Last year I attended a seminar where we were asked to quickly write down all the uses we could think of for a paper clip. They offered $20 to the person who could think of the most uses. The
winner had a list of 12 things he thought of. Then, they asked us to group together in teams of 4, and together make a list of uses for a paper clip. The winners each received $20. The winners had a list of 44 things! Of course the idea was to teach us the benefits of brainstorming. This lesson I took to heart and have used it in my business ever since.
Some time ago, a few agents in my office decided to set aside Tuesday mornings for a brainstorming session. I'm amazed at the ideas that made it to paper! I encourage you if you have never tried this to set one up and experience the results for yourself.
Speaking of brainstorming...I feel like that's what Active Rain does for me on a daily basis. To me, it's the encyclopedia of real estate compiled by the best minds in the industry. I am so grateful to be a part of it!
I am also excited to have the next couple of weeks to work on my 2009 plans. This year, I'm not traveling or attending any family events. My family spent Thanksgiving together, and we went our separate ways for Christmas. So, while the rest of you are cooking turkeys, opening presents, and waiting in airport terminals I will be sitting here at my desk planning and arranging my 2009 schedule.
There are several new items I plan to implement to increase my business. Going back to the basics and farming and doing newsletters is one. Creating time blocks for prospecting is another. What I would like to know is:
How was your 2008? Were there specific things that you added in 2008 that you had not done before that increased your business? (If 2008 is not a good year to compare to, then use another year.)
I believe that no matter where you live in the good ole' USA, the Internet is the predominant force in marketing and produces the most results. If you agree with this, then:
What internet site do you feel generated the most response for you in 2008?What do you plan to do different in 2009 in regards to your Internet presence?
What new ideas do you plan to use to not only make it through 2009, but to excel in spite of the 'recession' ?
and finally...
What did you try consistently in 2008 that did NOT produce the desired results, and that you will be deleting from your plan for 2009?
Are you reading this and thinking that you have put off writing your own business plan, and the end of the year is upon us? There's still time! Just remember "People don't plan to fail, they fail to plan! " Take some time for yourself and let's do it together!
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