Using Technology for Social Networking

I recently spoke with our Stockton PMZ Residential Real Estate agents about how to leverage social networking to expand their sphere of influence. I was inspired by this article on Newsweek.com entitled, “Can Facebook Save the Real Estate Market?” by Daniel McGinn.

In the article, McGinn mentions stories of real estate professionals leveraging Facebook’s social networking tools to  ‘win friends and influence people.’ There are many other sites online that allow you to connect with others in similar ways. Sites such as: Twitter, ActiveRain, LinkedIn, GetSatisfaction, etc. (MySpace is left off of this list intentionally). Some common ways to leverage social networking sites are listed below:

• Status Updates
  Almost every successful social networking website has a way for it’s members to let their friends and followers know what they are up to RIGHT NOW.  Most also log a history of peoples past status updates, allowing you to take a personal look at someones current situation without feeling like you’re being intrusive.
• Bulletins and Sharing
  If your social networking site allows you to post a bulletin or share links or other media with friends, take advantage of that!  Post interesting articles you read.  If you maintain a blog, every time you write a new post you should consider getting the word out through your social network.  It adds credibility to your name.
• Groups and Networks
  Many social networking sites allow their users to break off into factions that share common interests.  Some sites call them Groups, some call them Networks.  At any rate, becoming an avid contributor to networks and/or groups that you belong to will also lend credibility to your name.
• Events
  Post your open houses, educational seminars, or other community events on your social networks.  Your followers will see these events and even if they can’t attend, they will still recognize you as being active in your community.

Always remember that content is king.  Providing unique insight and relevant information will not only rank you higher in search results, but will also show your sphere of influence how connected and knowledgeable you are.

It’s FREE advertising.