LinkedIn or Spaced Out…What is Social Networking? :: Atlanta Real Estate Forum

LinkedIn or Spaced Out…What is Social Networking?

Last week’s RETech South conference in Atlanta presented a panel session on social networking, “LinkedIn or Spaced Out.” The session gave an overview of social networking and gave some practical advice on getting started in the seemingly overwhelming realm of social networking. But don’t worry, social networking isn’t something that should be intimidating or that should take up much of your time.

According to the experts, social networking is simply a way for like-minded professionals to link together online, to share ideas and build relationships that will eventually generate business opportunities.

So how does the real estate industry fit? In real estate, people (both buyers and sellers) want to work with people that they know and trust. Social networking gives agents a way to open themselves up to consumers. With almost all home shoppers shopping online, having a profile online gives consumers a real idea of who you are, and with that, consumers feel that they can form a relationship with and knowledge of you before actually meeting you in person.

A common belief about social networking is that it is for teenagers only. But social networking can be beneficial in a professional setting because social networking helps establish contacts between and ideas about others and how you could work together.

The panelists’ suggestion for getting started is to create a LinkedIn profile first. This site, widely considered one of the most professional ones, allows you to create a profile with your resume - work experience, education and associations. Carol Flammer’s profile is good: www.linkedin.com/in/realestatepublicrelations. Members can share recommendations of each other as well as share ideas, advice, etc. Other good sites for getting started are Active Rain, Facebook and Twitter. Don’t try to do them all at once - just pick one or two at first.

Another suggestion was to keep your information authentic - include information on your profile that is original and creative. Add personal interests and hobbies, if you’re comfortable doing so. Of course, always be careful with what you put online as well as what you do in the offline world - because it will follow you online - if something is online, it will be seen!

So when you get a chance, sit down and explore some of these social networking sites - you may be surprised to see many of your colleagues and business partners are already there and reaping the benefits of social networking!

Join the Flammer Relations Team on Linked In

View Laura Everett’s profile

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