Referrals in The Rain - 4 tips to improve social networking

Active Rain has become a hub of social networking in the real estate industry. As it's membership continues to grow, each day new bloggers join it's ranks. The community is a great way to stay up to date on current issues, exchange ideas and allow your voice to be heard. For many who enter the community, it is also a fine way to acquire and cultivate leads.

Lasting relationships are formed when there is give and take. Human nature lends itself to the taking part with no problem whatsoever. It is the giving that seems to require constant effort and attention. Here are a few tips on how to make AR work for you and benefit your peers.

1. Be observant - Pay attention not only to what others say, but also what it is that they do. How does their business work? Who is their ideal client? How can you help send referrals their way?

2. Look for opportunities to assist others - Don't just look to randomly send a "lead" to someone. Be aware of what their interests are. If you come across an article that directly relates to another AR member, send it to them. If you hear of an opportunity they should look into, let them know.

3. Refer cautiously - Only refer clients to people that you would not hesitate to do business with yourself. Long time AR members and those who take an active share in the community are more likely to be worthy of a referral. Remember, if you refer a client to someone, how they treat that client affects your reputation as well.

4. Send qualified leads - The same principle in point 3 applies here. If you would not want this client then don't send them to a fellow AR member. If you come across a lead that you do not know personally be sure to specify that this person came your way but you can not vouch for them. That allows your fellow community member to pursue the lead if they wish, but not with blind trust that you have put your stamp of approval on them.

Use common courtesy. Plenty of AR members are noted as regular "givers". Such individuals usually see their generosity rewarded in some form or fashion. Line yourself up as a consistent "taker" and the well is certain to run dry.