When it comes to being a successful real estate agent, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of competition agents are faced with daily. We are competing with thousands of agents for the same deals, clients and five-star reviews. And any time we experience a super “hot” market, a whole new surge of Realtors enters the real estate industry, many of them hungry and willing to do whatever it takes for those clients.
The competition is fierce, so your approach to standing out in the crowd needs to be unique and consistent.
You’re probably wondering, is this person really an “influencer” in the real estate industry? Although I am not on Million Dollar Listing, and I don’t have the infamous blue check next to my name on Instagram, my online presence, involvement in the real estate industry and recent introduction to public speaking have allowed me to further my career in a short period of time.
That being said, I am going to share my secrets to becoming an influencer in your real estate market.
1. Having a social media/online presence is a must
Having an online presence (especially on social media) in today’s market is a requirement. Considering almost everyone today has either a social media profile of some kind and/or a smart phone, having a presence online is not negotiable when it comes to being an influencer in your market.
Whether you are more of a Facebook user, an Instagram user (my personal favorite) or prefer LinkedIn, social media is an increasingly growing platform, with over 2.34 billion users worldwide.
Pick a social media platform to focus building your brand with, and really work it. Be consistent with your posts, build a following and share behind-the-scenes moments in your business with a sprinkle of personal content mixed in.
2. Network, network, network
Getting out in your community and having face time with other people in your area is key in building your brand and becoming an influencer in your market.
Networking events are easily searchable online, and Facebook even has a networking section under the “events” tab in your profile.
Whether it’s a small gathering at a wine bar or a large art gallery opening, make your presence known, and don’t be afraid to make conversation with the other attendees. They are there to meet you too!
3. Get involved on a local, state and national level
How can you have a voice in your real estate industry if you are not actively involved in it? I personally started with my local YPN (Young Professional Network) Committee, and soon after became YPN chair, elected onto the board of directors and three other committees on my local board.
I have recently become involved with YPN on the state and national levels as well. Should you not know where to start and what committees may be the best fit for you, contact your broker or the president of your local board to gather more information on what committees would be the most interesting for you.
Becoming an influencer in your market means having a voice, and having that voice comes from being actively involved in the industry.
Take risks! You don’t have to be a $50 million producer to build your brand and become an influencer in your real estate market. Get online, get involved and get out there.
Rebecca Donatelli is a Realtor and team lead with The Rebecca Donatelli Team at McDowell Homes Real Estate Services in Cleveland, Ohio. Follow her on Facebook or Instagram.
