation--especially those who use the internet (which is a HUGE number of buyers) to shop (yes, in their PJ's!) for their next home. So many agents photo the front--or worse yet, use the tax photo--and that's all they put online. These homes don't even get a second look and they're doing their Sellers a HUGE injustice!

Debe in Charlotte

Debe - I joined AR this summer to try to start to learn all of this. I have joined facebook, twitter and several others but am still learning about them. I was wondering if I could give you a call and ask you a few questions. Your name was given to me last week on a subject I'm interested in. Great post. Connie

Thanks Debe. I am trying so hard to keep up with this all. It is overwhelming but we need to learn and do more to reach the younger buyers.

Gen Y is an interesting group. Be prepared for "instant communication" and "shopping for best deal" issues. They use the internet like no other generation and you have to adapt to their buying and selling styles if you want their business.

Debe - This is a terrific gameplan and foundation for those who want to work with Gen Y members (that should be ALL of us!). As always, you have done a terrific job with the design work here as well. I flagged this one for a feature.

Debe - What a great post. I do "tweet" but have resisted texting and Facebook. (sigh) The evidence is overwhelming. I need to get my baby boomer rear in gear.

Hi Connie! Thank you so much! I would love to chat with you anytime! Today is a great day--I'm working on a couple of Offers but, am by my phone and computer all day. Give me a call--704.491.3310.

Hi Paddy! You're so right--it is overwhelming but, we HAVE to jump right in! I'll tell you, I've spent countless hours and thanks to the slow economy, I've had that time to spend learning all of this new high-tech, social networking stuff!!

Hi Ryan! YES it is! You know one thing that I love about this generation is that they have researched the properties and I rarely have to show them more than 5 or 6 properties! They KNOW what they want before I take them out and I LOVE it!

Hi Jason! Well, thank you so much! I appreciate the compliment and hope that others do take the advice and jump in to learn this Gen-Y, business-building social networking. I know that you're really into it and do a fabulous job! I also KNOW that you're servicing this generation quite well! I appreciate the flag too!

Debe in Charlotte

Hi Margaret! I love it--your baby-boomer-butt! I have to remember that one as I'm right there with you! We WILL get this techno stuff, I promise!!

Debe in Charlotte

Apparently, someone was paying attention - I see that you already got the gold star!

I couldnt agree more with the texting, I rarely talk to anyone these days. Everyone is texting, even my mother texts me! I was never into Facebook until about two months ago. I found people that I had not heard from for over 15 years, people that I went to grades school with. There is so much to do online right now, get out there and do it!

Debe,

Thanks for the reminder. With all the new technology and sites to access, I needed a "list" for me to follow so I don't forget anything. Everyone has their favorite way to communicate. Clients should be able to find us without a lot of searching. May you have a prosperous New Year!

Debe - Great advice about picking up on new technology. I love working with 1st time home buyers who happen to include a lot of Gen Y-ers. I'm just a couple years shy of being one. Even for those who don't target this generation as clients, social networking like Twitter, Facebook, etc. is working it's way through generations and can help you connect or reconnect with all sorts of people. It can be a little overwhelming at times. I'm having a great time Tweeting, blogging and connecting with friends and even the friends of my friends. Gone are the days of having a Tupperware party and meeting your friend's friends. They are listed right there for you (with their photo, of course) on your friend's Myspace or Facebook page!

Really appreciated your very clear post -- am still a hybrid realtor, between those vanishing boomers and this tech saavy gen-yer. Plan to spend any free time, over the holidays, learning/doing these things. I plan to be ready for 2009!

Everyone is texting these days, I cant even talk to friends anymore. I am good at it, but wonder if it is acceptable to text other professionals, or potential clients. I guess I should just ask them their preferred method of contacting them.

J Crouch! Thank you though--It doesn't matter who saw it first, the fact that you thought it feature-worthy is a HUGE compliment to me!

Jason: That's too funny that your mom is into texting too! I think that's GREAT! As for Facebook, I'm still learning but, it does seem to be fun--especially if it means generating business while catching up with old friends!

Kay: Thanks & I hope you have a prosperous New Year as well!

Tiffany: You're so right! As for Tupperware parties--I haven't been to one of those in YEARS! Do they still sell it?!

Li: Exatly my purpose--to help members remember that it's that time of the year to complete our plans and they MUST include changes for this generation! Best of luck to you and Happy New Year!

Jason: I receive alot of text messages from other agents and LOVE it! I get things done when I'm on the run and that saves even more messages in my email Inbox! That is generally what I do too--just ask and they LOVE to tell you how they prefer to communicate!

Debe in Charlotte

Your post is a great reminder that no matter our age we must never stop learning how best to serve our clientele - in the ways they want to be served. I am also reminded that just like when we were in college we had to apply ourselves every day in order to get that degree, now I have to take time every day to learn something new, use a new method, or refine what I learned the day or month before in order to call myself a professional full-time Realtor. Each generation has so much to teach us.

Thanks Norm! This is an everchanging business module and we have to change with the times or we'll be left behind, right?! Yes, we do learn so much from each generation--tat is for sure!

Debe in Charlotte

Just went through this. My client hated when we had to speak by phone - preferred any electronic communication except voice, and it made it so much more efficient for all involved. Brought up to speed across the board while in Orlando but still trying to implement everything.

Debe -

Great post, and summary of what you need to do to serve the important "Gen Y" market.

For many of us Boomers, we've attempted to brush a lot of this stuff aside - mainly due to misunderstanding.

You can't do that anymore, and survive. Had the same thought last night, and posted on this very subject asking for help.

I now Twitter, and have been active on Facebook since late 2007. I'm sure, one year from now, there will be even more. We've got to keep up with it!

DEAN & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO

Debe, this is all so true. I think you have to make sure you're comfortable using these methods of communication, or it won't work for you. As a Gen-Yer I know I HATE getting cold calls, so it's no wonder that I hate MAKING cold calls...so I don't do it. I use many of these new technologies to build my real estate business, and it's works for me.

Great post!

It's true. Great post! The only thing you have to learn how to use some of these tools right. Like blogging-you have to do it right:)

Debe, you are so right about technology. You have to learn to use it and embrace the tools. I was up one night until almost 2am setting up my twitter and facebook pages. Once I got the hang of it I wish I had of done it sooner.

Robin Ferebee

Exit Realty Professionals

www.robinferebee.com

1932 Kempsville Road #107

Va. Beach, VA 23464

757-287-3915

Thanks for the great post on communicating with the Gen-Yers. I have two children that are in that group and they are constantly helping me keep up with the times.

Coming a Gen-Y person myself...Great Advice! Logan Utah Real Estate

Hi Debe, great post! A couple other tips I've incorporated and can make a HUGE difference to us GEN-Y'ers are:

- sign yourself up for the buyer alerts for new listings & turn that around with a text or better a PICT to your client with the listing - talk about immediate gratification! (copy them on email too)

- Once you get the showing text the directions with a pict of the house so they know where to go and what to look for!

- Gen Y'ers are an eco-friendly bunch - add into your email signature that "while paper is still necessary in the real estate industry, you do your best to eliminate all paper waste & will utilize electronic communications as often as possible"...almost like a disclaimer statement at the bottom of your email. This gives off an approachable - and likeminded - conveyance they will appreciate.

I hope these additional tips are helpful. You can find these and others on my blog, thanks!

Thank goodness that most of my clients are not from this generation. Yes I am on Twitter and yes I am on facebook, yes I can text, but the fact of the matter remains that clients by after they bring their self in person to my office, get qualified and then get in my car to go see property. And I hate the entire idea of instant gratification. I find it much of what is wrong with this entire country. There was NOTHING wrong with what my parents taught me about working towards and saving for anything that you want. Patience is a virtue that parents quit teaching. Don't get me wrong I understand the need to keep up and service this generation Y, and I'm doing just that. But at the same time I think so many of the problems with the economy in this country has been caused by the failure of parents to teach this wonderful techno-savy generation Y that good things come to those who work, save and wait.

How many foreclosures could have been prevented if the people had saved 10 ot 20 percent down and gone into a mortgage with equity. Not to mention if they'd kept their big boxy television until they saved enough money to actually own a plasma tv instead of financing that too maybe they could pay their mortgage. I'll get off my soap box now. It's just that "demands instant gratification" just makes me nuts.

It is all true as a mother of a gen y-er:) great tips - I am on all of these and texting is the only way to stay in contact with these guys!

Yikes! I'm getting old, the speed at which some of these folks can text is frightening. Congrats on feature!

You had many excellent points in this post, especially the one about checking your email. Going through your emails once a day is not going to cut it. They are going to expect you to get back to them pretty quickly, a major reason texting is so big.

Hi Debe..

Thanks for the great blog! I quite agree that you have to keep up with the latest social networks, etc. Technology is what will keep the real estate industry moving and shaking ..

A group of us Gen X and Y'ers passionate about technology and real estate developed a social network just for real estate professionals..www.townizen.com. Much like a focalized Facebook, and a bit like LinkedIn, this website allows the real estate industry connect with eachother more effectively and efficiently, as well as take advantage of online real estate tools to help market yourselves. When not blogging, check it out! ;) (www.townizen.com) Hope to see you on our real estate community of Townizen soon!

This is all true - however, when all is said and done, they also want that face time and establishing a good relationship! All of the tools are only a piece of the equation.

Hi Debe, I think this is a wonderful post and so many agents in my office (who are mostly a generation older) don't understand blogging, let alone facebook or twitter. I actively do all though as well as contribute to Trulia Voices and blog on Realtor.com and Broker/Agent Social as well. I do have a question about feeding my AR posts to Twitter and Facebook though. I see a few others had questions on this too...any chance you could write a post on the step by step of that subject? If not, can I contact you to ask how? Thanks in advance!!!!

I will look you up on Facebook!

Those of us with college aged kids know how important a good grasp of technology is...particularly when it comes to communication. That being said, one thing I would like to point out is that my college aged son thinks it's rather "pathetic" for the "older" crowd to be hanging out on Facebook. His words, not mine...

Great list of marketing channels for Generation Y. In addition to their high-paying tech jobs, many Y's will also be inheriting wealth from their Boomer parents.

Love the post and your photos Debe...excellent job! Of course I agree and particpate in all of your mentioned activities:)

As a generation Y-er I couldnt agree more! We hate sales calls and slow emails. We are on top of our technology and, right or wrong, we excpect the people we work with to be on top of theirs.

David: Thanks and I hope it helps you with your business plan for 2009 too!

Dean: It's that learning curve that keeps getting in our way but, if we're tenacious, we'll get it! I just KNOW we will!

Laura: Absolutely--you're the pudding with the proof in your words! Thanks for sharing your view as a Gen-Y-er!

Olena: We'll eventually get it and enjoy it--it's all about embracing the changes that we MUST in any business!

Robin: That's right--once you do it and become accustomed to it, you can't imagine doing it any other way--the next thing will come right along for us to learn and possibly dread as well!

Erika: Isn't if funny to watch how they communicate and how different thay are 'socially' as teens than we were!? I used to sit on a stool with the corded phone for HOURS chatting with my friends--it drove my mom NUTS but, that was all we had! My how times have changed, huh?!

Kaleb: Thanks so much--I'm glad to know that I'm doing it right!

Amy: GREAT tips--I love to be able to send them the dirrections via Blackberry and just have them meet me at the first home--most of them don't want to ride in the car with an agent either! They're quite independent!

Tammy: I agree--anyone from ANY generation has to be pre-qualifed before getting in my car! There is No sense in wasting anyone's time if not! Most of them don't ride along with me (it's not my driving either!!!) as they prefer to multi-task by chatting with their friends and family while we're out looking! Hey, that's okay with me--it allows me time to make and receive calls between homes too!

I have to say that the 'instant gratification' does fit this generation and I can say this because I have TWO of them! They used to get SO upset with my husband and I because we actually made them pay for their own car insurance and dating! "Nobody has to pay for these things, Mom!" "OH YES THEY DO and if you want it, you'll have to work for it!" One of these days I'll hear a 'thank you' I'm sure but, I was the most unreasonable mom in the school because I wouldn't buy them a Range Rover or a Benz and just hand them money every time they turned around! However, my boys won't be coming home after college--they've learned how to stand on their own two feet!

Cooper: You're definitely a step ahead of 90% of agents out there! You GO!

Frank: Yes it is! I type very fast but, my texting is still at a snail's pace!! Thanks!

Tony & Libby: I learned that before I even took the ePro course last year but, it is even more important now that--if you don't respond, they'll move on to someone else!

Laura: Thank you! I will definitely check it out!

Joan: Funny that you should bring that up--one of my last closings was with a cute young couple from this generation and I have stopped by their home several times in the last few weeks just to see how they're doing and what they've done to their home. EVERY time I am leaving, they ask me when I'm coming back and want to set up a time for me to return! They are just so cute and I just love that they want me to visit with them often.

Sonya: Thanks so much and I'll be happy to do so! I'm still learning how to do alot of things but, I'll post what I do know to get you going!

Kelly: I'm with you on the technology--heck, my boys taught me about that a few years ago and I'm just now getting into it! Now, my sons tell me that My Space is no longer used by their generation that they do prefer Facebook! We have these discussions about what they write on these sites as when they graduate, I don't want them losing job opportunities because their employer sees something that they don't want representing their company on my boys' social profile somewhere!

John: Very good point about the wealth of their parents too! Thanks!

Bill: Thanks so much! It really has become a 'fun' way to spend time too!

Lauren: Thank you so much for sharing your views! I agree with you too!

Debe in Charlotte

Great blog topic ... we are working on making sure that we utilize all the tools that appeal to the next generation of First Time home buyers. Looks like we are on the right track.

Thank you.

Debe- Yes I too have one off at college and as much as she tried to tell me I needed to pay for stuff, I insisted that if she didn't want wal-mart sneakers she had to have a job to pay the difference. I'm very proud of the self reliant young woman she has become. Needed to be many more parents that made their children earn things. I'm glad you were one of them.

I am so connected my little fingers hurt. From texting, friending, and tweeting I am really getting tired of me.

Debe,

What a great topic. I've been sharing this with business colleagues and real estate agents all year long. You are right on track. It does take an effort and can be overwhelming if you let it.

Thanks Debe, Another newbie on AR who is a little overwhelmed by it all. MY last client wanted to text so I have started that but concerned that all in all it will be a slow process. Maybe all of a sudden it will come to me in a flash but it better be soon, I am already 66, and if it all doesn't come together pretty soon I'll be using it in my retirement. Plan on using your list as part of my 2009 business plan and appreciate you taking the time to put it together. Take Care

Great post, Debe. I have to admit being pulled into some of it slightly begrudgingly, but as times chance, so must we!

Debe you bring up some great points. As an agent thats part of generation Y, I find myself expecting everything instantly. Nothing is fast enough for me. Maybe I can take your post in the opposite direction and have some patience with clients and other agents that are not part of my generation.

Debe, excellent advice. Since I've been diving into some of this lately, I would offer one extra piece of advice. Don't try to do it all at once or you are setting yourself up for failure. Choose one and learn as much as you can so that you can navigate quickly but effectively, then move on to the next.

Great job, Julie! Keep up with it and your business will do well!

Hi again Tammy! OH, how I wish you were a parent here! I fought this battle pretty much on my own among our group of friends and our boys' group of friends and it certainly was tempting to just give in a few times. However, I think it will come back to them ten-fold in the very near future! I just want a final 'thank you' from them!! heehee!

Hi Lisa! I'm LMAO! Your little fingers and my wrists! Can you say 'carpel tunnel'?!!

Unknown: It certainly CAN be overwhelming!

George: If you're not a member of Facebook or Twitter--go join and complete your profile on each. That will take the longest amount of time that you'll have to invest at one sitting! Then, use this recent post that I just did (as a result of so many emails asking me how-to) to send your posts from Active Rain to both Twitter and Facebook without having to do anything after the initial set-up that is described in the post. Good luck and I hope your 2009 is prosperous!

Hey Jesse! Thanks so much! And, absolutely we don't want to be left behind!

Debe in Charlotte

Amy: I understand your generation because I have two JUST like you!! HA! Unfortunately, you've rubbed off on me and I too, find myself impatient when my computer doesn't go fast enough or my text message doesn't SEND fast enough! We're all becoming more demanding of instant gratification!

Barb: That is EXCELLENT advice! I am in the middle of TOO many things right now and am feeling quite a bit overwhelmed at this point. I realized a couple of weeks ago that I needed to step back and attack them one at a time. It's always better to have a good grasp on things before you move on to another task.

Debe in Charlotte

Debe...

I Twittered The Book on The Berry and found myself Buried under the Text that went Viral in that moment I found the Y Gold :)

To All...

Don't look at me like that. I read the post, I just felt like mouthing off :)

It's much better than...Nice post. Pretty post. Great post. Thanks for sharing. Ick :)

TLW...ROAR!

This is such a "sick" (sick means cool) post! And I am so proud to be a part of Twitter, Facebook, texting, an so on even though I am not in the age bracket of the Generation Y-ers! At least I hope I am on the right track to stay in tough with these new clients in 2009!

Cracked myself up with all of that :)

TLW...ROAR!

TLW! I had to read that one aloud to Ray! Still laughing our as#@! off!! You are one crazy woman! How DO you come up with this stuff? I have to say, I much prefer your comment than the 'great post, thanks for sharing' comment though!

Have a great evening wild woman!

Terrie: Thank you! I seriously believe you ARE on the right track and keep doing what you're doing! Best of luck in 2009!

Debe in Charlotte

This is a great post. Very very usefull information. I am sure i will find it all very useful, thanks.

As a late boomer I am plugging away at technology to get up to speed. I am taking the E-Pro class which has value for me and hopefully my clients. Timely post, best in the new year.

You are amazing. I have barely grasped that I am baby boomer and here you are telling me about a whole new group of people. If I were in Charlotte, I would head over to that wine bar in Phillips Place and dive into a bottle of Pino Grigio. Generation Y'ers? Are these really young people with a ton of money? Like the Olsen twins? I am in trouble. I don't like their music, their movies, their role models, Linday Lohan give me a break, their attitudes or their lack of respect for old guys like me.

I have just started sending emails without having to hit the reply button first. I am getting text messeages on my phone and still have no clue how to answer them. I just call the people back. I do know how to call on my phone. I had to have my 4 year old Granddaughtger show me how to pull up a text message. She said I was silly for not knowing how to do this. I don't even turn my computer off at night for fear of not getting it back on in the morning. And now I have a whole new generation to worry about. I did not get to enjoy being a baby boomer. I guess my 15 minutes is up. Please keep me posted on these new people as I am not technically advanced enough to recognize one if they were to flash me with their hard drive.

Thanks for the heads up.

While I agree with most of your post, Debe, I question texting clients. I'm not saying you're wrong but do certain people really prefer that method of communication? I would worry that takes the personal aspect out of this.

Good post. As someone else noted, I am also on the fringe (1976). I am up on most of the technology and use it daily. I try to respond quickly (to give that previously indicated "instant gratification") but I had one prospect tell me that my response to her email (I was with clients and responded personally inside of 2 hours) wasn't quick enough and she had chosen another agent. It's those instances that make me say enough is enough... I still get to have a life and if a client is really that demanding, I don't think I want them on my client list anyways.

Debe, I just set up Outlook 2007 to text from there. It works great. As a mom of a genX she text her clients all the time. I had to learn.

Great post. This is very true in the silicon valley.

Marcy Moyer Keller Williams Realty Plao Alto Ca

Good Advice!

I am a Gen Y-er and I'm just now grasping the whole internet marketing thing!?? Yup....it took me a while to catch on. lol

Debe,

Hope all is well with you and your sweetie! Is he recovering OK? I have been thinking about you two a lot lately.

LOVE this blog and I WHOLEHEARTEDLY Agree!!!! My husband has a hair salon on the Washington State University Campus....and several years ago we noticed a major shift...gone were the days of pre-booking appointments in advance...it has to be TODAY or at the least tomorrow....Why? They have no idea what they are doing 2 weeks from now...I believe the same is true in some respects in real estate...not so much from the impulsive nature of looking at homes etc...but they demand close to instant communications...

I am a baby boomer and I try to stay with them not to say I don't venture out but I have hired people that are Gen X and Y and they seem to be able to handle them for me.

Very informative post. I'm on Facebook, but still having a time with twitter. But, will learn more on twitter during this slow time. Thanks for the post.

wow Debe. You put alot of thought into this one. I am happy to say I am on Twitter, Face Book, and Yes, I have sold homes to buyers in their 20's this year, and it is so True! They rather text me instead of calling my cell.

This is an excellent post

Thanks

Don

Well said I generate business many times because I relate. I love how some still call me son that gets way under my skin after all I am 32. Great post

Arise Mtg: Thanks! Good luck!

Unknown: Thanks and you're going to LOVE the ePro course!

Bill: You are one crazy baby boomer! I love it--you wouldn't noticed if you were flashed with their hard drive! LMAO! You'll get it...it just takes awhile but, I promise, you will! Just take a few lessons from that precious granddaughter!

Kris: Thanks! Don't question it if they tell you that's the way they prefer to be contacted! That is one of my 'interview' questions for both buyers and sellers--"How do you prefer to communicate?" Whatever they say is what I do. It's all about them!

Liz: It's all about instant gratification for some clients and you're right, if it cramps your style or theirs, then you don't want to endure a turbulent relationship! I completely understand!

Missy: YOU have GOT to be kidding me?! You can do that?! OH MY! I am so excited--please post a tutorial on that! PLEEZE!!!

Marcy: It's true here too--we are a financial capital and have A TON of young professionals who text all day and night!!

Will: Thank you so much--you make ME feel better! If you're just catching on and you were 'raised' on this stuff, perhaps I'm not toooo far behind!!

Lori: YOU are such a sweetie! He is recovering fairly well and is still my hero! I'm with your hubby on the 'instant' thing! I don't know why that is with that generation but, my boys are the same way--"We're going out tonight so, don't plan anything for dinner." "Oh, where are you going?" "Don't know yet, we haven't found out what everybody else is doing!" Imagine living your life like that--I'm obsessive compulsive and MUST have an agenda or I would have a heart attack if I didn't!!!

Charles: I recently read an article telling firms to be sure that they are focusing on those generations for their new hires! Smart man you are!

Rebecca: Thanks! NOW is definitely the time to absorb as much as you can so that when the market turns around, you'll be SUPER prepared!

Don: Thanks so much! You're like me, the baby boomer in-the-groove! Stay on top of it for your business plan for 2009!

UNUSUAL: 32? I wouldn't be calling you son--that's for sure!! I'm glad that you can relate to Gen-Y and hope you have a prosperous 2009!

Debe in Charlotte

Very appropriate blog...i'm still perplexed about what the heck "twitter" is and "widgets" and so many of these things. I am really trying to learn b/c I know the young adults out there communicate in this way.

I am trying to get with the times....... Still not figuring out Twitter...though I am on it...I just don't know why people subscribe to me. Well, one day I will get it....maybe.

DEC

2008

Debe this has been my target market for a while now. I was born before my time. I am so much like a Gen Y typical personality seems I've found my place and I finally fit in! Great post!

Great tips as usual. As the times change, we all have to update our techniques.

I am proud to say that I have embraced all of the technology you have mentioned and that is not easy for a 50something!!! I will continue to grab all of the opportunities offered in this new field.

Hi Debe,

Gen X is packs more punch in the home buying market right now. Gen Y will get there eventually. Yes, they are born with more innate technology, it was just there all the time. But some do not use the new technologies- especially Twitter, so if you want to be ahead of the tech generations, now is the time.

Jeff & Lisa: You'll get it, I promise! It just takes time.

Tim: I'm kind of there with you on the Twitter thing! I'm learning as I go. We'll get it one day!

Nannette: Swettie, you fit in ANYWHERE! Great that you are so progressive too--this could be a tough generation to crack if you're not 'in' with all of the new technology!

Greg: This is an everchanging business and we have to be everchanging also in order to stay afloat!

TLW: back at 'cha!

Caren: Me too and embrace it, I HAVE! With tenacity, we'll get a jump on the competition!

Rebecca: I agree--they're having children and moving on up!

Debe in Charlotte

Debe - Congrats on your well-earned gold star! I don't know how you find the time to do it all. It's all I can do to keep up with blogging and e-mail.

Debe,

Hi there! I just had to come back and let you know that today I did receive a call from a Gen Y-er! The best part is that thanks to all I have been doing on AR he found me on Google...and of course, I got super lucky and happened to get the call right away and was able to not only send him off the info he needed but texted him making sure he got it....WOW, he responded immediately to the text message..he really liked that!!! Also, he used the phraseology, the way to get hold of me immediately is via phone... No two ways about it...it is the wave of the future.

Lori Cofer, Beasley Realty

DEC

2008

Debe, what a GREAT post! I've been so busy reciprocating that I missed this. This is wonderful!!! Though I'm even before the whatever generation, I do all of the stuff - 'cause I'm a with-it grandma. Have to be able to communicate with granchildren, and the rest of the youngsters. ;-)

DEC

2008

Hi April! Thank you so much! As my hubby tells everyone, I NEVER sleep! One of these days, I'm going to create a device that I can narrate into when I'm in my car and tell it what photos/clip art to use along with the article, bring it home, plug it into my computer and VOILA! -have my post done! Won't that be nice?!

Lori! WOOHOO! Congratulations and SEE?! Isn't that coincidental that we were JUST talking about it and you were contacted by a Gen Y-er!? Best of luck with the sale.

Teri: Thanks--about that reciprocating too--I can't catch up! As for the texting, I'm working on getting up with that too! So, you're the hip granny, huh?! I think that's just FAB!

Debe in Charlotte

DEC

2008

Thank you! I am doing a few of these things already but now I know what else I need to do. I am a baby boomer 1964. =) I get a few pointers from my daughter, that is when I can slow her down long enough to show me. LOL =)

Welcome Dana! I went over to add you as an associate but, the system is confused again today! I'll catch you when it's back up. Thanks for reading and anything that I can do to help make your settling-in to AR pleasant, just let me know!

Thanks for the suggestions. I am just staarting to begin my foray into the new tech world. Keep the advice coming.

While Millennials will certainly welcome older adults appearing on social media like Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace, I think that being in these spaces is only the first step. First, many Millennials feel like Facebook and the social media spaces are their domain, and many do not like being 'friended' by older people because they feel like it is an invasion of privacy. It is great that you have been able to adopt these new technologies, and I think you will have great success in marketing to Gen Ys. However, if I could just offer some advice (as a Millennial myself) to not be very aggressive to generate leads and let Gen Ys find you (and they will because I doubt there are too many agents that engage Gen Y in the Web 2.0 space). Second, it is a mistake to say that Gen Ys want to feel important or that they need instant gratification. Instead older people must realize that Millennials are always looking to learn; this applies to everything from buying a house to applying for a job. When they try to accomplish tasks, in this case buying a house, they are not looking to feel important, but rather for a mentor. Gen Ys want a partner who they can trust, take them through the whole process, and make them smarter for the next time they are faced with a similar scenario. This is not entitlement, and older people would be wise to approach Gen Ys in a teacher/mentor role. I think you will get many more sales and references if your Millennial customers feel like equals during the whole process.

Georgia: Thanks and best of luck with ALL generations!

Brett: Great advice! I just closed on a home with buyer clients of mine who are Gen Y-ers. They told me when I stopped by to see their new first home (after closing) that they have already told many of their friends about me--here's where your message hits home--they said that they both felt that I was like an AUNT who they could ask anything 'to AND of' and that they loved that I could 'even text' right along with them! It was really funny because I remember when I asked them how they preferred to communicate when we first met, they asked me if I 'texted'! Of curse, I do! HA! I'll learn anything that my clients need me to learn and better assist (or mentor) them in their home purchase!

Thanks for commenting, Brett!

Debe in Charlotte

DEC

2008

This is a great list -- glad your post was in TWIR -- I had missed it. Seems I am always signing up for something -- just now joined the Red Hot Referral Group from facebook. I am only paying attention to a few though. Facebook, Twitter some, my blog and AR -- there is not enough time in the day or week to do it all. I text too -- love it -- and put on my card 'text/cell' with my number. I get texts from clients, agents, friends. It's a great way to be in touch, with little effort -- your point exactly!

I'm the biggest geek I know. LOL. And it amazes me, how many people of any age, can be so clueless. But in our own profession, it seems especially bad. But I don't complain. That just means there's more business for me.

All excellent points Debe! I don't do nearly enough Tweeting and Facebooking as I need to but I know those that do find them invaluable. I particularly love your points about pictures...it is SO important...even in our blogs!

Debe, Great points and all so true. I learned to text so that my son would communicate with me. I am still working on some of the other points. We have to continue to move forward if we want to be successful in the future.

It is true that they are our future business. I hope to be ready for them. With 70% of my business coming from my Internet presence and have the technology ready I should be OK.

Is it time to Twitter? There are a lot of opportunities to reach this market. Why can't you just pick up the phone and call them? Grrr. I understand. As a Gen-Xer please email me.

Believe it or not, I learned alot about this when getting my SRES designation. It's very interesting how different age group communicate in different ways and we really must be aware of it. What I find really surprising is how many of the new/younger agents in my office don't even have a basic website set up. For me, if I can't find someone online, it's as if they don't truly exist!

DEC

2008

Isn't that the truth! I have a neighbor friend who was born in 1987 and she doesn't answer her phone half the time and after I leave her a msg, she texts me back! I know that some of my clients and people that I have met the past 6 months have had over $1000 "surprise" texting bills from their teenagers as well. Looks like the cell phone companies went after the generation Y a long time ago! Phones are tailored for them these days.

Alexsandra: Absolutely! I did learn that I had to give up my flip phone in order to keep up with the texting--WAY too time consuming! I had a Palm (3 of them as a matter of fact) and got so frustrated with it that I went back to my little Supra key and a flip phone. Then I realized that I just couldn't make it with the flip in this texting society!! I too, love the quick text--otherwise, I can be long-winded and use up my time just 'chatting' all day!!

Lisa: HeeHee! I agree--more for those of us who do realize that we've GOT to get with the program and DO IT!

Diane: You are so right! The agents who don't use them--other than the front elevation photo--just amaze me! I'll tell you--I send my clients the MLS listing prior to making it active for their approval. Then, as soon as I make the listing active and add the media, I send it back for them for their final approval. If they don't like one of the eight photos that I always put up on MLS, then believe me, they let me know it!! My favorite room may have been the formal LR but, they like their guest bedroom decor better and want that one up instead and I do it!

Blog posts with no photos don't generally hold the attention of most readers--like you, I want to keep the readers so, I do use alot of photos and clip art to hold their attention!

Kathy: Same here with my boys! And, we do have to change with the times or they'll leave us behind!

Scott: I have to check out your website! 70% is HUGE! Are you a new agent? I have noticed that my web referrals have increased significantly this year but, I attribute it to my former clients and their family and friends deciding to stay-put so, the referral business is a little off this year.

Mike: I'm with you on the email! Funny but, I have found a program that I can sit at my computer and 'text' to some of my clients! Those phone keyboards are WAY too small for this 50-year old!!

Jenny: Me too! I can't believe that they don't have a site and don't even care to email! I worry that they'll be left in the dust in a couple of years if not sooner.

Sandy: I have a friend like that as well and it used to drive me crazy! I wanted to hear her voice--not read her message! I've since grown accustomed to it and embrace it because of my Gen Y clients who have taught me that it truly is a time-saver. The wireless companies have definitely been thinking outside the box for years. We learned early on with our boys that we HAD to go ahead and bite the bullet and pay for unlimited texting!

Debe in Charlotte

DEC

2008

3. Learn to use text--that was the hardest of all for me--I just didn't have the patience to use texting because the keyboard seemed so small to me. Practice with a family member for awhile and you'll soon be as speedy as others who use it every day!

Hi Debe,

Thanks for a good list. I'll never be speedy with text, but I'm working my way up to competent. :)

DEC

2008

THIS IS A FANTASTIC post, I myself is a generation Y real estate agent, I can totally related to the email and text culture. The way we look at it is that we don't need to chit chat too much as if you were on the telephone you have to be polite and sugar coat everything. When you are in text or email, you get to the point quick because of the limited fonts you can use! THANKS for posting!

DEC

2008

Hi Bruce! HA! I wouldn't necessarily call myself speedy either but, I'm hanging in there!!

Hi Eileen! Well, thank you so much! That is SO true--it cuts down on unnecessarily 'wasted' time but, others may argue that it's not as personable as they would like either. You just have to do what your clients demand and if it's texting, then I DO it!!

Happy New Year!

Debe in Charlotte

DEC

2008

Debe-How in the world did I miss this post of yours? It's a great source of valuable info, for sure! I've finally figured out twitter! I'm just beginning to use You tube. I'm getting there, slowly but surely:)

Hi Elizabeth! I hope you had a mahvalous Christmas dahling! I wondered what happened to you on with this post!! (just kidding!!) I've been working on Twitter but, don't spend enough time there--I love reading the 'full' post from AR and just tend to spend more time here. I DEFINITELY haven't been into the 'tube' yet but, REALLY need to do it! As a matter of fact, I had to buy a new scanner today as mine went out last night and I can't LIVE without one in my home office (I MUCH prefer to work at my home office!) so, Ray 'shopped' the scanner/printer/fax/copier for me and found the best deal at Circuit City. We headed over this evening and took a look at some video cameras so, his new mission is researching the best ones for me. Several have said that they like the Flip Camera but, I want to be sure I'm getting the right one so I can get into the 'tube' groove!

Debe in Charlotte

JUL

2009

Great post, thanks for sharing this with us. I agree with what you said, we all have to be very tech savy to survive in todays market. I would even expand on this a bit more in the fact that we MUST have a web presence. When that Gneration Yer goes to google on the net and types in your name, something had better come up or they might just be taking a walk. Debbie, I think you nailed it. Excelent Post!

Lawrence Bland

SEP

I love gen yer's and they love me. I tweet, text, facebook... and working on some Utube... I love the technology and I am always willing to be a mentor.

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Debe Maxwell - Search Charlotte Homes for Sale - Charlotte NC Neighborhoods

Charlotte, NC

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Debe Maxwell, CRS/Realtor®/BrokerBroker@TheCharlotteScoop.comPhone (704) 491-3310

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Debe Maxwell, CRS/Realtor®/Broker
Broker@TheCharlotteScoop.com
Phone (704) 491-3310