Your Network Is Your Net Worth
It's not what you know, but who you know!
Interconnected
Every definition that I have seen about networking involves the word "interconnected". For the purpose of our discussion, the word would be used in conjunction with people. To be interconnected with people, you have to develop a relationship of some sort...and that is where it starts!
No Expectations
One of the key concepts to me, is to build the relationship for the sake of the relationship. If you only want to develop a relationship to get something in return, you are probably not going to be very successful at networking. I enjoy giving a referral to someone because they are good at what they do. They treat people with respect. They are reliable and I can trust they will take care of my client or friend. I have no expectations of getting anything in return except maybe a thank you for the business.
My most successful referrals have come from people that I least expected. It's not part of my personality to actively seek out referral business. Most would say that is probably a mistake. I would rather develop a true and lasting relationship with someone and have them determine on their own that they would like to refer business to me.
Here is an example...
Through my conversations with a client, I found out she enjoys getting out for a morning walk. So we became walking mates! At this point in time, I had already sold her a second house - and she moved much closer to me in West Sedona. She took her first home and rented it out as a short term rental. She also enjoys going to garage or estate sales. To make a long story short, my client recommended me to one of her rental clients, a person who was having a garage sale to sell their home, and a couple of neighbors. At least five to six sales I can attribute directly to this one person!
My Network
My network consists of past clients, service personnel, other real estate related business, as well as real estate agents, friends, neighbors and family. I have received referrals from all these categories. More importantly, I connect all of these people to each other.
I will make time for anyone who seeks my help, never looking for anything in return. BUT, I am always delighted when someone pays me that highest compliment by sending a referral my way.
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