Imagine the Internet is a never-ending cocktail party and the guest list includes nearly every prospective client and possible referral partner in your region. Now imagine it’s well known that this cocktail party is where nearly 90 percent of all real-estate transactions begin. Now imagine that this cocktail party is taking place right across the street and welcomes you to attend in your most comfortable pair of pajamas. Now imagine not making the effort to show up and make some new contacts, all while complaining that business ain’t what it used to be.

Selling anything requires getting in front of potential clients. And social-media sites offer a relatively simple means of accessing thousands of prospects unattainable through traditional efforts.

A few things to think about …

1^st-Time Homebuyers: Younger buyers are even more likely to rely on the advice and opinions of their online network of friends, family, followers, and connections when making a big decision. And there’s few bigger than buying a home. Having a social-media strategy means you’re more likely to have made a connection with someone’s aunt, uncle, cousin, mother, or brother along the way. And that aunt or uncle, mother or brother is then more likely to recommend your services.

Previous Clients: Inviting your previous clients to become part of your social network means building a larger online community. And every contact you make online means more exposure, as you also become part of their community of friends, family, and neighbors. After you’ve setup your online profiles, invite your previous clients to join your network and don’t be surprised if they end up doing some of your marketing for you.

Above and Beyond: Once you’ve invited your friends, family, previous clients, and the rest of your personal network, it’s time to reach out beyond the people you regularly contact. Luckily, social media sites make it easier than ever to get back in touch with old friends, former co-workers, and anyone else in your community that might be interested in buying or selling a home. Sending a friend request on Facebook is a lot less awkward than making a phone call out of the blue. And after you’ve established a network online, some of those old acquaintances may lead to new business.

More social-media tips from The Ibis Network here, here, here, here, and here.

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Josh Millar / The Ibis Network / www.theibisnetwork.com

To learn more about the Ibis Network’s Professional Networking Suite for Realtors and Mortgage Professionals which features these valuable marketing tools:

* Your own Real-Estate or Mortgage blog updated daily with original content
* Monthly e-newsletter ready to send to your contact list
* Social Media set-up on the 8 major networking sites
* Search Engine Optimization (SEO) of your business website

Visit: http://www.theibisnetwork.com/networkingsuite.html

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