Today, I’m introducing a guest blogger, Valari Jackson, a gifted coach and friend of mine. Since she teaches how to use social media, I’ve asked her to share her insights on the good, the bad, and the ugly. Here’s her first of three rules.

I’ve all been there. The room is filled with the sounds of several intriguing conversations and the scent of freshly baked hors d’oeuvres and yummy desserts. Everything from the latest stock quotes to the most effective way to keep a lawn green is being debated. What a wonderful way to unwind from the grueling day of under- valued offers, overly picky buyers, and the 6 month long short sale transaction. Will we ever get a response from the bank? Oh well, you decide to relax into a decently aromatic glass of wine and then the door opens.

Woops… It’s him again. Who invited him this time? You try to make a quick exit and notice that the doorway is filled with the people who, like you, don’t care that he sells insurance. You don’t need a policy review, flood insurance or long term care. How can you avoid that same impression?

Perception is Reality

The story above illustrates how we can be perceived on social media sites when our sole purpose is to get business. Sure, that is the ultimate prize but let’s not forget that social networks are designed for just that-socializing. Although the characteristics of the many different sites are as vastly contrasted as the people who use them, the main goal should be clear-allowing people to get to know who you are and what you value. No one really cares that you have a new listing that is $40,000 under assessed value, if they don’t first know who you and that you are someone they can trust.

Find Opportunities for a Genuine Exchange

The best use of any networking setting business or otherwise is to find opportunities to have a genuine exchange. Sharing the whole you and not just the real estate you will foster trust. Be discreet however. If you are having relationship and financial concerns this is certainly not the place to unburden yourself. On the other hand, a friendly sports team rivalry or light hearted debate is always fulfilling. That said- Go Lakers!

You can contact Valari at valari@valari.com.

Social Networking has Taken the Place of Databases, Carla–You old Fuddy-Duddy…..

I know. You just love social networking. You could spend hours on it (in fact, you do). You go to all those classes on social networking, and, by golly, you know more about it than your manager. Don’t get too cocky yet. There are two problems you’re creating for yourself by relying on social networking:

1. You are probably spending too much time at your computer and not enough time neeting real people and forming relationships. Remember, buying a home is not like buying a set of knives. You’ll have to work hard to establish a trusting relationship. Most of us aren’t good enough at writing to do that without finally meeting someone.

2. You are not gathering your future goldmine–your database full of people who are going to love you and what you do.

Who do you ‘Own’?

Here’s the problem with relying on the social networking sites to keep track of your potential clients. You don’t own them. The social networking site could go out of business. It could start charging you. It could sell your contacts.  That’s why you need to ‘own’ those contacts in your own database. Now, you can create a marketing plan. You can communicate with those people on a schedule.

Start and Populate your Database Intensely

You’re a newer agent. You want to make money fast. You want to establish a solid long-term career. Become a ‘database freak’ so that you can remember all those wonderful people you met. Lead generation is the most important part of the sales business. Doing a lot of it assures high income. That means tracking all those people you meet. It takes more than one communication to create a loyal client.

New Agent Key to Success: Right Priorities

Those of you who have used Up and Running in 30 Days to start your careers know that I have worked hard to prioritize your business for you so that you are successful quickly, and gain business management habits for life. I’ve prioritized types of business, best sources of leads, and all the activities you’ll do to get started quickly. I want you to prioritize your technology activities, too. Remember, you’re a salesperson.

Become that database freak and see your business develop quickly.