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Blog Posts Tips & Prompts for Newbies to ActiveRain

By
Industry Observer 0506509

Welcome to ActiveRain! I hope you enjoy your experience here on this platform and that your business prospers. Not sure how to start or what to write about? Here are some prompts that may be helpful:

 

 

  • How did you get started in business?
  • Where do you live and work?
  • What type of business do you run (mortgage, residential, commercial)?
  • What's your talent (Home inspections, Appraisals, Staging, Photography)?
  • Are you a solo agent or do you work with a Team?
  • How has your background helped you to launch your career?
  • How long have you been in the business?
  • How is your market?
  • What got you motivated to join ActiveRain?
  • Do you know how to tag AR Members by using the @ function?
  • How can you use topics like motivation, education, or inspiration?
  • Are you familiar with Groups on ActiveRain?
  • Do you know about weekly Tuesday Tips by Bill Spear from Liz and Bill Spear
  • Do you know there are great opportunities to get to know people through weekly Zoom Sessions? Watch for posts from George Souto.
  • Do you know there are FUN groups started by Anna "Banana" Kruchten like from the BananaTudes Group?
  • Can you write a blog post on Motivation, Inspiration, Education?
  • Do you want to know how to connect with others from your local area?
  • Did you know there are monthly ActiveRain Challenges?
  • Do you want to build your network by referrals?


 

On ActiveRain you're never alone. When someone from ActiveRain reads and leaves a comment, that is your opportunity to get to know your new acquaintances and friends on ActiveRain. Best wishes on your Blogging experiences. May you prosper and get to know fun people on ActiveRain. We are all continuously learning from each other! Thanks for joining!!!

 

Posted by

Patricia Feager

Comments(17)

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Laura Cerrano
Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island - Locust Valley, NY
Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher

There’s a lot of prompts out there and ways to get ideas online if you really have trouble, but you can just randomly get ideas out of your head and don’t think about it too hard. Just get them out.

Jun 12, 2025 11:22 PM
Patricia Feager

Laura Cerrano - Free flowing thoughts can turn into poetry! Or they can become words worth remembering. 

Happy Friday!

Jun 13, 2025 05:45 AM
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Patricia - your blogging brainstorming suggestions are helpful.  It can be difficult for some, maybe many, to start.  Or continue.  Finding what works for each of us in any form of expression seems to be an ongoing journey.  

Jun 13, 2025 03:53 AM
Patricia Feager

Michael Jacobs - While starting something new can be tempting, sometimes comparisons to what we see that others have written can be intimidating. Writing from the heart and trying not to imitate may be exactly what a Newbie needs and a reader wants!

Happy Friday!

Jun 13, 2025 05:49 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Good morning, Patricia... your reminder about starting a conversation with other people in the Rain via comments is spot-on. Sadly, I'm seeing less and less of it here in the Rain.

Jun 13, 2025 04:24 AM
Patricia Feager

Nina Hollander, Broker - We need more members like you. My mother told me long ago, when someone gives you something, even if it's just a smile, give one back! If you read a letter or a note from someone, acknowledge them and write back. Ignoring the obvious is rude. 

Jun 13, 2025 06:11 AM
Patricia Feager

Nina Hollander, Broker - We all need a little help when getting started. Making a habit of something good and connecting with others creates friendships in the AR Community.

Happy Friday!

Jun 13, 2025 05:50 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker

Patricia Feager I think there are people who will never get it. And I stopped communicating with people who never respond or communicate back. It's a two-way street. If they don't get it, then tant pis, as the French would say.

Jun 13, 2025 07:59 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker

Patricia Feager I'm not talking about the newbies... I'm referring to those people who have been in the Rain for a while and then some and who post daily who never acknowledge a comment on their posts or ever return the compliment of a comment. It seems like there are more and more of these kinds of people in the Rain.

Jun 13, 2025 06:01 AM
Patricia Feager

Nina Hollander, Broker - "tant pis," is a good word! 

Jun 15, 2025 02:29 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Patricia. As I read your post this morning I might have to use some of my points in this month's challenge to create an imaginary Active Rain where some of my past followers can be active here again. Like Nina Hollander, Broker, other than old timers I am seeing less participation. May your post prompt more. Enjoy your day.

Jun 13, 2025 04:53 AM
Patricia Feager

Wayne Martin - Ah! A point. Carl Jung would say the point, or the dot is the symbol of a mysterious creative center in nature." I think you're up to something good for this month's challenge! The point is to get started - it's like a seed that is planted in the soul and needs to flourish.

Happy Friday!

Jun 13, 2025 05:56 AM
Kat Palmiotti
eXp Commercial, Referral Divison - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

Excellent post about ActiveRain and things to keep in mind!

And good morning!

Jun 13, 2025 05:06 AM
Patricia Feager

Kat Palmiotti - Speaking of the mind, I'm reminded by the words sung by Maria, the main character in Sound of Music --- Doe-Re-Mi: when you read, you begin with A B C. 

Suddenly, the imagination gives rise from feeling stuck or sleepy to feeling good and merry!

Good morning! Happy Friday, the 13th!!!

Jun 13, 2025 06:06 AM
Lew Corcoran
Better Living Real Estate, LLC - East Bridgewater, MA
Expert guidance. Exceptional results.

Thanks so much for sharing this helpful post, Patricia Feager. I really appreciate the practical tips and warm encouragement you provide for the newbies. It’s great to see a platform that promotes connection and growth. Thank you for making that so clear! 😊

Jun 13, 2025 02:08 PM
Patricia Feager

Lew Corcoran - I would love to help new people on ActiveRain to get started on their blogs without being afraid. Everybody has their own stories. In real estate, there is a lot we share in common and there is a lot to learn! When the market and the economy shifts, people have to learn how to adapt. The best part of this industry is having camaraderie while still having fun. There is always room for more members on ActiveRain! As you say, this is "a platform that promotes connection and growth! No matter where we live and work, there's always something unique and interesting about each and everyone. 

As for me and you, we get by with a little or a lot from our AR friends!

Jun 13, 2025 03:11 PM
Anna "Banana" Kruchten
Retired Broker/Owner - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

Patricia it was so good to see your very helpful post for people that are new to AR.  You've given them a ton of ideas to consider.  And you're so right on when you say - they are never alone.  They can reach out to any of the Ambassadors for more info when needed. And of course we'd love them to join the BananaTUDES group!   We have major tude indeed, don't we 😊  All aboard the Tude Jet!

Jun 13, 2025 02:59 PM
Patricia Feager

Anna "Banana" Kruchten - I remember what it was like when I started. The first time I received a comment late at night, it felt as though a star fell out of the sky and there was writing inside my comment box from a person I did not know. That person was Karen Stone. I was so surprised because I did not know this person, but I live close to Fort Worth, where Karen was from. Karen was very encouraging, and I'd like to give back to other Newbies a shot at feeling connected here on ActiveRain. We can all benefit when we help own another. This isn't an exclusive club. One size fits all! There are enough stories in the Real Estate industry to keep us thriving. Many people, like yourself have been members since its early beginnings. As time went by, I got more comfortable because people started reading my stories and leaving comments. No matter what day or time I wrote, there were people writing their own stories and many leaving comments for me. Those comments were very encouraging. Like you, Anna, it's amazing how many people we actually met in person that we probably never would have known, if it wasn't for ActiveRain. I hope we can all reach out to Newbies and help them on their journey. 

Jun 13, 2025 03:17 PM
Patricia Feager

As an Ambassador, Anna "Banana" Kruchten you are such a big part of our lives here on AR. Always approachable, experienced, full of ideas, and fun to be around with here on ActiveRain!

Jun 13, 2025 03:21 PM
Anna "Banana" Kruchten

Thanks Patricia for your kind words!  Much appreciated! And I so remember Karen Stone and miss her.  It's been a long time now.  I'll tell you a story about her and how she helped me out.  I never got a chance to meet her in person.  Enjoy your weekend!

Jun 13, 2025 03:43 PM
Patricia Feager

Anna "Banana" Kruchten - You're very welcome. One day soon, I would love to hear about your story and how Karen helped you out. This gives me an idea for a future AR Challenge!!!

Enjoy your weekend. Be safe. Pray for peace. Stay positive.

Jun 13, 2025 05:00 PM
George Souto
George Souto NMLS #65149 - Middletown, CT
Your Connecticut Mortgage Expert

Patricia all those are all really good blog topic suggestions.

Jun 13, 2025 04:45 PM
Patricia Feager

George Souto - your kindness will never be forgotten. I feel like you are a good friend to many and a devoted husband too. 

Jun 13, 2025 05:01 PM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Hi Patricia- one of the most difficult things when you start your journey here is...there are so many things to learn. What do you write about? What are points?  What are groups? And the list is long. Your post is helpful in part because it lets new members know that the questions they have are not unusual. We've all had them. 

Jun 13, 2025 06:30 PM
Patricia Feager

Kathy Streib - There really are many things to learn. I can understand why new members hold back - they need more information. It is important to know what is expected and are there guidelines and rules for blogging. Many of our rules comes directly from our Broker, Association, and MLS Rules. ActiveRain also has guidelines. The Ambassadors here on ActiveRain are very important and can provide information. In addition, much help comes from Mortgage Lenders, Home Inspectors, Stagers, and Professional Photographers. This is a platform where help is just click away. All you have to do is ask. There are many topics of interest that can be reviewed and written followed by discussions within remarks. Senior members on AR are very important to the success of new and future members. And they are all very helpful. 

Jun 13, 2025 06:46 PM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good evening Patricia,

Congratulations on a well deserved featured post! What a help to newbies to get started!

Jun 13, 2025 06:51 PM
Patricia Feager

Dorie Dillard Austin TX - we were all created to help one another. 

Thank you, for the recognition. But you deserve thanks too!

Jun 13, 2025 06:55 PM
Debra Leisek
Bay Realty,Inc Homer Alaska - Homer, AK

Wonderful post to help people get started on first time blogs. I remember how that felt. I would read all the posts and not even comment for the longest time. Your ideas and tips are so helpful!  I remember Karen Stone too..  

Also you are right about never being alone in the rain.... all you have to do is ask for help and you will get all the help you could ever hope for! 

Happy Friday the 13th Patricia Feager 

Jun 14, 2025 01:31 AM
Patricia Feager

Thanks, Debra Leisek - We all started at one time and clearly remember what it was like just getting started. I'm sure we can all find ways to be more aware of new members to our platform and how to be helpful. Being in different time zones is never a problem. 

You've been great! Thank you. 

Jun 14, 2025 12:24 PM
Leanne Smith
Dirt Road Real Estate - Golden Valley, AZ
The Grit and Gratitude Agent

Another prompt "Is on the Radio." The lyrics for many songs are a springboard for a blog posting. 

Jun 14, 2025 08:19 AM
Patricia Feager

Hi Leanne Smith - That a new one on me! I only listen to one station in my car - classical music. You make a good point. Inspiration comes from many different places!

Jun 14, 2025 12:26 PM
Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400
The Top Team @ Charles Rutenberg Realty 255 Executive Dr, Plainview NY 11803 - Plainview, NY
Long Island Condo and Home Specialists

Patricia, You captured something so true as it can feel overwhelming at the beginning. There’s a lot to take in, and it’s easy to wonder if you're the only one feeling a little lost. It's a great reminder that we all start somewhere. However there are those that have been here for years but don't really read what they are commenting on!

Jun 14, 2025 11:38 AM
Patricia Feager

Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400 - Let's be welcoming to Newbies and continue to support one another. For as long as I can remember, you have been a great supporter. I can't think of anyone who doesn't know your names!

Jun 14, 2025 12:29 PM
Liz and Bill Spear
Transaction Alliance 513.520.5305 www.WarrenCountyOhioRealEstate.com - Mason, OH
Transaction Alliance Cincinnati & Dayton suburbs

I've loved the Pay It Forward culture of this community.  I've had a lot shared with me, and try to return the favor.  I don't interact directly as much as I did in the early days.  Part of it is less time, part of it is learning certain members and I might not be totally compatible, so I leave them on their own island and they on mine, and that's okay.  Ideas for blogging are always out there once we're tuned in to receive :)

Jun 15, 2025 05:11 AM
Patricia Feager

Liz and Bill Spear 

Bill, I understand where you're coming from. Plus, you are very busy these days. Just know that I always appreciate you giving us your time with good information. 

Jun 16, 2025 03:46 PM
Jan Green - Scottsdale, AZ
Value Added Service, 602-620-2699 - Scottsdale, AZ
HomeSmart Elite Group, REALTOR®, EcoBroker, GREEN

Great post Patricia!   It can seem daunting to write a blog post with so many of us on thi site that have been doing it for years.  I remember my first post.   Trying to keep my thoughts organized, much less typing what made sense, was a real challenge! I hope many new bloggers see your post! 

Jun 16, 2025 09:49 AM
Patricia Feager

Jan Green - Scottsdale, AZ - We all come from different places and life experiences. Isn't it interesting, we discover we have more in common than we thought! For a Newbie, putting yourself out there, in public is not as easy as it looks. Once people are comfortable and have a better understanding about AR it may be easier to understand a little more. 

Although you and I never met, I still feel like I've known you for a long time! I wouldn't be surprised if most everyone feels the same way. 

Jun 16, 2025 04:12 PM
Jan Green - Scottsdale, AZ

Very true Patricia Feager !  I feel the same way.  Hugs!

Jun 16, 2025 05:14 PM
Lise Howe
Keller Williams Capital Properties - Washington, DC
Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC

This is a great collection of tips for newbies to Active rain - and I am sure that people will be grateful for all the work that you put in to this list

Jun 16, 2025 06:13 PM
Patricia Feager

Lise Howe - I was happy to do this. I know what it was like getting started. It was like being introduced to a chess game I couldn't understand. 

Your words touched me.

Thank you. 

Jun 16, 2025 06:20 PM
Patricia Feager
Flower Mound, TX
Semi Retired Real Estate Agent

ActiveRain Member Support - I received a comment from someone I don't know. When I search for this person via AR, I can't find anything in the Search. 

Below is my link with the comment dated 6/17/25 at 10:25 PM

Geric Pelau

KSL - Demopolis, ALAspiring SEO Specialist. With track record.

Blog Posts Tips & Prompts for Newbies to ActiveRain

Jun 17, 2025 10:39 PM
ActiveRain Member Support

Account removed for spamming.

Jun 18, 2025 03:59 AM