Social Media Networking: Is it increasing the public's trust of Realtors®?
*chants* "We must - we must - we must - we must increase their trust!"
In addition to self-promotion, are real estate agents also using social media networking sites such as Facebook and ActiveRain as a public relation excercise to reshape the general masses' perception of the average Realtor®? When people think of real estate agents, are they still thinking of the "Glenngary Glenn Ross" commission-hungry real estate agent or now seeing the hard working professional who has their best interest at heart?
Real Estate blogging and social media networking sites are voyeuristic snapshots into the lives of agents beyond the fixed smiles seen at open houses or listing presentations. The question now is whether or not potential buyers and sellers are relating to these individuals who have now exposed themselves to be simple mortals balancing both career and a personal life? The same individuals who are also sharing very strong opinions re other agents, clients and the market as a whole?
Will agent insights and reflections posted on social media sites help to diminish the negative stereotypes long associated with the real estate profession? Or will the same insights add fuel to the fire when the ugly side of in-house bickering over commissions, the unethical activities of other agents, etc. are also exposed? Are we headed in the right direction in successfully using social media marketing to build public trust while also being transparent?
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Good morning Andi, yes I believe that social media WILL enhance our image as agents. I think it really does put us in a better light and proves to the world that we are hard working, unlike the money hungry stereotype portrayed in movies. Great post.
Social Media is emerging as a very important part of any salepersons marketing strategy. I do think that if you are not engaged with social media then you are missing a huge opportunity.
It also can be used to reshape the image of many realtors in a very positive fashion. There are now new guidelines from many states department of real estate as to what you can do with that and blogs that every agent and broker must be aware of too.
Andi, I think it gives prospective clients a good feel about Realtors they are considering using. Although, I still really like referrals, but this can support those referrals. Michelle
I think in order to keep up in this competitive market, social media is the way to go!
Social media allows clients and the general public to gain an almost "personal" insight into your daily life. I guess it comforts people to know that realtors are just like them!
Jean, I think so too. I did wonder if the posts directed to members only (who are not all RE professionals) that I've seen here and on other sites, will also confirm what so many already believe as some of the dirty laundry is aired and hashed out as well.
Barbie, I think the guidelines will definitely grow concerning blogging. We do not have a lot of guidelines here in CA yet, but we definitely need it.
Michelle, referrals are definitely why I'm still in business. *bear hugs her Sphere of Influence*
Kimberley, I find that as of right now, it mostly seems to impress people that I've started blogging at all being the private person that I am. At some point , I suppose they will be more impressed with the content. :)
On the other side of the fence, as an agent I find it quite insightful and a lot of fun to get to know the personal side of other agents as well.
Andi - I think Social media is huge in popularity and is here to stay. Are there other ways? Sure. Are they as effective? No. Nice information!
Glengarry, Glen Ross . . . OMIGOSH -- those tags are GREAT! Social media is just another method to allow consumers, clients, customers to find out about an agent, lender, etc. There's a lot of "comparison" shoppers. When I have a client that engages EBA Portland, LLC it's because they feel confortable and confident in the services this office will provide them in their home search. How they came to that determination?!? Might have been from reading one of my blogs . . . or the comments other agents have made to a blog, or a comment I made, or my website, etc., and so on.
Nevin - the DRE announced 2-3 years ago that the next big social media thing would be Facebook and wah-la you can't get around Facebook young or old. I have Sunday school teachers asking me am I on Facebook. Then early last year the DRE forecasted Twitter and what do ya know? So I have no doubt its here to stay. So what did they announce as the next big thing for next year in terms of social media? What else, the super easy blog site Posterous that will be marketed more towards the general masses who may not have a particular specialty, but something to say. So lock in your Posterous names if you haven't done so already.
Carla - always glad to hear from my blogging mentor! Outside of referrals, which social media source would you say has been the most beneficial in increasing your business? Are you able to gage which source exactly is capturing the leads? I have yet to meet someone personally who has said that FB truly helped them to get clients.