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Is this really Influence?

By Mike Mueller

Education & Training with Tech and Social Media Consultant

October 29, 2010 03:47 AM

Warning: Personal Opinions may be expressed here…

What probably sounded like a great idea to start – highlighting the real estate industries most influential person, seems to have gone the way of FastCompany’s Influence Project.

According to Inman’s Website (http://www.inman.com/news/2010/10/27/peoples-choice-real-estates-most-influential)

“Inman News wants you to pick one individual who you think has made an impact on the real estate industry.”

“The list recognizes those whose voices and actions have the power to change the industry. Among them are individuals who embody strength, common sense, innovation, ingenuity, perseverance and progress. They include the industry’s brain trust and dealmakers, and those outside the industry who impact the business of buying and selling home.”

While I am deeply honored to be included on the list, misspelling aside, I have an personal issue with the “influence” part. (I guess if you are reading this Weareconnected)

Is an Influencer someone who has a direct impact on the industry or individual in the way they think, act or do?

Or is an Influencer someone who somehow entices many others to “Vote For Me”?

Just my personal opinion but I believe it’s the first one.

So please… save your personal rallying an w00ting to get more votes for you. That’s not what social media is all about anyway is it? If you have to vote for someone – take a huge step back from yourself, look at the nominees and think. I’ll bet you come back with what I think is the most influential person in real estate, Joe Ferrara.