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Twitter - Competitive Intelligence Gathering Program

As part of my getting into Twitter I installed TweetDeck and added a few people to my follow list (now at around 67 people). A few of the people that I've added are strong REALTORS in markets that we run teams or offices in including Seattle, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Long Beach California. Many of those same competitors are also following me as well. What I've started to notice on Twitter is that many of the agents on Twitter especially those who are more leading edge are also Twittering about what they are doing to grow their business models out.

Keep in mind that IMHO especially when it comes to the real estate market in major metros what one agent does in his/her marketing plan will likely not impact the marketplan or success of another agent in that marketplace measurably, so to some extent there isn't a lot of risk in Twittering. However by participating in the Twitter discussion either as a lurker (following a bunch of peoople and not Twittering yourself) or what will more likely happen, Twittering for the purposes of being a member of the community at large, you'll likely be able to get ideas or even brainstorms with other Twitter participants.

I can tell you that in the last 72 hours I've learned a bunch about Twitter that I never knew and I'm now modifying parts of our business model to include some ideas I've seen Twittered about by agents around the country.

So if you haven't added Twitter to your competitive intelligence gathering efforts you'll want to start soon, before your competitors beat you to it.

All the Best,

Glenn Sanford
--
Founder / CEO
Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/ceoglenn

BuyerTours Realty LLC & Working The Magic LLC

Check out our Bellingham Real Estate Website and/or

Our Real Estate SEO Blog.

Posted by Glenn Sanford on 12/27/2008 06:37 PM

Comments (14)

Twitter in the Technology and Tools Channel

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Post is included in group: Marketing 101

14 Comments on Twitter - Competitive Intelligence Gathering Program

DEC

Hmm. That's a very interesting angle. Thanks Glenn. I need to get registered on Twitter.

I'm still evaluating Twitter trying to find the "overwhelming logic" for devoting precious time to tweeting. You've given some important information for which I thank you. But...did you notice that I got this information on ActiveRain?

Glen, I have been meaning to join twitter, and just have not done so yet. Guess I should stop dragging my feet!

Richard... I did post this to ActiveRain because it wouldn't fit in 140 characters of less :) Seriously though there are lots of resources out there for gathering intelligence however I'm providing my Ahas from someone who is just now discovering Twitter for the first time.

All the Best,

Glenn Sanford

Glenn - IMHO there is so much potential for us agents on Twitter, as well as for other businesses. Many are still feeling their way and some a quickly finding success. ~Rita

I am just learning about twitter myself and enjoy these posts as to increase my twitter IQ on a fast track.

Okay, so I just joined Twitter. I've included you on follow list. This should be fun.............

Glenn: I am sorry, but I have just not seen any reason compelling enough for me to join Twitter. I mean... what's the point ? It sounds like it is one big chat room for folks who seem to have a lot of time on their hands. Anyway... no good reason to join = not joining. But... enjoy your Tweeting. If it works for you... Cool !

Rita: I'm amazed at the amount of conversation going on on Twitter. Just like all other forms of marketing its about building an audience. It seems that networking with other REALTORS should increase referral business.

Eileen: Twitter is a community so jump and and see if its right for you.

Vickie: Thanks for the follow. I'm following you as well.

Karen: No worries. If what you are doing works for you then that's great. It seems that you have the blogging side covered so its all good. You could however create a Twitter ID, have your A/R posts automatically post to Twitter and now you've got a new audience and you haven't had to do a lot to generate it. Leverage the content you are already generating.

DEC

Glenn... I love Twitter, and 'intellegence gathering' is a great way to put it. We have a rather large group that uses it including staff and clients. For our company use, I also like yammer.com... It's a great way to keep the larger group up to date with blog posts, website updates, and to 'chime in' with attaboys and suggestions. Our regional team is spread out... Washington and Oregon. It's a great way for the Sales and Marketing team to keep in touch with each other and to inform those inside the office what's going on in the field. Both are indispensible team tools.

DEC

Just came across this "quickstart" guide to using twitter from the CEO of Zappos that I found pretty interesting that goes along with some of what you're saying here Glenn. I can say I had some of the same hesitant feelings towards joining the network as others but now that I've have been twittering for a few days I am beginning to really see some value.

Rene: We love Ticor in Portland... You guys Rock.

Gabe: I'll check out the Quickstart... See you tomorrow morning.

JAN

Glenn, That's something I admit I have not thought of before. I joined Twitter but didn't really know the point...I mean, who cares that I am working on a closing or eating taco bell? lol

JAN

Glenn, Great points. I put my listings or open houses on Twitter. I tweet but love the information that is passed around on Twitter. I don't see your user name, but you can follow me @agentaudrey and I will return the favor.

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