Building your ecosystem as a real estate professional is vitally important to your success. Word-of-mouth referrals are one of the most powerful tools at your disposal, whether you’re an agent, an attorney, or a closing officer. 

Since the pandemic, the ways in which people are able to meet and forge relationships have changed dramatically. 

While in-person events are still a fabulous way to have fun and grow your reach, it’s crucial to take advantage of the latest digital opportunities as well. Here are our top networking tips for networking in the new normal. 

Socially Engaging 

If you don’t already have a LinkedIn profile, you’re missing out on a valuable chance to generate leads. It may not be as hip as some of the other social media platforms, but this one is geared towards business over current trends and celebrities. 

It all starts with your profile. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and LinkedIn gives you two chances to display yourself and your agency in a profile pic and a banner at the top. You don’t necessarily have to get a professional headshot taken, but potential clients are more attracted to a crisp picture where you look confident and competent. 

Remember to smile, wear something flattering and business-appropriate, and go with solid colors for your background over a busy pattern. Ask your friends and co-workers to help you select the best picture, and then use this headshot consistently in your personal branding and social media.

LinkedIn is like your online resume, so make sure that you keep your profile up to date. The platform’s own studies show that profiles that feature volunteer work or other community involvement perform up to six times better. 

• For more tips on how to optimize your LinkedIn profile, watch our webinar titled “LinkedIn Best Practices – Upping Your LinkedIn Game” (access code: nbzBy&c5).

Facebook remains an excellent method for networking with potential clients. It can also be an excellent way to promote yourself and your business with its targeted paid ad campaigns and constantly improving analytics reports.  

Social media for real estate professionals is evolving rapidly but it’s definitely here to stay. It’s a cost-effective and relatively inexpensive method for networking and generating revenue, especially when it comes to reaching a younger demographic.

You might have heard the term “content marketing,” which is just another way of building your online presence and growing your network. 

Posting and sharing engaging and informative content is the number one path to boosting your influence and gaining new followers, which translates into more clients and more money.

Hosting or appearing as a guest on a podcast is also a brilliant way to create content while meeting new people online or in person. Listen to real estate-related podcast offerings and find the ones that you enjoy most. 

Almost every podcast advertises a way to reach out to the producer if you have ideas or recommendations — start the conversation and see where it takes you, you may even be inspired to create your own show.

Real-World Guidance

Establishing your presence online can give you more credibility and help you cultivate a glowing reputation as an innovative real estate pro. 

However, there are still plenty of beneficial opportunities for networking face-to-face in the real world as well. If you’re somewhat introverted or new to the networking game, the Harvard Business Review has some indispensable tips that can help you overcome any feelings of awkwardness, allow yourself to relax, and maybe even have fun.  

Most areas have at least one general networking group that meets monthly for lunch or drinks, if not several, and real estate professionals typically have their own. 

There are always excellent networking prospects at events sponsored by your local Chamber of Commerce, business journals, and civic organizations.

Volunteering for worthy local causes helps you meet people and form bonds while also benefiting your community as a whole. Get to know kind-hearted and friendly individuals that could potentially be great clients while doing your part to make the world a better place.

The most important thing to remember when you want to expand your network is to be prepared. Have business cards ready and make sure your phone is fully charged. Ensure that you’re well-rested, you look and feel your best, and you’re as relaxed and confident as possible.

Everyone needs a place to live, and everyone knows someone who really needs a top real estate agent. By leveraging your connections online and in the real world, you can be there to provide guidance and gain a client for life. 

Forming Partnerships

In the real estate industry, who you know is everything, and it’s crucial to have a stellar reputation for efficiency, honesty, and integrity. 

Partnering with other exceptional professionals will help you provide the best possible experience for your customers. At Landtrust Title Services, we offer a full spectrum of services for agents, attorneys, buyers, and sellers.
We can help you make the connections you need to succeed — reach out today to see how!